Penguins Update: Rakell Returns, Hinostroza Placed on Waivers
Forward Rickard Rakell, who last played on November 19, is set to make his return to the lineup when the Penguins square off against the Maple Leafs tonight following a lengthy stint on IR.
To make room, the team placed forward Vinnie Hinostroza on waivers.
There’s even an extra silver lining to Rakell’s anticipated return. Coach Mike Sullivan plans to slot the silky Swede next to Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel on the top line. If ever there was a chance for RikRak to bust out of his protracted season-opening slump (no goals in 17 games), it will come skating alongside Sid and Jake.
Rakell skated almost exclusively on a line with Evgeni Malkin and Reilly Smith to open the season, a deployment that appeared to benefit his linemates while contributing mightily to his personal slump. It’s well-documented that the 30-year-old forward is more productive and has better metrics skating on Sid’s line.
Too, I’ve liked the look of rookie Valtteri Puustinen on Geno’s flank. He’s added some youthful energy, not to mention a healthy dollop of skill and playmaking ability.