Today, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Kyle Dubas disclosed that the Pittsburgh Penguins have officially secured forward Brayden Yager with a three-year, entry-level agreement.

Yager, who was chosen by the Penguins as the 14th pick in the 2023 NHL Draft, has been playing for the Moose Jaw Warriors of the Western Hockey League for the past four seasons. The 19-year-old forward had an outstanding season, achieving career-high numbers in various categories. He ranked second on his team with 60 assists, while also placing third in goals (35) and points (95). During the playoffs, Yager showcased his skills by securing a spot in the top four among all WHL players. He scored 11 goals (ranking third), assisted in 16 goals (ranking fourth), and earned a total of 27 points (ranking third) in 20 playoff games on the path to winning the WHL Championship. In the Memorial Cup, his impressive performance led to being named to the tournament’s All-Star Team after contributing six points (3G-3A) in four games. Yager’s exceptional sportsmanship was recognized by being awarded the CHL’s Sportsman of the Year in the 2023-24 season.

Yager has been a standout player in the WHL since his debut in the 2020-21 season. As a 15-year old, he played in all 24 games for the Warriors and has continued to impress ever since. With 104 goals, 146 assists, and 250 points in 211 career WHL games, Yager has proven himself to be a valuable asset to his team. In addition, he has contributed 50 points (20 goals, 30 assists) in 40 playoff games. Yager’s success on the ice has earned him several accolades, including being named the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player in both 2023 and 2024. He was also recognized as the Rookie of the Year by both the CHL and WHL in the 2021-22 season. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, Yager is a force to be reckoned with as a forward.

In the 2024 World Junior Championship, the talented player hailing from Saskatoon, SK showcased his skills while proudly representing his home country. Amongst the players on Team Canada, he stood out by securing an impressive second place, accumulating a total of five points (2 goals and 3 assists) throughout the five games played.