Penguins Ryan Poehling Making Progress; Nearing Return

Pittsburgh Penguins Head Coach Mike Sullivan provided a positive update today in regard to forward Ryan Poehling. The 24-year-old, who came over in a trade with Montreal this summer, hasn’t played since February 11th in the Penguins’ 6-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings. 

Ryan Poehling will not play in tonight’s game against Montreal, but it sounds like his return isn’t too far away. After being a full participant in the Penguins’ morning skate, Head Coach Mike Sullivan said, “He’s a whole lot closer,” per the Penguins’ social media. This is a significant sign after the Penguins forward suffered a setback just before the trade deadline. 

This season the 24-year-old forward has five goals and six assists for eleven points in thirty-eight games. Although the points aren’t necessarily eye-catching, there’s no denying how big of a boost Poehling’s return would be for the Penguins. Predominantly playing in a bottom-six role this season, the 24-year-old has been one of the few surprising bright spots in the Penguins’ depth. 

The Pittsburgh Penguins’ bottom-six struggles have really held the team back this season. With the team trading Teddy Blueger to the Vegas Golden Knights and Brock McGinn to the Anaheim Ducks, Ryan Poehling’s return will be heavily relied upon. It’s no secret both management and the coaching staff have confidence in Ryan’s ability, shaping up for a pretty exciting return. 

Regardless of what you think about Ryan Poehling’s style of play, one thing is for sure, the 24-year-old brings speed. With the Penguins roster being one of the oldest in a long time, it’ll be nice to add that quickness back into the lineup. With the impressive play from Drew O’Connor recently, and the acquisition of Mikael Granlund and Rickard Rakell now on the third line, this team’s bottom six finally looks deep enough to compete with the best. 

It’ll be fun to see where Ryan Poehling is deployed once he returns. Likely in a defensive role to replace Teddy Blueger and current injured Penguin Nick Bonino. Regardless of where the 24-year-old plays, his return will be significant as the Penguins’ race for the playoffs continues in full swing!

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Here Come the Playoffs – Cue’ the Duck Boats Pod

Kevin is back from vacation and dives right back into hockey with the boys as the Bruins wagon keeps rolling. They touch on the playoff race as the top teams in the east are all locked up while the West is still a free for all.DraftKings Sportsbook – Boston’s hometown Sportsbook IS LIVE right here in Massachusetts! Bet local on all your favorite sports from the comfort of your own home with DraftKings. To celebrate, ALL new customers will receive up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS bets when you sign up for DraftKings Sportsbook using code insidetherink! Soon you’ll be able to bet local on money lines, spreads, props, and more with one of America’s top-rated Sportsbooks – DraftKings Sportsbook!  Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app and sign up with code ITR to get up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS bets to use mobile sports betting in Massachusetts. That’s code insidetherink only at DraftKings Sportsbook.  If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, call (800) 327-5050 or visit (https://helplinema.org/) to speak with a trained specialist free and confidentially twenty four seven. 21+. Physically present in MA. Eligibility restrictions apply. Subject to regulatory licensing requirements. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. Opt in required. Bonus issued as free bets. Terms at draftkings.com/ma.

1. Here Come the Playoffs 32:42
2. Home Stretch 38:16
3. Kevy Cooks 45:22
4. Trade Deadline Eve 01:01:56
5. Donny Deals Strikes Again 44:18