Brassard Out, DeSmith in Net: Penguins Lines vs Vancouver Canucks

The Pittsburgh Penguins (4-2-1) finish their four-game road trip tonight in Vancouver (6-5-0). The Penguins have won the first three games of the trip (Toronto, Edmonton, Calgary). With a full team morning skate Saturday, the Penguins lines are similar to their 9-1 win over Calgary, Thursday. However, center Derick Brassard, who left the Thursday game in Calgary, was not at the skate and the Penguins lines were adjusted.

Update: Head coach Mike Sullivan said Brassard is out day-to-day with a lower body injury.

It also appears defenseman Juuso Riikola will remain out and Chad Ruhwedel will remain in the lineup.

Penguins goalie Casey DeSmith was the first goalie off the ice. He figures to start. DeSmith is 1-0-2 with a .922 save percentage and 2.59 goals against average.

Sidney Crosby and Derick Brassard each had three points, Thursday. With Brassard’s absence, it appears Daniel Sprong will draw in against Vancouver. Sprong has been struggling this season despite three points (0g, 3a) in seven games.