Kamloops native John Ludvig speaks to Pittsburgh media on Oct. 10, 2023. (Photo via Pittsburgh Penguins)
Kamloops hockey product John Ludvig is the newest member of the Pittsburgh Penguins.
The Penguins claimed the 23-year-old defenceman off waivers from the Florida Panthers yesterday.
“Bit of an emotional roller coaster, you think you’re getting sent down put on waivers,” Ludvig said during a media availability Tuesday.
“You don’t really know what’s happening. I’m driving to Charlotte to the minors and I get a call and I [find out] I’m coming here. I’m super excited about it.”
The six-foot-one Ludvig is signed through the 2024-25 season. His contract carries an average annual value of US$775,000 at the NHL level.
“We talked [about what his role with the Penguins would be],” Ludvig added. “They liked my game. “I bring a hard defensive style game and its something I think they said this team needs and that’s what I’m looking to bring here.”
“I’ve heard nothing but great things about this organization. I know there are a lot of really good vets I can learn from this year on this team.”
#Kamloops product John Ludvig speaks to media in Pittsburgh after he was claimed off waivers by the Penguins over the weekend. https://t.co/iDSrdemek3
— RadioNLNews (@RadioNLNews) October 10, 2023
Ludvig missed most of the 2021-22 season to injury. He had three goals and 14 assists in 54 games with the Charlotte Checkers in the 2022-23 AHL season.
He has yet to make his NHL debut, but is on the Penguins opening night roster for the 2023-24 season as one of eight defencemen.
“It’s part of the business every year coming into camp,” Ludvig said. “You try and put your best foot forward and make the team you’re there with, but you know things happen and getting picked up here was a blessing for sure.”
Lucky #7. pic.twitter.com/p6rvh75bH6
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) October 9, 2023
