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.
“I don’t want to say anything like too much right now because I don’t like talk about my line when we play good,” Malkin said. “Every game we try and help the team win.”
In his five-game sample size, Puustinen has impressed enough that president and general manager Kyle Dubas says he’s part of the forward competition when Bryan Rust returns to health.
Dubas believes that Puustinen is playing extremely smart and confident hockey and is encouraged by the progress he has been making.
“The thing that has separated him from others who come in and get that chance,” Dubas said. “He hasn’t been afraid to make plays or hold the puck himself.”
Puustinen is coming into his own at the NHL level and carving out a nice role for himself in the lineup.
That first goal still eludes him, however, but the Penguins know it’s just a matter of time.
“I’m shocked it hasn’t yet,” Smith said. “It’ll be any game now.”
Puustinen has a great shot and everyone in the room recognizes that, even the leaders.
“He’s got a good shot,” Sidney Crosby said. “It’s only a matter of time.”
“I try helping him!” Malkin said. “It’s my job. Last game he had breakaway but he pass to me.”
More must-reads: