Aston-Reese emerging as Penguins' next unheralded contributor

Last season, it was Jake Guentzel and Conor Sheary who seemed to come out of nowhere to make a big impact for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Now, it appears it's Zach Aston-Reese's turn.

Recently recalled from the AHL, the 23-year-old undrafted forward was placed on a line with Sheary and Sidney Crosby, and has made good on the opportunity with three goals in his past three games, including this one scored Saturday against Toronto:

Aston-Reese signed an entry-level deal with the Penguins 11 months ago after a stellar season at Northeastern University in which he recorded 31 goals and 32 assists in 38 games and was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award.

He kicked off his pro career with 12 goals and 37 points through 51 AHL games before getting the call from the Penguins, and if Pittsburgh is going to make good on its aspirations for a three-peat, don't be surprised if Aston-Reese has something to do with it.