Penguins were easy choice for DiPauli: 'I even wore 87 growing up'

It was always the Pittsburgh Penguins for Thomas DiPauli.

The Notre Dame standout was drafted by the Washington Capitals in the fourth round in 2012, but after three seasons in South Bend, he opted to sign a two-year entry-level contract with the Cup champs Friday.

For DiPauli, it's a chance to play for the team he's always rooted for.

"They've always been my favorite team," he said. "I even wore 87 growing up. I'm one of those kids."

Unfortunately for DiPauli, No. 87 is still unavailable in Pittsburgh.