Quoting: Ragsandbluesfan
Riikola would be next up
I don’t think. I think P-O-Joseph is up next if a full-time spot opens up.
Pens new assistant coach was P-O-Joseph coach last year and loved him, played him in every situation, PP and PK, played him over 25 minutes a game and said he’s was NHL ready last year and could have played NHL minutes last year. He got hired as Pens assistant coach this year.
And P-O-Joseph has gained 20 pounds of muscle since he’s been with the Pens. Gone from 6’3 168 pounds to 6’3 185 pounds, solid. The organization loves him too. He’s ready!!
https://lastwordonsports.com/hockey/2019/08/28/pittsburgh-penguins-prospects-2/
Excellent pivots and edgework allow him to cover 360 degrees of ice. He keeps himself in front of attackers and maintains good gap control with his smooth skating and his lateral agility. Joseph can also use his agility to walk the line in the offensive zone and to open up shooting and passing lanes. Joseph has bulked up since his draft year, adding over 20 pounds in the last two years. He is strong on the puck and wins more battles in the corners and in front of the net as a result. There is probably a bit more room to add muscle to his lanky frame. How much is necessary will be seen as he tests himself against professional opponents again this year.
https://www.nhl.com/player/pierre-olivier-joseph-8480058[/quote]
“He could have played games this year in certain situations,” he said. “No doubt, he could play games next year“
https://pittsburghhockeynow.com/exclusive-coach-raves-about-joseph-he-could-play-in-nhl-next-year-pittsburgh-penguins/
This article also says he’s gained weight. And keeps gaining and growing. Mentally too.
“At 6-foot-2, 162 pounds, Joseph was slight, but he is incredibly fast and has good vision. Joseph gained weight, mostly muscle for his first pro season, and kept growing, mentally, too”.
Joseph “WAS” slight.