Pittsburgh Penguins Acquire Emil Bemstrom from Columbus Blue Jackets in Exchange for Alex Nylander

The Pittsburgh Penguins have made a significant move, acquiring forward Emil Bemstrom from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a recent trade deal. The trade involved sending forward Alex Nylander and a conditional 2026 sixth-round draft pick to the Blue Jackets in exchange for Bemstrom. The announcement was made by the Penguins’ President of Hockey Operations and General Manager, Kyle Dubas.

Emil Bemstrom, a 24-year-old forward, is signed through the current 2023-24 season with an average annual value of $900,000 at the NHL level. Bemstrom has showcased his skills during this season, dividing his time between the Blue Jackets and their AHL affiliate, the Cleveland Monsters. In 32 games with Columbus, he recorded five goals, six assists, and 11 points, while tallying 10 goals, four assists, and 14 points in eight games with Cleveland.

Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 195 pounds, Bemstrom has spent five seasons in the NHL, all with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Throughout his career, he has played 204 regular-season games, collecting 31 goals, 38 assists, and 69 points. His most impressive season was in 2022-23 when he achieved career highs in assists with 15 and points with 22 in 55 games. Additionally, Bemstrom has five games of Stanley Cup Playoff experience, all from 2020.

Originating from Nykoping, Sweden, Bemstrom has represented his country on the international stage, notably at the 2022 World Championship and the 2019 World Junior Championship where he showcased his skills. His performance at the 2022 World Championship included one goal, four assists, and five points in eight games, highlighting his versatility as a player.

Emil Bemstrom was initially drafted by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the fourth round, with the 117th overall pick, during the 2017 NHL Draft. With his experience, skill set, and international representation, Bemstrom brings a diverse and valuable perspective to the Pittsburgh Penguins, solidifying their roster as they aim for success in the NHL.