Defender Emil Pieniniemi, 20, is buzzing around in North America. He has been shelved from the Pittsburgh Penguins’ activities.

The chain of events started at the beginning of October. After training camp, Pieniniemi failed to secure a spot on the AHL team Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. The Finnish defender was dropped to the ECHL team Wheeling Nailers.

However, Pieniniemi never arrived in Wheeling. DKPittsburghSports reports that the defensive prospect stated he would not go to the ECHL. The parties have been trying to find a solution in recent weeks, but none was found. Thus, Pittsburgh shelved him from the team’s activities. This way, Pieniniemi’s player rights remain with the team.

DKPittsburghSports reports that Pieniniemi flew to Finland on his own on Friday.

Last season, Pieniniemi played in the OHL. In 60 junior league games, the defender recorded 10+50=60 points. In the U20 World Championships, he scored 2+1=3 points in six games.

Pittsburgh drafted Pieniniemi in the 3rd round of the 2023 draft.

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