The Penguins announced this afternoon they have re-signed restricted free Brian Dumoulin to a new 2-year deal. The 23-year-old Maine native will carry a cap hit of 800k over the next two seasons. It is a one-way deal, meaning he would have to clear waivers to return to Wilkes-Barre.
As many other writers have noted, the organization, or the Rutherford staff specifically, has really shifted its thinking about the young defenseman, favoring his play over the likes of Scott Harrington. Dumoulin got the call to play in the Pens first round series against the Rangers, and though he looked a little nervous in Game 1, he looked more comfortable with each shift from Game 2 onward.
The organizational change in viewpoint towards Dumoulin coincided with a career year in Wilkes-Barre in 2014-15. He led WBS defensemen in assists (29) and points (33) this past season and was second on the team with a plus-25 rating. His defensive game grew stronger under former coach John Hynes and he seems more comfortable carrying the puck. That comfort level will make him an asset to the Mike Johnston system come the 2015-16 season.
Often overshadowed in the deal that brought him to Pittsburgh and the likes of Maatta and Pouliot ahead of him, Dumoulin is a great player with a winning pedigree. He captured the NCAA Championship in 2012 with Boston College before shifting to the pro game the following season. His game has grown every year in professional hockey and he took a big step forward last season, particularly in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
I think it's a good move for the Penguins. Dumoulin's game has grown exponentially from last summer and after last spring, I'm completely comfortable with him on the 3rd pairing in Pittsburgh. I
think he will continue to grow and become a very solid two-way defenseman. If I had to give a comparison, Id say he could be the next Matty Niskanen. Also, the deal is a steal for the Penguins. It gives them a little wiggle room to create a solid fourth line, especially if Beau Bennett can be re-signed cheap.
Two more years of Dumo, and hey, I'm not complaining...