Mark Friedman

Mark Isaac Friedman (born December 25, 1995) is a Canadian professional ice hockey defenceman, currently playing for the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected in the 3rd round the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, the 86th overall pick of the draft. Prior to turning professional, Friedman played for the Bowling Green Falcons for three seasons where he was named to the WCHA All-Rookie Team and First Team All-WCHA.
Playing career.
Growing up, Friedman played for the minor team the Don Mills Flyers of the Greater Toronto Hockey League.
Friedman played for the Waterloo Blackhawks of the USHL in 2012–14. In 2014, he was named USHL Second All-Star Team.
He was selected in the 3rd round the 2014 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers, the 86th overall pick of the draft.
Prior to turning professional, Friedman played for the Bowling Green Falcons for three seasons on a full hockey scholarship. At the conclusion of his freshman year, Friedman was named to the WCHA All-Rookie Team and the Falcons' co-Rookie of the Year. Following his successful freshman campaign, Friedman was invited to the Flyers prospect and development camp before the 2015–16 season. In his sophomore season, Friedman was named to the First Team All-WCHA.
Professional.
Philadelphia Flyers.
Friedman signed an entry-level contract with the Flyers on March 21, 2017. He was reassigned to their American Hockey League affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.
He made his NHL debut on April 6, 2019, vs. the Carolina Hurricanes. On this date Friedman became the second Jewish player in Flyers history.
In July 2020, Friedman and the Flyers agreed to a two-year, one-way contract extension, with an average annual value of $725,000. Remaining on the Flyers roster for the pandemic delayed 2020–21 season, Friedman made 4 appearances from the blueline before he was placed on waivers on February 23, 2021. On the following day, Friedman was claimed by division rival in the Pittsburgh Penguins, under the influence of newly installed and former Flyers G.M. Ron Hextall.
Pittsburgh Penguins.
On February 24, 2021, Pittsburgh Penguins general manager Ron Hextall announced that they had claimed Friedman off of waivers. He scored his first NHL goal against his former team in an eventual 4–3 loss, and left the game early after a hit from Nolan Patrick.
Personal life.
Friedman was born in Toronto, Ontario, to parents Jeff and Joanne. Friedman is Jewish. His hometown is Toronto. His paternal grandfather, Mark Friedman (for whom he was named), played golf for the University of Miami.