Pittsburgh Penguins‘ 7th year defenseman Cameron Gaunce(24) is making the most of a first NHL recall in a couple seasons.
Through 3 games he already has a pair of assists and is getting himself very situated in game play with 4 hits, a pair of play breakups and takeaways, four minutes of penalties, twice skating 15+ minutes of ice time with a+3 rating and all three appearances were in decisive victories.
He was signed quickly on the first day of unrestricted free agency to a one-year two-way contract.
In 39 AHL games with affiliate Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins he scored 2 goals and 6 assists with a +6 rating.
He set new career high 35 assists and 37 points in 75 games last season with Portland Pirates, while under contract to Florida Panthers.
The decently sized d-man also won a 2014 Calder Cup Championship with Texas Stars, while on the books with Dallas Stars.
He also played 9 games with them in 2013/2014.
The 26-year old may have found himself a solid home in Pennsylvania for the time being.
Cameron Gaunce(24) Lake Erie Monsters
Colorado Avalanche 2nd round pick in the 2008 draft (#50 overall) defenseman Cameron Gaunce(24) is in the final season of his three-year entry level deal.
He played in 11 NHL games in his rookie campaign scoring a goal but that was the only crack at the show he’s received thus far.
Maybe he will get another recall in this shortened lockout season before his contract is up but it’s looking a bit doubtful.
The 6’1″ 203 lbs. stocky d-man produced career highs for minor league affiliate Lake Erie Monsters in his sophomore season with 75 AHL games played, 6 goals, 21 assists, 27 points and a +17 rating.
He’s far off the mark in the current campaign with only a goal and 1o assists in 52 contests and looks to end up with lows in all categories.
It’s a wonder if the Avalanche will give the still young 22-year old a qualifying offer as a restricted free agent for a fourth season in the system and simply look at 2012/2013 as a one where he lost some footing in his game but still has the potential to regain it.