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Penguins Extend Tommy Novak to Three-Year Contract

The deal secures a versatile middle-six forward at $4.65 million a year, giving Pittsburgh short-term roster stability as it balances veteran stars with younger talent.

Apr 5, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Tommy Novak (18) shoots the puck against the Florida Panthers during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Alberti-Imagn Images
Apr 5, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Tommy Novak (18) controls the puck against the Florida Panthers during the first period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Alberti-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The Penguins announced the three-year, $13.95 million extension on July 31, 2026, and the contract begins in 2027-28 and runs through 2029-30.
  • Novak played every game in 2025-26, posting 16 goals and 42 points in 82 games and adding two playoff assists in Pittsburgh’s first-round loss.
  • The club acquired Novak from Nashville at the March 2025 trade deadline and he overcame a stress fracture that limited him in 2024-25 to produce a full-season rebound.
  • Analysts view the $4.65 million average annual value as reasonable in a rising salary-cap environment because Novak can play center or wing and move up and down the lineup.
  • The signing fits GM Kyle Dubas’s short-term bridge strategy to keep useful, affordable pieces while the team manages aging stars and continues to search for a long-term top-line center.