More Help May Be Coming After Another Pittsburgh Penguins Forward Injured at Practice
Photo credit: DK Pittsburgh Sports
The Penguins suffered yet another injury at practice, as Filip Hallander left early, which has led NHL insider Matt Vensel to suggest more roster moves could come.
With injuries mounting and the Penguins losing three of four on their just-completed road trip, Wednesday's practice in Cranberry brought sweeping changes, and one of the biggest involved a rookie's promotion.
Fresh off his two-goal performance in Toronto, Ben Kindel was bumped to Sidney Crosby's wing. Coach Dan Muse acknowledged that the move was partially due to Kindel's great power-play chemistry with Crosby and Bryan Rust.
The rookie has drawn rave reviews from his teammates for his maturity, poise, and hockey IQ. Crosby pointed out his competitive edge and strong communication on the ice.
Danton Heinen should provide offensive help to the Penguins after leading the AHL in scoring
Danton Heinen also returned to the NHL roster after a dominant stint in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where he was leading the AHL in scoring.
The 30-year-old practiced at center on the third line, a position he's only recently started playing, and could help stabilize Pittsburgh's depth as injuries continue to mount.
The Penguins remain without Justin Brazeau for at least a month and Noel Acciari for at least three weeks. Filip Hallander also left practice early on Wednesday with an undisclosed issue.
Kevin Hayes did skate with the fourth line but isn't expected to play Thursday, which might leave the team short a forward. NHL insider Matt Vensel suggested another call-up or a seven-defensemen setup could be next.
"Even after bringing back Heinen, the Penguins may still need to add another forward.
Justin Brazeau and Noel Acciari were injured during the road trip. Brazeau is out at least four weeks. Acciari will miss a minimum of three. Then Filip Hallander left the ice very early in Wednesday's practice. Muse had no update to share on Hallander."
- Matt Vensel
Justin Brazeau and Noel Acciari were injured during the road trip. Brazeau is out at least four weeks. Acciari will miss a minimum of three. Then Filip Hallander left the ice very early in Wednesday's practice. Muse had no update to share on Hallander."
- Matt Vensel
Meanwhile, Kindel will make his top-line debut against Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals, his first taste of the Sid vs. Ovi rivalry that began before Kindel was born.
The 18-year-old laughed when reminded of that fact, a light moment during a tough stretch for the injury-depleted Penguins. If Kindel's promotion sparks the team, it might be just the boost Pittsburgh needs heading into a critical part of the schedule.
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