PHN EXTRA: Quiet Night, Strong Night for Daniel Sprong; Player Analysis

PITTSBURGH — Daniel Sprong is in a battle not only for playing time but also his place on the Penguins roster. In the Penguins next to last preseason game, Sprong played his best game since the start of training camp despite not adding his name to the scoring sheet in the Penguins 5-1 win over the Buffalo Sabres at PPG Paints Arena.

“He played really well tonight,” said new linemate Matt Cullen.

Cullen, Sprong and Riley Sheahan established a tough offensive presence early in the first period. The trio went to an old-school cycle deep in the Buffalo zone and pinned the Sabres deep. Sprong was stronger on the wall and moved with the play. He used his size in ways he hasn’t before.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now also spoke with a working juniors coach and hockey teacher, who coaches in North America and in international play. He watched Sprong Wednesday night,