PITTSBURGH – In their last practice at home before a back-to-back on the road, the Pittsburgh Penguins skated without Evgeni Malkin. The Penguins center was one of three absences and undoubtedly the most unexpected player to miss the time.
Noel Acciari and Matt Nieto were also absent but are dealing with more apparent injuries. Acciari left the last game early after taking a dirty hit to the head from Winnipeg Jets’ defenseman Brenden Dillon, while Nieto has been out of the lineup since late November.
Defenseman John Ludvig skated in Malkin’s place during line rushes. Newcomer Jesse Puljujarvi took reps on the Penguins' second power play unit in place of the absent Malkin.
Forward Colin White stepped in to center the fourth line, which will likely be the long-term fix while Acciari remains out. Head coach Mike Sullivan stated that Acciari will miss time with a concussion.
Sullivan also noted that Malkin was absent with a maintenance day and he shouldn't miss any time.
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