Pittsburgh Penguins fans, there's some intriguing news on the prospect front. Cruz Lucius, a promising forward, has decided not to ink a deal with the Penguins and will hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent on August 15th. This revelation comes straight from Penguins GM Kyle Dubas during his appearance on the GM Show on the Penguins Radio Network.
Lucius, at 21, showcased his skills with the Arizona State Sun Devils last season, racking up 15 goals and 46 points over 36 games. The Penguins brought him into their fold from the Carolina Hurricanes back in the 2023-24 season, as part of the trade involving Jake Guentzel.
Dubas expressed confidence in the opportunity the Penguins offered Lucius, emphasizing the team's strong development track record. However, he acknowledged that players have the right to chart their own paths, and the Penguins' current stature means they don't need to plead for commitments.
Originally drafted by the Hurricanes in the fourth round of the 2022 NHL Draft, Lucius has an interesting backstory. His brother, Chaz, a former first-round pick by the Winnipeg Jets, retired in 2025 due to Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
Lucius honed his skills at the U.S. National Team Development Program before starting his collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin in 2022. Over two seasons with the Badgers, he tallied 24 goals and 68 points in 70 games, before making the move to Arizona State in 2024.
Despite battling injuries during the 2024-25 season, Lucius bounced back impressively as a senior, leading his team in all offensive categories. Now, as a four-year college UFA, he has the freedom to choose his next destination. There's also the possibility that the Penguins might trade him before he officially becomes a free agent.
Keep an eye on this developing story, as Lucius' decision could have ripple effects throughout the league.