Penguins Lose Enforcer John Ludvig on Waivers

The Pittsburgh Penguins picked up tough-guy defenseman John Ludvig at the beginning of last season on a waiver claim from the Florida Panthers. He played 33 games for the Pens, and made his mark with his physical game.

The Pens tried to sneak him through waivers on Friday, but he's been claimed by the Colorado Avalanche.

Colorado claims John Ludvig off waivers from Pittsburgh.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 5, 2024

He's recovered from wrist surgery which he underwent in May after the end of last season.

The Avalanche have plenty of blueliners in camp, but some simply have not made their mark to lock down a spot on the team, notably Erik Brannstrom and Oliver Kylington. It's possible that Ludvig could be the physical presence that Colorado is looking for on the 3rd pairing.

The 24-year-old d-man certainly made his mark in the short time he was in Pittsburgh, by getting into five fights and handing out 72 hits.

John Ludvig just demolished Dante Fabbro. pic.twitter.com/baLmA0yPnH
— Danny Shirey (@DannyShireyPGH) November 29, 2023

John Ludvig has been one of Dubas’ sneaky great pickups. he claimed him off waivers right before the season started.

he has been the sandpaper the Pens have desperately needed for years. not afraid to lay hits or drop the gloves. i love it pic.twitter.com/uEbvwe7zG3
— ryan 🛸 (@OTCellyy) November 29, 2023

Ludvig was a third-round pick in 2019 by the Florida Panthers but never made his way to the NHL until the Penguins claimed him one year ago, on Oct. 9th from Florida.

It's likely he'll now open the season on Colorado's roster.