Ex-Penguins Update: Nathan Légaré Makes it to the Show
As I pondered compiling a standard Ex-Penguins update this morning, I stumbled upon a bit of news concerning a former black-and-gold prospect and immediately decided to make him my feature story instead.
Nathan Légaré made his NHL debut last night with the Devils.
I confess to being shocked, albeit in the most pleasant way.
The gritty 23-year old forward is one of a handful of players I occasionally keep tabs on. Unfortunately, in Nathan’s case, at least stats-wise, the news wasn’t very encouraging.
Although he possesses a wicked wrist shot that once produced a pair of goals in rapid succession during an exhibition game against the CBJ, the former Quebec Hockey League scoring ace had struggled to produce at the pro level.
Following a dynamic finish to his junior career that saw him light the lamp 14 times in 15 playoff games for Val d’ Or, Légaré managed just 15 goals in 125 games spread over two seasons with the Baby Pens.
Dealt to his hometown Canadiens as part of the Erik Karlsson blockbuster, I’d hoped Légaré might break out and fulfill his promise.