Dan’s Daily: Flyers Help Penguins’ Chances, John Gibson’s Future

DENVER — The Pittsburgh Penguins could sorely use the return of defenseman Jeff Petry. While no timetable has been given, Petry went through an extended workout after Tuesday’s practice. Dave Molinari also put the Penguins through the grinder in his latest column. The Philadelphia Flyers did what others could not and boosted the Penguins’ playoff hopes by beating the Florida Panthers. The New York Islanders remain red-hot and are now four points ahead of the Penguins.

Also in the mix, Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s 40-goal seasons record. What is John Gibson’s future in Anaheim? And the Calgary Flames are making a go of the wild-card chase in the Western Conference.

According to PlayoffStatus.com, the Penguins are now 51/49 to MISS the playoffs.

Also, I’m at a loss regarding what else to write about this team. I feel like it’s been written. It’s been said. I disagree with a growing fan sentiment that Mike Sullivan has mismanaged the players; losing will always bring that out. I’m ready to know the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. I’m ready to know what’s behind Door No.1.

Also, I found a Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives spot in downtown Denver yesterday. It was two blocks from an old-school pool hall. Both made me very happy.

I did not finish my green chili “burger,” for which the place (Sam’s #3) is famous. I’ll post the picture of the monster at the end.

Pittsburgh Penguins, Playoff Chase

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Casey DeSmith was sick. Jeff Petry hit the ice. The Penguins practice story.

PHN+: The eyes have it. Dave Molinari did not spare the rod with his complete evaluation. From the playoff chase to quiet owners and potential reasons for perpetual mistakes, here is Dave’s full accounting of the Penguins.

Colorado Hockey Now: Bummer — Evan Rodrigues entered the concussion protocol and won’t face the Penguins tonight

Penguins Playoff Chase, NHL News & National Hockey Now:

Florida Hockey Now: It was not sunny in Philadelphia for the Panthers, who left without so much as a parting gift or cheesesteak. Go Flyers? They helped the Penguins by beating the Florida Panthers, 6-3.

Philly Hockey Now: The Flyers and Travis Sanheim made a statement. Here’s the Philadelphia Flyers side.

Sportsnet: However, the Toronto Maple Leafs unraveled, and the New York Islanders keep winning.

Washington Hockey Now: A terrible OT loss. The Columbus Blue Jackets beat the Washington Capitals in a WILD OT thriller, 7-6.

NHL.com: In a mailbag piece, Dan Rosen offered some cogent thoughts about John Gibson’s future. The NHL trade rumors have swirled, but nothing has happened. Rosen’s thoughts mirror mine, and I believe Buffalo is the favorite to get a deal done, BUT the Penguins could (or should) be in the mix.

Calgary Hockey Now: The roller coaster continues, but Calgary is hanging in there. The Flames beat Anaheim and are hanging with the Winnipeg Jets in the wild-card race. The Calgary Flames roller coaster.

Colorado Hockey Now: The defending Stanley Cup champs ensured their coach, Jared Bednar, is sticking around. Last year at this time, his job status was in jeopardy if they didn’t win a few playoff rounds. This year, he’s getting paid. Colorado Avalanche news.

Sportsnet: I know some of you pay attention to the college free-agent field. I generally wait to see if the Penguins are interested in anyone. Here are the top NCAA UFAs to watch.

Green chili burger from Sam’s #3 in Denver. I put the knife on the plate for context of this behemoth. pic.twitter.com/kmhy11Kit4

— Dan Kingerski (@TheDanKingerski) March 21, 2023