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Dan Muse responds to criticism over latest lineup changes ahead of Stanley Cup Playoff push
Photo credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
This evening, Penguins' head coach Dan Muse responded to criticism over frustration with his latest lineup changes in practice.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have been dealing with a litany of injury issues over the last month since the Olympic break concluded.
Most notably, the Penguins were without captain Sidney Crosby after he reportedly suffered a knee injury.
In addition, defenseman Samuel Girard suffered an injury shortly after being acquired from the Colorado Avalanche.
Add on the fact that Evgeni Malkin faced a suspension for his actions against the Buffalo Sabres and the Penguins lineup began to look like an entirely different team.
Now, with all three back on the ice, Muse revealed a new look lineup finally at full health for the first time since the Penguins' made their deadline moves.
Dan Muse responds to criticism after new defensive pairings draw frustration from fans
During practice today, the Penguins debuted new lines that most notably featured Kris Letang back with Samuel Girard which is a pair that has drawn a lot of criticism in their limited time together.
In response to the move, fans responded with frustration and confusion regarding Muse's plan.
After practice, Muse spoke to the media and addressed the plan for the defensive unit moving forward.
Taking a look at it in practice, and clean things up when it comes to the game and how we wanted to work there. With Sammy being a full participant in practice today, we gave it a look. We'll have some conversations and finalize things moving forward.
Muse clearly seems committed to getting Girard back on the ice but is willing to switch things up quickly if he and Letang cannot get their game up to par together.
Look for Muse to test out these new pairings tomorrow afternoon against the Winnipeg Jets as the Penguins try and secure a big two points.
Also read on HockeyUnplugged :
Penguins unveil new blue line look and it solves their biggest weakness
Penguins unveil new blue line look and it solves their biggest weakness
| POLL | ||
MARS 20|66 ANSWERS Dan Muse responds to criticism over latest lineup changes ahead of Stanley Cup Playoff push Do you think the changes made will make a positive impact on the Pittsburgh Penguins lineup? | ||
| Yes | 49 | 74.2 % |
| No | 17 | 25.8 % |
| List of polls | ||