Prospect Profile: Brian Pinho

Brian Pinho has been apart of the Capitals’ organization for a while, but currently, he is demonstrating how he fits within the system in Hershey. The forward was drafted in the sixth round as the 174th overall pick in the 2013 NHL entry-level draft. The Caps first signed him in 2018; however, he decided to continue playing NCAA hockey and to graduate from Providence College. The 24-year-old was recently re-signed last May to a one-year, two-way contract.

Prior to joining the Bears, Pinho played hockey throughout his four years of college. He averaged 39 games each season, while his season-high was 40 points in the course of his junior year as an alternate captain. During his senior year, he was promoted to captain of the team. He also tallied enough goals to become the second-highest scorer at Providence. His NCAA hockey career consisted of 156 games with 39 goals and 76 assists. Throughout college, the team often depended on Pinho for his defensive skill set as a forward, yet he has been offering that and much more offensively to the Bears’ team.

Pinho played his first professional season with the Bears in 2018-2019. He was in the lineup for 73 regular-season games while recording four goals and eight assists. The rookie also played eight games in the postseason and scored one goal along with a single assist. His most notable goal last season was the overtime goal in game five of the first round of the Calder Cup Playoffs against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, which sent the Bears to the Atlantic Division Final (second round). However, during the season, it was noticeable that he was trying to find his style of play at a professional level and adjust to the transition from college. In other words, he struggled offensively and defensively at the beginning of his rookie season, although he continued to play with determination and focused on developing his game. As a result of his effort, there was some improvement in his play by the closing months of last season, but he and the team aimed for a stronger second season with Hershey.

After having a season to become comfortable in the AHL, Pinho sought to advance his abilities and build some leadership qualities this season. It is crucial that he plays well this season to continue his path into the NHL, especially with his chance in the Capitals organization since his contract is only signed for a year. His play has displayed a substantial difference from last season, and he is currently holding a vital role in the Bear’s offense. He has played in 40 games this season and recorded nine goals and 12 assists. Two of the goals were game-winning goals for the Bears, and one was scored shorthanded. He ranks third in points on the team with 21.

Pinho is utilized as a center or right-wing depending on circumstances, but either way, he has an impact on his line. His skill with the puck and passing benefits the other players on the ice with him, which then leads to goals for the team. He also demonstrates an intelligence about the game and rink that contributes greatly to his offensive and defensive skills. It should be noted that he is currently at a +5 because last season, he often had a difficult time staying out of the negatives. This indicates his defense, which made him stand out in college, is progressing in addition to his offensive production.

Pinho’s growth as a hockey player has been noticed throughout the many years he attended the Caps’ development camp, and he especially captured attention in the most recent Caps’ rookie showcase. He was a top six-forward and was placed on a line with other talented prospects: Connor McMichael and Shane Gersich. They all had a dominant performance, which is an excellent sign as it is a possible future line for the Caps.

The young forward needs to prove his worth this season with the Bears so that the Capitals keep him in their future plans. As of now, he is exhibiting many skills that are pleasing the coaching staff and increases his chance to earn a spot in the NHL. It is crucial that he continues with the way that he is playing due to the one year contract that will be up soon. The Caps need depth with the bottom six forwards, and he has proven to be the perfect candidate for one of the spots in the future.