Bemstrom Traded to Penguins by Blue Jackets
Forward Emil Bemstrom has been traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins by the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for forward Alex Nylander and a conditional draft pick.
Bemstrom Joins Penguins
In a trade deal on Thursday, the Columbus Blue Jackets sent forward Emil Bemstrom to the Pittsburgh Penguins. In return, the Blue Jackets acquired forward Alex Nylander and a conditional sixth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Bemstrom, who has recorded 11 points in 32 games this season, was drafted by Columbus in the fourth round of the 2017 NHL Draft. Throughout his career, the 24-year-old forward has accumulated 69 points in 204 regular-season games, with 31 goals and 38 assists. He has yet to score any points in five Stanley Cup Playoff games.
Penguins coach Mike Sullivan expressed optimism about Bemstrom's abilities, highlighting his previous achievements in the league. Sullivan stated that Bemstrom's goal-scoring track record, which includes a rookie season with 10-plus goals, makes him a potentially valuable addition to the team.
Nylander Moves to Blue Jackets
As part of the trade, forward Alex Nylander will be joining the Columbus Blue Jackets. Nylander, who has spent the majority of this season in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton team, has accumulated 32 points, including 17 goals and 15 assists, in 43 AHL games.
The 25-year-old Nylander has also played five NHL games throughout his career, recording no points. He was initially selected by the Buffalo Sabres with the eighth overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft. In 98 regular-season games for the Sabres, Chicago Blackhawks, and Penguins, Nylander has amassed 34 points, with 14 goals and 20 assists. He has appeared in eight playoff games but has yet to score any points.
The Blue Jackets are hopeful that Nylander's offensive capabilities will contribute to their team as they aim to improve their position in the Eastern Conference standings.
Team Standings
The Pittsburgh Penguins currently hold a record of 25 wins, 21 losses, and 8 overtime losses, placing them seven points behind the Tampa Bay Lightning for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
On the other hand, the Columbus Blue Jackets find themselves in last place in the Eastern Conference. With a record of 18 wins, 27 losses, and 10 overtime losses, the Blue Jackets will be looking to make changes to turn their season around.
