Former Penguins Forward Joining New Team

Earlier this summer, the Pittsburgh Penguins elected not to send forward Emil Bemstrom a qualifying offer. Due to this, he became an unrestricted free agent (UFA) on July 1.

Now, after spending over a month on the market as a UFA, Bemstrom has reportedly found his new home. 

According to Inside AHL Hockey's Tony Androckitis, Bemstrom is signing with SC Bern of the Swiss National League. 

Bemstrom appeared in 14 games this past season for Pittsburgh, where he had zero goals, one assist, 12 hits, and an even plus/minus rating. He spent the majority of the 2024-25 campaign down in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, posting 23 goals, 25 assists, and 48 points in 48 games. 

Bemstrom was acquired by the Penguins from the Columbus Blue Jackets during the 2023-24 season in exchange for Alexander Nylander and a 2026 sixth-round pick. In 24 games with Pittsburgh following the trade in 2023-24, Bemstrom had three goals and five points.

In 242 career NHL games over six seasons split between the Blue Jackets and Penguins, Bemstrom recorded 34 goals, 41 assists, and 75 points. Now, he will look to make a big impact with SC Bern after taking his talents overseas.