PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Pens head coach Mike Sullivan said it’s encouraging that Tristan Jarry participated in Pens practice today in Boston. Sullivan said he will see how his number one goalie responds to today, but didn’t leave out the possibility Jarry could dress tomorrow afternoon in Boston.
Blueger goes full
Out since March 15th where he was injured against Boston, center Teddy Blueger went through a full practice today.
“That’s the final stage before the return to play, so that would suggest he’s getting a whole lot closer,” Sullivan said not committing to Blueger returning to the lineup Saturday.
Blueger played in 28 games this year with four goals, 11 assists and is a plus 8 on the season.
“He has a real solid defensive game,” Sullivan said. “He’s got good awareness away from the puck. He has good recognition skills. He can take diagonals away. His stick detail is really good on the penalty kill.”
“I think Teddy’s overall game has evolved both offensively and defensively.”
Tanev impact
Brandon Tanev returned after missing two weeks and immediately made an impact Thursday night with not only a primary assist on Zach Aston-Reese’s goal, but with the energy and fiery play.
“We certainly don’t take him for granted,” Sullivan said. “He’s an important aspect of our team. When you don’t have him, you realize how important he is to our group. For a guy who plays the way he does, he’s a durable player.”
“He never takes a night off. He plays the game hard. I think his energy is so contagious for the rest of our group.”
“He’s an intense guy, lots of energy,” said defenseman Kris Letang. “He’s a great teammate, cares about all of the guys in the room. He keeps our dressing room tight, but loose at the same time.”