Penguins recall goalie on emergency basis after roster problems arise with Stuart Skinner and Brett Kulak

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been forced to recall goaltender Sergei Murashov from their AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, on an emergency basis.

This move comes as the team deals with unexpected roster complications, as goaltender Stuart Skinner and defenseman Brett Kulak have been labelled with non-roster status due to immigration issues.

This leaves gaps that need immediate attention. Murashov's recall ensures the Penguins have coverage in goal for upcoming games, depending on how long this process takes to resolve.

While he has primarily developed in the AHL this season, Murashov now has the opportunity to step into the NHL spotlight once again. The team, under head coach Dan Muse, will monitor his performance closely as they move forward.

Skinner was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins by the Edmonton Oilers on Friday for Tristan Jarry in a swap of goalies.

Pittsburgh also received Kulak and a second-round pick in the 2029 NHL Draft. Edmonton received forward Samuel Poulin, who is currently in the AHL.

There was talk yesterday that immigration issues would maybe hold up Skinner and Kulak from making their debuts, and unfortunately, that is exactly what has happened now.

Skinner is 11-8-4 with a 2.83 goals-against average, .891 save percentage and two shutouts in 23 games with the Oilers this season. He made 27 saves in a 4-1 win against the Detroit Red Wings on Thursday and was 3-1-0 in his past four starts.

Kulak has just two assists in 31 games this season. Selected by the Calgary Flames in the fourth round (No. 105) of the 2012 NHL Draft, the 31-year-old has 127 career points (28 goals, 99 assists) in 611 regular-season games for the Flames, Montreal Canadiens and Oilers.

He also has 24 points (three goals, 21 assists) in 98 career playoff games.

More to come soon.