Penguins vs Kraken: Lineup Sticks After Impressive Win
The Pittsburgh Penguins will look to extend their winning streak on the back of their top line.
PITTSBURGH – The must-win games continue for the Pittsburgh Penguins as their final Western road trip of the season takes a dip back into America with a matchup against the Seattle Kraken. The Penguins have been fighting hard without multiple key forwards, and as the push for a possible playoff berth continues, they’ll keep relying on the MVP-level play from Sidney Crosby.
The Penguins held a complete team morning skate in Seattle giving way for an almost certain picture of what the lines will look like. Jonathan Gruden was recalled, but he will likely be a healthy scratch and used as a safety net in case more injuries pile up while still on the road.
Projected Forward Lines
Reilly Smith – Sidney Crosby – Rickard Rakell
Bryan Rust was moved to injured reserve, meaning this will be the look of the Penguins for the time being. While Crosby’s dominance continues, Rickard Rakell has broken through for three goals in the last two games.
Drew O’Connor – Evgeni Malkin – Valtteri Puustinen
It used to be that Crosby was the Penguins’ center given young wingers to develop. Now, it looks like Evgeni Malkin is being given the responsibility of a veteran center to a pair of youthful pieces. Drew O’Connor and Valtteri Puustinen have had great runs with Malkin between them.
Emil Bemstrom – Lars Eller – Jesse Puljujarvi
Lars Eller came through in a clutch situation against the Vancouver Canucks, and he’ll look to keep up his work as a helpful depth center. Jesse Puljujarvi is still hunting for his first point in a Penguins’ uniform, and perhaps Eller can find a way to help.
Jansen Harkins – Noel Acciari – Jeff Carter
The Penguins’ fourth line remains steady defensively, just with no jump of offense. Noel Acciari was banged up against the Canucks, but appears to be fine and will continue battling as the fourth center.
Projected Defensive Pairs
P.O. Joseph – Kris Letang
Marcus Pettersson – Erik Karlsson
Ryan Graves – Chad Ruhwedel
No movements are on the horizon for the Penguins’ defensive pairs.
Starting Goalie
Tristan Jarry
Tristan Jarry has taken over as the Penguins’ full-time starter. Heading into his fourth straight start, he will look to extend his and the Penguins winning streak.
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