Dan’ Daily Links: Schmidt Hits the Fan, Karlsson & Pacioretty Hot Topics

Here comes the hockey news! Controversy erupted yesterday when the NHL suspended Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Nate Schmidt 20 games for testing positive for a banned substance. However, that’s just the beginning of the story. Montreal Canadiens captain Max Pacioretty has been waiting patiently while the Canadiens, who told him they were trying to trade him, actually decide on his future. And Columbus has its hands full.

We’ll begin in Vegas where a pinch of salt in an Olympic swimming pool has the hockey world talking. Schmidt will be suspended for the first 20 games of the season, and then he fought back. Here’s the story (TSN)

Here is Schmidt’s full and combative statement (Vegas Golden Knights)

Even the experts said it was consistent with environmental contamination. What does that mean? It seems a harsh penalty.

Tom Petty wrote, “The waiting is the hardest part. Every day you see on more card…” Montreal captain Max Pacioretty will agree, though maybe not about the one more card. Those keep changing (Sportsnet)

Where in the world will Erik Karlsson play this season? Lyle Richardson of Spector’s Hockey looks at the suitors (Spector’s Hockey).

The Athletic looks at how each team defends the blue line (The Athletic)

PHN released its unofficial Penguins depth chart (PHN)

Tomorrow we launch Pittsburgh Sports Live! It will be a soft opening, with just one live show per day. In the coming weeks, we’ll be adding more shows, talent, and video offerings.

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