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Penguins Line Combinations and Roster, Tonight

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PPG Paints Arena by Jleedev - Own work | CC BY-SA 4.0

The Pittsburgh Penguins line combinations are set, for tonight. The team has 26 players left in camp, three above the maximum. Forwards Josh Archibald and Tom Kuhnhackle are the final contenders for a roster spot. Tom Sestito’s name appears on the NHL roster, for now, but a camp injury prevented the Penguins from returning him the Wilkes Barre/Scranton Penguins.

Patric Hornqvist has not rejoined the team after off-season hand surgery, either. Both Kuhnhackl and Archibald could remain with the team until Hornqvist returns.

Tonight’s Line combinations;

PHN Analysis from Dan Kingerski:

–The HMK line preceded the HBK line and was electric. Hagelin struggled with a broken leg last season and admitted after the Stanley Cup Final that he didn’t have his customary hop until mid-June.

–McKegg has clearly locked down the third pivot spot, at least until the Penguins finalize the deal for Riley Sheahan or move on. The complicating factor here is the Red Wings contract stalemate with Andrea Anthanasiou. The Wings won’t part with a center until that situation is cleared.

Multiple sources with direct knowledge of the situation tell PHN, the Wings-Pens situation has complicated the Danis Zaripov situation. We’re working to clarify how many teams are waiting on the Wings/Sheahan/Penguins/Zaripov drama conclusion. Look for rapid movement if and when the Red Wings pony up the cash for Anthanasiou.

–It’s surprising to see Wilson on the fourth line. He would be a better offensive fit on the third line. The guess here is the Penguins want to settle the fourth line, while the third line remains jumbled.

–Pens and Sabres tonight. It will be fun to watch Jack Eichel and an improving Sabres crew. It’s put up or shut-up time for Buffalo. After two years of Dan Bylsma, the Sabres have to take a leap forward or they could bottom dwell for a long time…