Mike Sullivan talks Karlsson's status, reflects on Buffalo game Tuesday night switches pre-season lineup
Head Coach Mike Sullivan had a lot to say about many players after the home loss to Buffalo Tuesday night and looks to start working his starters into the game.
In his post-game interview with the media, Mike Sullivan had a lot to say about the guys who contributed in the losing effort to Buffalo Tuesday night. When he was asked about the poise that Jack St. Ivany has shown so far in his young career, Sully had nothing but praise for the defenseman.
«He's really developed so well since he's become a Pittsburgh Penguin. Last year, when he came up and played NHL games, I thought he fit right in. He defends well, he's long, he has good size, he has good reach, he's mobile, he's physical, he battles at the net front, he plays within himself, he plays a calculated game. This year he comes back to training camp; he's got a whole lot more confidence."
Sullivan also talked about Joel Blomqvist and how he bounced back well with a solid game.
I thought he played a very calculated game. He had a calm demeanor. He was tracking pucks. He made a couple of good saves for us. I think that's a really good sign when a player has the ability to bounce back the way he did.
The Penguins took the ice this morning to skate, and it appeared that Sullivan was looking to change up some of the lines that were on the ice for yesterday's practice. One change that did not take place were the first two lines. It looks like we will be seeing our first action from Sidney Crosby since he signed his extension. He was paired with O'Connor and Rust both days. Evgeni Malkin and Michael Bunting are also looking to get some game action together on the second line with Rickard Rakell.
Marcus Pettersson and Kris Letang are also set to get is some game conditioning. Petterson is paired with St.Ivany and Letang pairs with Grzelcyk for our first look at these two possibly playing together.
Sullivan was also asked about the status of Erik Karlsson, who does not appear ready to play in any pre-season games. When Sully was asked about his status for the regular season, he had this to say:
With the Penguins next game on Saturday and then again on Sunday, Sully told the media this is partial why there have not been many cuts as of yet. It looks like most players will get a chance to be a part of either game this weekend.
The Penguins next pre-season game will be against the Detroit Red Wings Saturday night at 7pm.
| POLL | ||
26 SEPTEMBRE | 93 ANSWERS Mike Sullivan talks Karlsson's status, reflects on Buffalo game Tuesday night switches pre-season lineup Do you think that the first two lines used in practice for the Penguins will remain the same for the regular season? | ||
| Yes | 35 | 37.6 % |
| No | 58 | 62.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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