LAS VEGAS — With their first selection of the NHL Draft, the Penguins chose defenseman Harrison Brunicke No. 44 overall.

Last season with the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League, Brunicke had 21 points (10 goals, 11 assists).

— Kamloops Blazers (@blazerhockey) November 25, 2023

“I’m a two-way defenseman, a guy you can use in all situations,” Brunicke said following his selection at the Sphere entertainment venue. “Whether it’s playing against top (opponents), top lines all game … playing defensive shifts and translating it to offense and hemming (opponents) in their zone.”

A right-handed shot, Brunicke (5-foot-11, 182 pounds) is a native of South Africa who moved to Alberta with his family at a young age.

“It’s amazing,” Brunicke said, “My family back home can be with me here now but I know they’re watching. I’m really proud to be from South Africa, to come from there. Obviously, a big culture shift for us but I’m really happy and excited to get going with the Penguins.”

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