The 4th overall pick in 2016, the Finnish player never quite became the player the Oilers had hoped for. After a few seasons falling short of expectations and a stint in Carolina, Puljujarvi returned to Europe to regain his form.
Since then, things have been going remarkably well for him. He played 13 games with the Penguins' farm team and earned 9 points, which is quite impressive. His efforts have been rewarded as he secured a two-year contract with the organization.
We're talking about a left winger, 6'4" tall and 201 lbs, who was available for free not too long ago and possesses tremendous talent.
If Jesse blossoms with the Penguins, the Habs will regret not acquiring him, as will many other teams in the NHL. Kent Hughes chose to overlook him, even though he fits the exact profile of the kind of player he likes.
Puljujarvi is only 25 years old. It's often said that players with imposing physical attributes like his take more time to develop. He seems to be at his peak now, and I'm eager to see what he'll be able to achieve alongside Sidney Crosby.
POLL | ||
Are you disappointed that Kent Hughes did not take a chance with Puljujarvi? | ||
Yes | 191 | 26.7 % |
No | 524 | 73.3 % |
List of polls |