Penguins Recall Lafferty On Emergency Basis

The Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday recalled forward Sam Lafferty, one day after he was reassigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League.

His recall is on an emergency basis, which would indicate there is concern about a player’s availability for Wednesday’s game at Los Angeles. Forward Jared McCann did not practice with the Penguins Tuesday in Los Angeles. Coach Mike Sullivan was not asked about McCann, and he did not offer a reason for McCann’s absence.

Assistant coach Mark Recchi filled in at a forward spot during line rushes at practice.

Lafferty’s assignment to the AHL Monday ensures he will be eligible for the Calder Cup playoffs with Wilkes-Barre. The Penguins apparently did not plan on recalling him right away, given the emergency recall designation.

Here is the news release from the team:

The Pittsburgh Penguins have recalled forward Sam Lafferty on an emergency basis from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League, it was announced today by executive vice president and general manager Jim Rutherford.

In 46 games with Pittsburgh this season, Lafferty, 24, has six goals, seven assists and 13 points including two points (1G-1A) in his past five games. The Hollidaysburg, PA native’s latest goal came in the Penguins’ win over Detroit on February 16.

The 6-foot-1, 195-pound Lafferty has only seen action in six games this season at the AHL level where he has notched three goals.

Over the course of three seasons with WBS, Lafferty has recorded 17 goals, 38 assists and 55 points in 85 games.

Pittsburgh returns to action Wednesday night in Los Angeles as they take on the Kings at Staples Center. Puck drop is set for 10:30 PM ET on NBCSN.