Penguins set to lose rights to two prospects today, unless signed

Nickl, aged 22 was traded to Pittsburgh in March 2023 in exchange for Judd Caulfield. He played 66 games in the ECHL with Wheeling during the 2023-24 season. He also represented Austria at the World Championships.

There were hints in February suggesting that Nickl might be heading back to play in Austria for the 2024-25 season. With his inability to secure a spot on the AHL roster and indications of him leaving North America season as per CapFriendly, his NHL future seems uncertain.

Collins, who is 20 years old was drafted by Pittsburgh in the round of the 2022 draft. He has spent the three seasons with Sudbury (OHL). He is known for his impressive physical attributes at 6'4" and weighing 210 pounds. Since Collins was not selected by the hockey operations staff it remains unclear if he will sign with the Penguins, as a player.

The fact that he has yet to sign a contract to the deadline may not bode well for his prospects. The only players who might be at risk of leaving the Penguins reserve list this year are those two.

According to CapFriendly, Chase Yoder was initially set to expire on August 15th. He has decided to continue playing for Providence for a bonus COVID year of eligibility until 2024 25. As a result since he will not be departing from the NCAA ranks, the Penguins will have time until 2025 to sign him up.

Source: Pensburgh
Penguins set to lose two prospects' exclusive rights today, barring signings