The Pittsburgh Penguins could see a brand new Rickard Rakell when he returns to the lineup.

After playing as one of the most consistent skaters for the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2022-23, Rickard Rakell has had a tough run to start this season.

While playing on the Penguins second line, Rakell was yet to score a goal through 17 games before suffering an upper-body injury that took him out of the lineup for almost a month.

Rakell seems to be working his way back into the lineup after his time off, and he’s ready to turn the page and find a new rhythm on the ice.

“It’s been a tough season for me so far,” Rakell said. “That’s in the past now. I’m just excited to be back.”

Rakell is hoping his return to the lineup can almost be the start of a new year for him.

“Forget everything that’s been,” Rakell said. “A new season starts.”

Head coach Mike Sullivan labeled Rakell as a game-time decision against the Minnesota Wild and is hopeful this fresh start can be a spark for his game.

"Raks is a good player, he has finishing capability," Sullivan said. "We're hoping when we do reinsert him into the lineup, that he's got an opportunity for a little bit of a reset."

Since the Penguins are still dealing with a few injuries, Rakell likely won’t return to his normal spot in the lineup, rather will play on the first line.

For the past few practices, Rakell has skated on the first line with Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel.

Bryan Rust is still out due to an upper-body injury and was recently placed on injured reserve.

Rakell has yet to be elevated from long-term injured reserve, but things seem to be leaining in that direction.

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