Pensburgh Top 25 Under 25: Joona Vaisanen
Pensburgh top 25 under 25 Jonah Vicin. Imagine being a young hockey player overlooked in the draft at just 18 years old only to rise through the ranks and become a national champion by the time you’re 20. This is the incredible story of Yona Vicin, the newest sensation in the Penguins organization and our 19th ranked player in the Pensburg top 25 under 25 countdown. But here’s where it gets interesting. Vicisonin’s journey is a testament to the fact that success in hockey is not just about physical prowess, but also about intelligence, competitiveness, and a willingness to learn. As we delve into Visonin’s story, you’ll discover how he’s defied expectations and proven himself to be a valuable asset to the Penguins. To catch up on the previous entries in our countdown, be sure to check out our articles on the graduates and departed players, the best of the rest, and our profiles on Quinn Boschain, Cruz Lucius, Travis Hayes, Brady Pedal, Finn Harding, and Sam Puland. Now, let’s dive into Vicisonin’s remarkable story. At just 21 years old, Vicein has already made a name for himself in the hockey world. Born on July 29th, 2004, he was acquired by the Penguins in the 2024 NHL draft. in the sixth round with the 175th pick. Standing at 6’0 and weighing 176 pounds, Vicinin may not be the biggest or most physical player, but he’s got a lot of heart and a keen understanding of the game. As Dre Spetsza, the Penguins assistant general manager, noted, “Visonin’s hockey IQ is one of his strongest assets. It’s something that I value and we value as an organization at a very high level. Spettza said with Vicein, it was having lots of volume and trusting that over time we’ve watched him enough that we’re confident in our evaluation of him and that we feel he’s going to get better as he continues to climb. But what really sets Vicein apart is his sneaky competitiveness. Spettza calls him a sneaky competitive player, saying, “It’s probably not a word you’d use by just watching him, but it was one of the big draws to us as a prospect is just how competitive he is, and he pays attention to the details.” Vicin’s competitiveness has served him well, particularly in his time at Western Michigan, where he played a crucial role in the team’s national championship win. He even scored a huge overtime goal, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure. As a result of his impressive performance, Vicisonin was named a team captain at the Penguins prospect camp, where he continued to impress, earning praise from Tom Costouolis, the team’s director of player development. So, what’s next for Vicisonin? As he heads into another year of college, he’s focused on getting stronger and adding weight, which will be essential in helping him win more puck battles and become a more solid defensive player. As he told the trib, “I’m just trying to get stronger and add some weight. I think it’s going to be a big part of my game, getting out of those corners and winning more puck battles.” Vicedin’s journey is a reminder that success in hockey is not just about individual talent, but also about hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn. As he continues to grow and develop, it will be exciting to see what the future holds for this talented young player. And this is the part that will spark some debate. Do you think Vicinin has what it takes to make it to the top level, or will he plateau in the college ranks? Let us know in the comments. One thing is certain though. Vicisonin’s story is an inspiration to any young hockey player who’s been overlooked or underestimated. With his intelligence, competitiveness, and determination, he’s proven that with hard work, and perseverance, anything is possible. Penguins prospect Sam Puland. Can he revive his NHL dreams? Pensburgh top 25, under 25, number 20. When it comes to the world of hockey, the journey of a firstround draft pick can be a roller coaster ride filled with highs and lows. Today, we delve into the story of Sam Puland, who finds himself at the number 20 spot in our Pensburg top 25, under 25 countdown for 2025. This ranking serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by young athletes in the competitive landscape of professional sports. To catch up on the previous entries in this year’s countdown, you can explore the following links: graduates and departed players in 2025. httpst2447244760 pensburg-25-graduates and departed players/www.pensburg.com-25-7-24476- pensburg.com-25-7-24476-top25 under25 best of rest Penguins top prospects Charlie Treaway Daniel Latch Ryan Miller Number 25 Quinn Bane/244743-244743-pensber-25- no 25 Quinn Boschain 24 Cruz Lucius https www.pensber.com pensburg.com/2025 under25 no 24 Cruz Lucius Penguins NHLN NCAA prospects number 23 Travis Hayes https www.pensber.com/2025 no23 Travis Hayes number 22 Brady Pedal https www.pensber.com/www.pensber.com pens.com/20257371 Pensburgh.25 under25 no22 Brady Pedal Penguins NHL hockey slash number 21 Finn Harding/202578013 Pensburg.25 25 under 25 no 21 Finn Harding spotlight on Sam Puland left-wing 2024 ranking 8th age 24 February 25th 2001 drafted 2019 NHL draft round one pick 21 height weight 6’1 in 213 lbs in the past season there were some bright spots for Puland as he achieved personal bests with 19 goals, 24 assists. And however, it’s important to note that these statistics were not recorded in the NHL where he only managed to participate in seven games primarily between November 13th and 23. During that brief stint, he struggled to make an impact, registering just two shots on goal, neither of which found the net, and contributing a single assist while averaging around 10 minutes of ice time per game. After this experience, he returned to the AHL until the final game of the season. As Pulin approaches the end of his eligibility for the Pensburg top 25 under 25 list, it’s worth considering whether this ranking comes a year too late. In October 2024, he cleared waiverss and with the Penguins signing new forwards like Anthony Mantha and Justin Brezo, he faces stiff competition for a spot on the roster. The team is already well stocked with lower line options including Kevin Hayes, Blake Lazot, Nol Achiari, Danton Heinan, Phil Thomasino, and Connor Der. This situation puts Pulin in a precarious position as he grapples with both the numbers game and a stagnation in his development over recent years. Several factors may have contributed to this stagnation, creating a perfect storm of challenges. The global pandemic disrupted crucial developmental years shortly after his draft, and he has also faced injuries and mental health issues that have impacted his performance. Additionally, concerns about his skating and pace have lingered since before he was drafted, and he has not made the necessary advancements in these areas to compete at an NHL level. While he has shown the potential to be a strong AHL player, the gap between being good and being elite is razor thin. And it’s this distinction that often determines who makes it to the NHL and who does not. As we reflect on Puland’s journey, it’s clear that he has organizational value and could be called up to the NHL in the event of injuries. However, it seems unlikely that he will make a significant impact beyond serving as a reliable AHL player or a temporary fillin at the NHL level. Furthermore, unless he plays 67 NHL regular season games this season, he will become a group 6 unrestricted free agent, which could signal the end of his time with the Penguins organization within the next 10 months, whether through a waiver claim, trade, or free agency. This scenario is not uncommon for mid to late first round picks. While they often start with great promise, there is no guarantee that they will make a lasting impact in the NHL. Puland’s situation is particularly poignant as he was one of the few first round selections the Penguins retained between 2015 and 2023, a period during which the team desperately needed to inject young talent into its roster. Ironically, a player the Penguins could have selected instead of Puland was Phil Thomasino, who they later acquired for a fourthround pick. In just over half a season, Thomasino managed to score nearly as many goals 11 for the Penguins as Puland has NHL games played 13, providing a glimmer of hope from the 2019 draft class. While this may serve as a silver lining, Puland must have an outstanding training camp to remain relevant in the NHL this season with competition from players like Philip Hallander, Boo Imama, and Yuna Copenin for lower line winger positions. Pulin will need to carve out a niche for himself. It would be surprising if he were able to exceed expectations and secure a more prominent Penguin’s prospect breakdown. Finn Harding, top 25 under 25. Hensburg’s top 25 under 25. Spotlight on Finn Harding at number 21. Kicking off the countdown with a twist. The 2025 edition of our Pensburg Top 25 under 25 series begins with a focus on Finn Harding, a player who emerged from a challenging college season and is part of the Jake Gwensel trade. This countdown is not just a list. It’s a journey through the promising future of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Stay updated with our previous entries this year. Graduates and departed players in 2025. https www.pensburg.com/2025/2447260 pensburg.25 under25 graduates and departed players in 2025. www.pensburg.com/2025/top25 under25 Best of REST Charlie Trethoy Daniel Latch Ryan Miller Noi www.pensburg.com/2025/2447352 Pensburg top 25 under25 no bus die 24 Cruz Lucius at www.pensburg.com pensburg.com/2025728/24474/Pensburg top 25 under25 no24 Cruz Lucius Penguins NHL NCAA prospects number 23 Travis Hayes at www.pensber.com/2025729/25 pensburg.com/2025729/25 Travis Hayes with references to pensburg.com/2025 under25 no22 Brady Pedal/www.pensber.com/2025/730244771 pensburg.com/2025730244771 pensburg.com/2022 Brady Pedal Penguins NHL hockey 2024 ranking age 20 born March 2nd 2005 acquisition method selected as the seventh round draft pick number 223 overall in the 2024 NHL draft physical stats height 6’2 in weight 192 lb the 2020 24 draft was notably defenseoriented with four out of six selections focusing on bolstering the back end, including Finn Harding, who stands out as one of the few overage players chosen that year. Harding honed his skills in junior hockey with Missaga and Bmpton, consistently elevating his offensive output each season. This upward trend in his performance is particularly promising, especially since concerns about his puck handling abilities were prevalent at the time of his draft. Insights from elite prospects. His junior career has shown a positive trajectory in point production, which is crucial as scouts had previously raised doubts about his potential as a puck mover at higher levels. Expert opinions. Corey Prawnman from The Athletic noted, “Harding skates well and makes a lot of stops in the OHL. His puck play is adequate in junior and while he can execute a first pass, there are uncertainties about his effectiveness with the puck against more experienced players. According to Dober Hockey, Harding is another overage defenseman added to the Penguins prospect pool. Unlike some of his peers, he is just 19 and one year removed for this typical draft year. He is primarily a defense first player with a strong skating stride. While he may not be flashy with the puck, he consistently makes reliable plays to set up his teammates. Harding acknowledges that he started his OHL career later than most, which may have contributed to his development timeline. This late start could be viewed positively as his 34 points in 68 OHL games become more impressive when considering his late blooming status. However, he must become more proactive on the ice, particularly in transition, where he tends to wait for plays to develop rather than initiating them himself. Harding has shown a strong work ethic in refining his game, a fact recognized by Tom Costoulos, the Penguins director of player development. During the recent prospect camp, Costas remarked, “He absorbs everything we teach him.” Throughout his time in Bmpton, he was placed in various roles, including penalty killing and power play situations. During the holiday season, while others were at the World Junior Championship, he was logging 30 minutes a night and thriving. His growth is evident, especially in skating, which continues to improve. He is eager to learn how to defend consistently and move the puck effectively. There’s some offensive potential there, making for exciting times ahead. The reality of a seventh round pick. When discussing a seventhround draft pick, it’s essential to recognize the long odds of reaching the NHL, let alone becoming a regular player. While Harding’s progress is encouraging, it’s crucial to maintain realistic expectations. His defensive skills will need to shine to secure a spot in the NHL, especially given concerns about his skating and playmaking abilities. Looking ahead, expectations for Harding are likely higher now than they were at the time of his selection. Currently, the Penguins have established defenseman like Chris Leang and Eric Carlson, but neither is expected to remain in Pittsburgh for the long term. Harrison Brunicki is the top defensive prospect, particularly on the right side. But Harding is making a case for himself as a valuable addition to the prospect pool. Having played only three games in the ECHL thus far, this upcoming season will be a significant test for Harding as he transitions to professional hockey full-time. His performance and development will be critical in determining whether he evolves into a legitimate NHL prospect or remains a typical seventh round pick filling out a minor league roster.
00:00 – Pensburgh Top 25 Under 25: Joona Vaisanen
04:22 – Penguins’ Prospect Sam Poulin: Can He Revive His NHL Dreams? | Pensburgh Top 25 Under 25 #trump 11:12 – Penguins Prospect Breakdown: Finn Harding (Top 25 Under 25)
1. Pensburgh Top 25 Under 25: Joona Vaisanen
The Pittsburgh Penguins’ newest national champion, defenseman Joona Vaisanen, is ranked #19 in our Top 25 Under 25 countdown.
Vaisanen was drafted in the 6th round of the 2024 NHL Draft and has been making waves with his hockey IQ and competitive play.
After winning the national championship at Western Michigan, Vaisanen is looking to build on his success and continue to grow as a player.
With his dependable and all-around solid play, Vaisanen has the potential to be a key piece in the Penguins’ future.
2. Penguins’ Prospect Sam Poulin: Can He Revive His NHL Dreams? | Pensburgh Top 25 Under 25 #trump
Sam Poulin, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2019 first-round pick, faces a crucial training camp.
After a stagnant development, Poulin must outperform competitors like Filip Hallander, Boko Imama, and Joona Koppanen to stay relevant in the NHL.
Will he overcome his limitations in skating and pace to secure a spot?
Watch to understand Poulin’s:
– Career highs in the American Hockey League (AHL)
– Limited NHL appearances and the challenges ahead
– Uncertain future with the Penguins, including potential waiver claim, trade, or free agency
– Comparison to Phil Tomasino, a successful pickup by the Pens
**Subscribe for more Penguins analysis and prospect updates!**
3. Penguins Prospect Breakdown: Finn Harding (Top 25 Under 25)
Dive into the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2025 Top 25 Under 25 countdown as we analyze Finn Harding, the 7th-round draft pick and emerging defenseman. Explore his junior career stats, scouting reports, and potential as a future NHL prospect. Learn why his defensive skills and development trajectory make him a player to watch in Pittsburgh’s prospect pool.
Key topics covered:
– Harding’s 34-point OHL season as a late bloomer
– Scouting insights on his skating, puck-moving, and defensive reliability
– Quotes from Penguins’ player development director Tom Kostopoulos
– How he fits into Pittsburgh’s defensive depth pipeline
– Challenges and expectations for his ECHL season ahead
