Pittsburgh Penguins Set to Sign Und Dakota Standout Jake Livanavage

The Pittsburgh Penguins are continuing to strengthen their defensive pipeline, reportedly moving to sign undrafted standout Jake Livanavage. Coming off a dominant tenure at the University of North Dakota, Livanavage represents the type of “diamond in the rough” the Penguins are targeting as they maintain their competitive edge after clinching a playoff berth [1].

From Undrafted to NHL Prospect

Jake Livanavage’s journey to the NHL is a testament to persistence and development. Despite being overlooked in the NHL Draft, the Gilbert, Arizona native carved out a reputation as one of the most reliable and impactful blue liners in college hockey [4].

Standing 5-foot-10 and weighing 185 pounds, Livanavage doesn’t possess prototypical NHL size, but he compensates with elite skating and high-level hockey IQ. Scouting reports describe him as a puck-moving defenseman and power-play specialist who excels at probing for offensive opportunities and improving the condition of the play before distributing the puck [3].

A Decorated Career at North Dakota

Livanavage’s time with the Fighting Hawks was marked by consistent production and an ever-increasing workload. Over 117 games, he recorded 14 goals and 82 points, maintaining a streak of at least 25 points in every single season of his college career [4].

Year-by-Year Progression

• Freshman Season (2023–24): Recorded 5 goals and 24 assists (29 points) in 40 games, earning a spot on the All-NCHC Rookie Team [2].
• Sophomore Season (2024–25): Posted 4 goals and 24 assists in 38 games. He led the team in ice time, averaging 24 minutes and 54 seconds per game, and was named an AHCA West Second Team All-American [2].
• Junior Season (2025–26): Earned first-team all-NCHC honors and was a finalist for both the NCHC Offensive Defenseman of the Year and Defensive Defenseman of the Year [4].

Beyond the NCAA, Livanavage proved his capability on the international stage, representing the U.S. Collegiate Selects at the Spengler Cup in Davos, Switzerland, where the team finished in second place [4].

What Livanavage Brings to Pittsburgh

The Penguins are acquiring a versatile defenseman who can impact the game at both ends of the ice. His ability to activate on the weak side and his precision on the power play make him a valuable asset for a team looking to inject youth and mobility into its defensive corps.

Looking Ahead

Livanavage’s transition to professional hockey comes at a pivotal time for the Penguins. As the organization prepares for the postseason, adding a high-ceiling talent like Livanavage ensures that the team is not only focused on the immediate playoffs but likewise on long-term sustainability. With his combination of offensive instincts and defensive reliability, Livanavage is poised to challenge for a spot in the Penguins’ system.