The Penguins yesterday placed forward Drew O’Connor on their covid protocol list, but welcomed back from the list goaltender Tristan Jarry and forward Kasperi Kapanen. Forward Teddy Blueger returned from the list on Sunday but did not play against San Jose.
Forward Jeff Carter and O’Connor are the two Penguins currently out for covid protocols, although coach Mike Sullivan says Carter is feeling much better. Jarry, Blueger, and Kapanen all practiced yesterday and Sullivan said they were available for tonight’s game against the St. Louis Blues, but did not say if any of them would play.
The Penguins are on an eight-game winning streak despite a run of adversity that includes both covid and injuries to key players. Sullivan credits the team’s veterans such as Kris Letang and Sidney Crosby for their leadership in setting the tone for the Pens as a team.
Kris Letang has been at the top of his game from the start this season, which he’s playing on an expiring contract. Sullivan admires Letang’s understanding of the game.
Forward Brian Boyle returned to the team yesterday after taking a couple of days for the New Year’s Day birth of his son, Callum. Forward Jason Zucker, who is on the injured list, skated before yesterday’s practice. Forward Anthony Angello was returned from the Penguins’ taxi squad to Wilkes-Barre-Scranton.
The Blues come into tonight’s game having won two in a row and four of their last five. They are in second place in the Central Division. The Penguins are in fourth place in the Metro Division.
Tonight’s game will be on WCCS because of IUP basketball on U92.
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