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Penguins Lose Another Forward to Concussion

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Penguins
By Nick Horwat | Last updated 2/12/24

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.

Updates from Mike Sullivan:
-Harkins has been diagnosed with a concussion
-Acciari skated this AM, is making progress
-Nieto is status quo, hasn’t skated yet
-Letang left practice after getting a little nicked up, it was more cautionary than anything
-Malkin had a maintenance day
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) February 12, 2024

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.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Penguins and was syndicated with permission.

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