The Pittsburgh Penguins made a trade during their 4-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night, securing forward Emil Bemstrom from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Alex Nylander and a conditional 2026 draft pick. This move adds depth to the Penguins' roster, with Bemstrom, 24, becoming one of the youngest players on the team.

Bemstrom, a restricted free agent signed through the end of this season, will undergo a 28-game audition period to showcase his skills. Known for his goal-scoring prowess in the American Hockey League, Bemstrom's performance in the NHL has been less prominent, with 31 goals in 204 career games, including five in 32 games this season.

The trade also involves an intriguing condition attached to the 2026 draft pick. The Penguins could see the pick upgraded to a third-round selection if Bemstrom manages to score six goals by the end of the season. This provision introduces an element of uncertainty but could potentially yield a valuable pick for the team.

While the trade signifies a modest upgrade in the Penguins' forward depth, the future implications of the deal remain uncertain. Bemstrom's offensive potential presents an opportunity for the team, with the hope that he can contribute more effectively than some of the current bottom-six options.

In light of this trade, the Penguins are taking a calculated risk on Bemstrom's goal-scoring abilities, emphasizing the importance of bolstering their offensive capabilities. The upcoming games will serve as a platform for Bemstrom to prove his worth and potentially secure a spot in the team's long-term plans.