Penguins Excited About Spark Provided by Emerging Prospect

It’s been quite a few seasons since the Pittsburgh Penguins have had a promising young prospect jump into the NHL roster and make as much noise as Valtteri Puustinen has this year.

Ever since his second recall to the NHL level, Puustinen has played five games with the Penguins and recorded four total points.

Each of Puustinen’s points have been assists, but he’s provided a real spark for the team in more ways than one.

Head coach Mike Sullivan can tell Puustinen is feeling more comfortable and getting better with each passing game and he’s slowly earning a regular role on the roster.

“He’s an eager, enthusiastic learner,” Sullivan said. “He’s going to get better with every game… He’s a smart player.”

Puustinen has been playing on the Penguins second line with Evgeni Malkin and Reilly Smith, and they’ve both seen great things from the youngster.

“It’s great to see him have almost instant success,” Smith said. “He does have more confidence every game on the puck and it’s very noticeable.”

Malkin didn’t want to give away too many secrets or jinx any good mojo going with his line, but he’s excited about the progress Puustinen and his line have made.