PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Penguins were down multiple skaters at their most recent practice after returning from an unsuccessful road trip. Evgeni Malkin and Jansen Harkins were unexpected absences, while Noel Acciari skated beforehand. Kris Letang also left the workout early.
According to head coach Mike Sullivan, Letang got “nicked up” and departed as a precaution. Malkin was given his second maintenance day since returning from the All-Star break. He skated momentarily but did not participate with his teammates.
Harkins is dealing with something a bit more severe as the Penguins diagnosed the forward with a concussion. Harkins departed the Penguins contest against the Winnipeg Jets in the second period and did not return for the third.
In the opening frame of that game, Harkins took a heavy hit up high but played through the pain for some time.
This is the second player on the Penguins roster currently dealing with a concussion. Acciari suffered one thanks to an illegal check to the head from Jets’ defenseman Brenden Dillon. Both Harkins and Acciari are regulars on the Penguins’ fourth line.
At the moment, both Harkins and Acciari are still on the active roster. They will likely be moved to injured reserve to make room for recalls from the AHL. Sam Poulin is unlikely to be considered because he is dealing with an injury again.
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