Owen Pickering got a good look at the NHL level in 2024-25, recording three points in 25 games and looks close to being ready for regular duty in Pittsburgh. In the AHL, the 2022 first round pick managed 13 points in 47 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and led blueliners on the team with a +18 plus/minus rating. Though the 6’5″, 201 lbs. blueliner projects as a steady, shutdown d-man with the ability to move the puck up ice, the organization likely hopes Pickering finds another level offensively after a promising rookie season at the the professional level. Expect the 21-year-old to push for a spot in Pittsburgh or log top minutes in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for another season of development.