Acquiring Philip Tomasino from the Nashville Predators in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round draft pick marks a significant move for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The team aims to integrate younger players and enhance competitiveness.
Head Coach Mike Sullivan expressed optimism about Tomasino's potential, stating, “He has a whole lot of potential moving forward... sometimes in a different environment, players can find their respective games and can thrive.” Tomasino was selected as Nashville’s first-round pick in 2019.
Following the trade, Tomasino joined the Penguins directly from New Jersey, where the Predators had faced off against the Devils. Cody Glass, a former teammate of Tomasino in Nashville, reached out to him immediately. “Just starting off as a person, he’s a great guy. He’s young, energetic,” Glass remarked about his friend and former linemate.
Tomasino is staying with Glass and his wife Bailey as he transitions into his new role with Pittsburgh. Expressing gratitude for this support, Tomasino said it was beneficial to have an “awesome guy and awesome teammate” like Glass during this period.
Describing his feelings after joining the Penguins, Tomasino noted, "It's been unique... Just exciting." Reflecting on his past with Nashville and looking forward to playing in Pittsburgh, he added, "I'm really excited... It's a great place to play."
During practice, Tomasino skated alongside Evgeni Malkin. For Tomasino, who admired Malkin growing up as a fan of the Penguins, this was an inspiring moment: “He's a legend... it's kind of crazy to be on a line with him today.”
Sullivan acknowledged that while there is potential for chemistry between Malkin and Tomasino on the ice, only time will tell how effective they are together. He emphasized that putting Tomasino in such a position allows him to play to his strengths.
Reflecting on his transition from Nashville and aspirations with Pittsburgh, Tomasino said he believes everything happens for a reason. His focus remains on contributing positively to his new team: “For me, all I want to focus on is doing all I can to help the team win.”
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