The Penguins picked their third consecutive defenseman in Saturday's draft when they chose Daniel Laatsch with the 215th overall selection.
Laatsch is a left-handed defenseman who brings size at 6-foot-5 and 183 pounds.
Laatsch played for the Sioux City Musketeers in the USHL last season and recorded two goals, 17 assists in 51 games. He's committed to the University of Wisconsin for next season.
Penguins director of player personnel Chris Pryor called Laatsch an "interesting kid" because he's still adjusting to his size.
"He kind of, I don't wanna say lost his footing," Pryor said. "But some of these guys just kind of get out of sorts at an early age, and these bigger guys just take some time. He went to Sioux City this year, he got on track. He's a good size kid. He knows how to play the game. He just needs time and patience. He's going to Wisconsin, which they're known for developing defensemen. ... Daniel's got big upside there, he's in a good spot, we can just put him there to develop and grow, grow into his body and get all synced up. He knows how to play the game, he's just got to get stronger and mature."
SCOUTS SAY
NHL Central Scouting ranked Laatsch the No. 157 North American skater.
