Marino, who was drafted in the sixth round (154th overall) by Edmonton in the 2015 NHL Draft, is currently unsigned. The Oilers will receive Pittsburgh's 2021 sixth-round draft choice if Marino signs with the Penguins, or if the team trades his rights.
"John is a mobile defenseman who excels at moving the puck while also playing with an edge to his game," said Rutherford. "We are excited to acquire him as we continue to add defensive depth to the organization. The next step is to work on getting a contract done with him."
The 22-year-old spent the 2018-19 campaign playing collegiate hockey with Harvard University of the ECAC Conference, where he suited up for 30 games, registering three goals and eight assists for 11 points. In three seasons with Harvard, Marino has tallied 42 points (7G-35A) in 101 career games.
A native of Brockton, Massachusetts, Marino's best season with Harvard came during the 2016-17 campaign where he recorded 15 points (2G-13A) in 35 games, helping the Crimson to an ECAC Championship. He was also named to the NCAA All-Ivy League Second Team.
Prior to college, 6-foot-1, 181-pound Marino played one season with the Tri-City Storm of the USHL in 2015-16, where he finished second among team defensemen in goals (5), assists (25) and points (30) in 56 games. He also suited up for 11 playoff games, picking up two assists en route to Tri City's Clark Cup Championship.
