Penguins coach Dan Muse is eager to get his entire team back together, with seven players on injured reserve and an eighth, forward Bryan Rust, missing practice for the second day in a row yesterday due to illness. But Muse is hopeful that Rust and goaltender Tristan Jarry will be available tonight when the Pens welcome the Buffalo Sabres to PPG Paints Arena for the annual Thanksgiving eve game.
Muse says Jarry has looked good coming back from his undisclosed injury, and he’s benefitted from the recent light schedule that has allowed him to put in full practices with his teammates.
Jarry is 5-2-0 so far this season with a 2.60 goals-against average and a save percentage of .911. He’s been out since November 3rd.
Injured forwards Justin Brazzeau and Noel Acciari both skated before the practice along with forward Filip Hallander, who is out long term with a blood clot. Rickard Rakell did not skate. He’s been out since October 26th and is not expected back until mid-to-late December.
Young forward Tristan Broz will make his NHL debut tonight. Muse says he’s told Broz to go have fun and don’t overthink the game.
Muse likes the chemistry and the vigor the young Penguins have had with the veterans. He says the young players are inspired by the work ethic of guys like Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, and Evgeni Malkin.
Tristan Broz says he’ll bring the same game he played on the top line at Wilkes to the third line with the Penguins.
The Penguins yesterday sent former number one draft choice Sam Poulin back to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. He skated in two games in his latest stint in Pittsburgh and recorded no points.
Faceoff tonight is shortly after 7 o’clock. The pregame begins at 6 on 92.5 FM U92. (And yes, the Zamboni Gravy Boat will be given to the first 7,500 fans through the gates.)
The Pens will play back-to-back games Friday and Saturday, at Columbus, and at home against Toronto.
