Penguins Game vs. Senators on Friday Postponed, Matt Murray Reunion on Hold

Just in case you haven’t noticed, we’re in the midst of the biggest COVID wave since last January. And just in case you wanted a few minutes reprieve, the NHL reminded us neither is really possible. On Tuesday afternoon, a wave of Canadian games were officially postponed, including the Pittsburgh Penguins game against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre on Friday.

The Penguins schedule this week was previously hit with a postponement as the Penguins game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday was postponed.

Arenas across Canada are being pushed to limited or zero capacity and the NHL is responding to protect its business and people, alike.

“In addition, the NHL announced that due to current attendance restrictions in certain Canadian cities, nine additional games will be rescheduled for dates later in the season when such restrictions may be eased or lifted,” the NHL statement read.

The first of which will be the Penguins in Ottawa on Friday. The game was going to be the reunion of the Penguins and former goalie Matt Murray, who was recalled from the Ottawa AHL affiliate this week as both NHL goalies were placed in COVID protocol.

Montreal Canadiens home games through Jan. 10 have been postponed. Their Jan. 12 game against the Boston Bruins has been moved to the TD Garden. The Bruins will play in Montreal at a later date.

The Pittsburgh Penguins practiced at the UPMC Lemieux Complex on Tuesday. Jake Guentzel and Bryan Rust were both in full-contact jerseys and full-participants. The extra couple of days off may guarantee the Penguins top-line will be top-line intact. Their next game is Sunday at home against the San Jose Sharks on Sunday afternoon at PPG Paints Arena.