As we enter August, the NHL offseason is winding down as most of this year’s Unlimited Free Agents (UFAs) have already signed with teams. However, some veteran players remain unsigned, including Matt Nieto, a former forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins chose not to re-sign Nieto after his recent stint with the team. During the past season, Nieto played 32 games against Pittsburgh and recorded one goal, two assists, three points, 39 hits, and held a minus-8 rating.
In February, Pittsburgh waived Nieto, and after clearing waivers, he joined their AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. In 15 games there, he tallied three goals, four assists, seven points, and maintained a plus-2 rating. The 2024-25 season was challenging for Nieto, yet there’s still reason for teams to consider inviting him to training camp on a professional tryout (PTO) basis. As a 2011 second-round draft pick, Nieto brings valuable experience and could serve as a reliable bottom-six forward when at his best, potentially adding veteran depth to teams looking to bolster their roster.
Over two seasons and 54 games with Pittsburgh, Nieto amassed two goals, five assists, seven points, 53 hits, and a minus-3 rating.
In another move, the Penguins acquired Tommy Novak from the Nashville Predators through a multiplayer trade. Before the trade, Novak had scored 13 goals, nine assists, 22 points, and held a minus-5 rating in 52 games with Nashville.
Credit Photo: ©Marc Desrosiers-Imagn Images
Fan Take: This update on Matt Nieto highlights the value of experienced role players who can add depth and toughness to a lineup, especially in the grueling NHL season. For hockey fans, seeing veterans like Nieto potentially getting another shot keeps the competitive spirit alive and underscores the ongoing cycle of opportunity within the sport.
