Penguins Game 56, Playing Short; Lines, Notes & How to Watch vs. Rangers
NEW YORK — The Pittsburgh Penguins (22-24-9) are figuratively fighting with one arm tied behind their back. The Penguins will be without Sidney Crosby Friday when they open a back-to-back set of games, beginning with the New York Rangers (26-23-4) at Madison Square Garden.
The puck drops at the self-proclaimed “World’s most famous arena” just after 7 p.m.
The Penguins are already missing Evgeni Malkin, who is out week-to-week and on injured reserve. On Friday, they’ll also go without Sidney Crosby.
Read More:Â BREAKING: Sidney Crosby OUT vs. Rangers; Full Update
The Penguins’ makeshift lineup will bear little resemblance to their optimal configuration. The team also recalled Emil Bemstrom from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Bemstrom played in the AHL All-Star Game earlier this week and has 41 points in 37 AHL games.
However, based on practice, the Penguins’ top line will be centered by Rickard Rakell, with Anthony Beauvillier and Bryan Rust.
Cody Glass remained in the middle of the second line.
The Penguins struggled to score goals again Tuesday, losing 3-2 in a shootout to the New Jersey Devils. The Penguins rallied from a 2-0 deficit behind strong goaltending by Alex Nedeljkovic and goals by Rickard Rakell and Kevin Hayes.
The Penguins are eight points out of a playoff spot, trailing the Detroit Red Wings.
Coach Mike Sullivan said Alex Nedeljkovic will start in goal for the Penguins. Presumably, Igor Shesterkin will start for the Rangers.
Penguins Lines
Anthony Beauvillier-Rickard Rakell-Bryan Rust
Michael Bunting-Cody Glass-Danton Heinen
Matt Nieto-Kevin Hayes-Phil Tomasino
Boko Imama-Blake Lizotte-Noel Acciari
Defense
Matt Grzelcyk-Erik Karlsson
P.O Joseph-Kris Letang
Ryan Graves-Vincent Desharnais
Goalie: Alex Nedeljkovic
Rangers Lines
Artermi Panarin–J.T. Miller–Mika Zibanejad
Reilly Smith–Vincent Trocheck–Alex Lafreniere
Chris Kreider–Jonny Brodzinski–Will Cuylle
Jimmy Vesey–Sam Carrick–Matt Rempe
Defense
Ryan Lindgren-Adam Fox
K’Andre Miller–Will Borgen
Zac Jones–Braden Schneider
Goalie: Igor Shesterkin
Special Teams
Penguins power play: 25.0%, 6th. Penguins penalty kill: 79.2%, 17th.
Rangers power play: 20.9%, 19th. Devils penalty kill: 82.5%, 6th.
Penguins Game Notes
The Penguins have performed well against New York, going 14-10-3 in their last 27 games. This is the first game of the Penguins’ annual Dad’s Trip.
Over the last four games dating back to January 27, the Penguins have allowed a league-low six goals against.
Anthony Beauvillier has 25 points (13-12-25) in 32 career games against New York. It’s the most goals and points he’s recorded against any one team.
Alex Nedeljkovic has a .936 save percentage over his last seven games.
How to Watch
TV: SportsNet Pittsburgh
Radio: 105.9 The X
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I’m glad Bemstrom got called up….he deserves a look, although I don’t see him in the listed lineup here.
Because he is probably going to be scratched.
I am a big fan of Ned but Joel needs some starts, otherwise why did we bring him up? Its not the best scenario to start him without your two superstars hurt but i would give him the chance.
I’m guessing they will send Joel down for the break but it’s a waste for him to ride the pine. The only thing I can come up with is they want to trade Ned before the deadline.
If they can get something for Ned maybe, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he is kept for next season with Jarry probably being bought out in the off season
How does this game go towards the first round draft pick from the Strangers?
Are we wanting the Strangers to due good this year and bad next year?
I’m confused. Good for #20 er #18.
Why play Bemstrom when you have a Nieto?
LMAO
Fire Sully!!!
You spoke too soon. He is in the lineup and Nieto is out.