Penguins Clear Space for McCann; Re-Assign Bellerive to WBS

The Pittsburgh Penguins presumably cleared a roster spot for Jared McCann on Friday. The team moved Josh Currie to the taxi squad and sent Jordy Bellerive to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, according to GM Ron Hextall.

The moves open a spot for Jared McCann, who was a full participant in the morning skate on Thursday. The team has not yet activated McCann.

Bellerive, 21, has been on the taxi squad since Feb. 19. The formerly undrafted free agent wowed the Penguins organization with a standout rookie camp in 2017, and the future Lethbridge Hurricanes captain earned an entry-level contract. His development was delayed when he was part of a campfire accident that left him with severe burns on his arms and hands. Several partygoers, who were current or former WHL players, were severely injured. One player was placed in a coma, but all have recovered.

Bellerive appeared in three games for WBS this season, with two goals. In 59 career AHL games, Bellerive has 14 goals, 10 assists, and 24 points.

Currie, 28, has 21 games of NHL experience, all with the Edmonton Oilers.

If the Pittsburgh Penguins activate Jared McCann before their game against the New York Islanders on Saturday, he likely would assume the second LW role. Winger Jason Zucker will be out “longer-term,” according to head coach Mike Sullivan, who said he expected Zucker back before the end of the regular season but declined to provide additional details.