The Pittsburgh Penguins have added several new players during the offseason, including Connor Clifton. The team acquired Clifton along with the 39th pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft from the Buffalo Sabres, trading away Conner Timmins and Isaac Veribaud in return.
Clifton is expected to be a strong addition to the Penguins’ defensive lineup. At 30 years old, he is known as a reliable shutdown defender—an asset Pittsburgh currently needs. Given the Penguins’ current roster, Clifton is likely to secure a spot on the bottom defensive pairing. His defensive-first approach also makes him a prime candidate for the team’s penalty kill.
Last season with the Sabres, Clifton tallied one goal, 16 points, and an impressive 208 hits. This marked the third consecutive year he recorded over 200 hits, showcasing his physically impactful style of play. The Penguins’ defense could benefit from this kind of physicality, which Clifton is sure to bring.
Clifton has also shown some offensive ability during his time with the Boston Bruins. In the 2022-23 season, he notched five goals, 18 assists, 23 points, and a plus-20 rating. Although the Penguins didn’t primarily acquire him for offensive contributions, his 2022-23 performance indicates that he can provide some scoring support when needed.
Overall, this might be a modest move for the Penguins, but there is a lot to appreciate about adding Clifton. He can add much-needed stability to the Penguins’ blue line and his veteran presence could help mentor younger players. It will be intriguing to see the level of impact he has with Pittsburgh in the 2025-26 season.
Fan Take: This acquisition shows the Penguins’ commitment to strengthening their defense with experienced, physical players, which is crucial in today’s fast-paced NHL. Clifton’s blend of physicality and steady defensive play could make a significant difference in close games and help inspire confidence in the team’s younger core.
