After tough night, NHL insider Josh Yohe points to possible changes for the Penguins
Photo credit: Edit from PensBurgh
NHL insider Josh Yohe believes the Penguins should be switching up their lines after a tough loss to the Maple Leafs, and he provided his views on it.
Saturday's contest against the Toronto Maple Leafs ended in a lopsided 7-2 defeat for the Pittsburgh Penguins, though that score wasn't altogether indicative of how the game transpired.
The Penguins generated plenty of pressure, outshot Toronto, and created multiple quality chances, yet almost every breakdown ended up in the back of their net.
Both goalies had tough nights. Arturs Silovs was pulled after allowing four goals on 10 shots, and Tristan Jarry wasn't able to steady things after coming in.
What Penguins' defensive lapses led to
Defensive-zone coverage also faltered, leading to high-danger chances that Toronto capitalized on. Despite generating enough offense to score several times, the Penguins simply couldn't finish.
NHL insider Josh Yohe thinks the defeat brought to the surface more profound lineup issues. Too many players have not brought enough value to their lineup spots to merit regular minutes.
"Some players simply aren't doing enough to remain in the lineup."
- Josh Yohe
- Josh Yohe
Joona Koppanen does not have a goal in 10 games and has generated just one point on limited shot creation. Danton Heinen has also struggled with just one point in nine games despite putting up strong AHL numbers earlier this year.
Ville Koivunen, while still learning, has also reached a tough stretch but remains in the long-term picture. He does say changes could be forthcoming, including giving opportunities to younger forwards like Rutger McGroarty or Tristan Broz.
Why the Penguins could dress a more physical lineup vs. the Flyers
There is also consideration for dressing a physical presence like Boko Imama on Monday in Philadelphia, where games can take on a more aggressive tone.
Defensively, the pairing of Ryan Graves and Matt Dumba had a rough night with late-game turnovers and coverage lapses, adding to the deficit.
Up next for the Penguins is a grueling three-game road trip against the Flyers, Lightning, and Stars, a stretch that could go a long way in revealing just where this team really stands.
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