At this point of the regular season, only six members of the Pittsburgh Penguins have played in all 47 possible games this season. The Penguins lead the NHL in man-games lost to injury with 279. A number substantially higher than that of the second-place Anaheim Ducks with 228.
At the beginning of the season, it was the defensive core that was plagued by the injury bug. Present day, Pittsburgh’s forwards are getting caught up in the injury woes that has this team headed straight for 300 games lost to injury.
Evgeni Malkin returned earlier this month after missing half of December due to injury. Beau Bennett hasn’t played since Nov. 22 and is still a month out from lacing up the skates. So that leaves Chuck Kobasew, Jayson Megna, Joe Vitale, Brian Gibbons, Andrew Ebbett, James Neal and Pascal Dupuis on the sidelines.
A few weeks ago, we had published an article titled, “Byslma’s system has lead to Pens success.” This couldn’t be more evident, as this coaching staff continues to win games with this team short-handed.
Down eight forwards, the Penguins have been forced to recall players from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton time and time again. As the Penguins continue to cruise in the Metro division picking up their 13th straight home victory, this team right now is not built for a strong push in the playoffs.
However, there is no panic button, this team is defying all odds as the hockey gods look on in amazement, truly mesmerized of how this team continues to rack up points so awfully short-handed.
While players like Taylor Pyatt and the AHL players have played admirably, their contributions won’t last long nor should they be expected to.
Ray Shero wasn’t voted best general manager of 2013 by coincidence. The Penguins general manager has been a mastermind when it comes to acquiring players. Prime examples would be Chris Kunitz and James Neal. Last year before the trade deadline, Shero acquired three players giving up a very little in the process.
A deal or two will be made before the trade deadline by Shero and company as there are a few teams rumored to be willing to part ways with top players. Namely the Buffalo Sabres, Florida Panthers and most recently, the Winnipeg Jets are looking to build for the future and the Penguins have a plethora of talent. Even if Pittsburgh gets the likes of Megna and Ebbett back this week, those are still just depth guys.
One thing the Penguins cannot afford to do is bring in players past their prime. Jarome Iginla and Brendan Morrow simply couldn’t keep up on a line with Crosby or Malkin. Douglas Murray, while he was physical, was a complete ice-wagon. One would think that Shero will use the Olympics for recruitment. One would also have to ponder that if Crosby or Malkin end up molding with a player during the Olympics, Shero would certainly take notice.
Furthermore, the loss of Dupuis will need to be addressed along with a viable third line winger who can win battles along the boards and still produce offensively. Don’t be surprised if Max Talbot returns for a second stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
