Pittsburgh Penguins President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Kyle Dubas announced today that the team has signed Tanner Howe to a three-year, entry-level contract.
Howe was picked 46th overall in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft in Las Vegas.
During the 2023-24 season, Howe played for the Regina Pats in the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he led the team with 28 goals and 49 assists, totaling 77 points.
Howe first gained attention playing alongside current Chicago Blackhawks star Connor Bedard, nearly reaching 90 points in the 2022-23 season. Even after Bedard moved to the NHL, Howe demonstrated his ability as a consistent scoring threat. He is known for his hard work, tenacity along the boards, and a feisty attitude when competing for the puck.
“Howe was a high-end scorer again this year,” said Daily Faceoff prospect analyst Steven Ellis. “He loves to compete, but his skating and smaller frame don’t help. Despite that, Howe battles for pucks and has the energy that can make him more valuable if he isn’t cast into a scoring role.”
The Prince Albert, Saskatchewan native has amassed 92 goals and 141 assists for 233 points in 207 games with the Pats.
Internationally, Howe has represented Canada at the IIHF Men’s Under-18 World Championship in 2022 and 2023, contributing to a bronze medal win last year. He was also a key player in the team that won gold at the 2022 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Howe was the Penguins’ second pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, following Kamloops Blazers defenseman Harrison Brunicke, who was selected 44th overall.
