The Penguins do not play again until February 22nd against the Washington Capitals, as the “4 Nations Face-Off” takes the stage.
The round robin tournament featuring teams of NHL stars from the U.S., Canada, Sweden, and Finland begins on Wednesday when Canada plays Sweden in Montreal, and ESPN reported yesterday that the Penguins’ Sidney Crosby is with the team, but the Team Canada captain’s playing status is not yet known. Crosby missed the Pens’ last two games after suffering an upper body injury last Tuesday against New Jersey. The Penguins will leave the decision up to Crosby whether or not he plays, but teams must submit final rosters by tonight. Penguins president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas is the assistant general manager and director of player personnel for Team Canada.
The U.S., coached by Mike Sullivan, plays Finland on Thursday.
As for the Penguins, coach Mike Sullivan likes the way his team is working, despite being tied with the Flyers for last in the Metro Division. After Saturday’s loss in Philly, Sullivan said they are giving it everything they have despite missing the injured Crosby, Bryan Rust, and Evgeni Malkin.
Sullivan likes the character his team is showing in tough times.
The Penguins yesterday claimed defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok off waivers from the Utah Hockey Club. He’s played 23 games this season, with two goals and three assists. He’s been a healthy scratch for the last 15 games and 32 overall this year. The Pens also cut ties with Jesse Puljujarvi after he cleared unconditional waivers.
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