Penguins vs Stars: Defenseman Finally Makes NHL Debut

The Pittsburgh Penguins will see a fresh face in their lineup against the Dallas Stars.

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Penguins continue their three-game road swing with a trip to the Western Conference to take on the Dallas Stars. While the Penguins’ playoff hopes continue to shrink, they’ll have a tough test against a genuine Stanley Cup contender.

Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan ruled out Jeff Carter and Ryan Graves. Carter is continuing to deal with an upper-body injury, while Graves is still in Pittsburgh for the birth of his first child.

With those two out of the lineup against the Stars, the Penguins will likely see a young face return to the lineup and the NHL debut for a hopeful defenseman.

Drew O’Connor – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust

If the Penguins were to make the postseason, it would likely be thanks to the hard work of their captain, Sidney Crosby. As the Penguins hit the road, he’s primed for a standout performance. Counting the Penguins out is easy, but you can never count out Crosby.

Michael Bunting – Evgnei Malkin – Rickard Rakell

It’s only been a handful of games, but the Penguins are already really impressed with Michael Bunting's abilities. His knack for driving the net and getting around a goal crease should eventually help Evgeni Malkin find a few more points down the stretch.

Reilly Smith – Lars Eller – Valtteri Puustinen

The Penguins really like what they’ve seen in recent matches with this trio. All three off Reilly Smith, Lars Eller, and Valtteri Puustinen bring their own skillsets and it’s managed to bring out a string of production for all of them. Those three have combined for 12 points in the last four games.

Jesse Puljujarvi – Noel Acciari – Emil Bemstrom

With Carter out for the second straight game, Jesse Puljujarvi is expected to return to the Penguins lineup. Puljujarvi has been a common healthy scratch since signing a deal with the Penguins but has a goal in 11 games.

P.O. Joseph – Kris Letang
Marcus Pettersson – Erik Karlsson
John Ludvig – Jack St. Ivany

Graves remaining in Pittsburgh opens the door for Jack St. Ivany to finally make his NHL debut. After being a healthy scratch for a pair of games, St. Ivany is finally getting his chance with the Penguins. He said seeing his name on the board was a “surreal” moment, and he’s excited for what’s to come.

Tristan Jarry

While confirming St. Ivany is suiting up on the blue line, Sullivan also stated Tristan Jarry will be the starting goalie against the Stars. Jarry has only played three career games against the Stars with a 1-1-1 record and five goals against.

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