The Pittsburgh Penguins are wasting no time this offseason, and President/GM Kyle Dubas is already making moves to shape the roster for the future. On Thursday, the team locked in two key players—forward Connor Dewar and defenseman Ilya Solovyov—with contract extensions, preventing both from hitting unrestricted free agency.

Dewar, 26, inked a two-year deal worth an average annual value (AAV) of $2.25 million, a well-deserved raise from his previous $1.1 million cap hit. The contract runs through the 2027-28 season, reflecting the team's confidence in his contributions. Coming off a career-best season, Dewar notched 14 goals, 16 assists, and 30 points, while leading the Penguins' forwards with a plus-16 rating. He also added two goals in six playoff appearances, proving his value when the stakes are highest.

Dewar was a cornerstone of the Penguins' fourth line, which provided crucial depth and energy throughout the season. His penalty-killing prowess was equally impressive, helping the unit rank sixth in the NHL—a stat that highlights his two-way reliability and defensive awareness.

As the Penguins look to build on their recent performances, retaining players like Dewar signals a commitment to maintaining a balanced, hard-working lineup. For fans and gear enthusiasts alike, this move underscores the importance of depth players who can step up in big moments—players who embody the grit and determination that define Pittsburgh hockey.