Swedish defenseman Marcus Pettersson will remain with the Pittsburgh Penguins for years to come. The team announced on Tuesday that they have inked Pettersson to a five-year extension.
According to the details of the deal, Pettersson will earn $20.1 million over the course of the deal, banking just above $4 million annually. This contract keeps him with the organization through the 2024/25 NHL season.
Pettersson joined the Penguins from Anaheim Ducks in a trade that saw Daniel Sprong head in the opposite direction. Since then, the 23-year-old played 107 games with Pittsburgh and contributed with 34 points. This season he also ranks fourth on the roster in hits with 78 and blocked shots with 57.
“In just over a year, Marcus has had a significant impact on our defensive group,” said Pittsburgh general manager Jim Rutherford. “He is young, reliable, and smart, which is important in today’s game. Marcus is part of our young core, and it was important to get him signed long-term.”
Marcus Pettersson was 38th overall pick in 2014 by the Ducks, but remained playing in native Sweden until 2017. He made his NHL debut with Anaheim in 2018 and played 22 games during the 2017/18 season, scoring one goal with three assists.
Since he was traded midway through last season, Pettersson managed to become just 11th NHL player since 1994 to play 84 games in a single regular season.
