Penguins welcome back Malkin but lose McGroarty ahead of Devils clash
The Pittsburgh Penguins are preparing for Thursday’s game against the New Jersey Devils with a mix of good and bad news. While forward Rutger McGroarty has been sidelined with a concussion, Evgeni Malkin is set to return after a lengthy absence. The team also held a full practice on Wednesday, fine-tuning their lines ahead of the matchup.
McGroarty suffered the injury during a collision in Tuesday’s practice and has now been placed on injured reserve. The 20-year-old had already missed training camp and the first two months of the season due to an offseason injury. His latest setback adds to a difficult start to his campaign.
The Penguins adjusted their forward lines in Wednesday’s session. The top line featured Rickard Rakell, Sidney Crosby, and Bryan Rust, while Malkin centred a unit with Alexei Chinakhov and a new addition, Matty Kindel. Other combinations included Anthony Mantha, Drew Novak, and Zach Brazeau, as well as Connor Dewar, Valtteri Lizotte, and Artturi Acciari.
Meanwhile, Malkin is poised to make his comeback after sitting out 15 games with an upper-body injury. His return bolsters a team already riding a four-game winning streak. Captain Crosby praised the group’s recent performances, noting their strong work ethic, cohesion, and reduced mistakes.
New acquisition Egor Chinakhov has made an early impact since arriving from Columbus. Traded on 29 December 2025 after five seasons with the Blue Jackets, he has recorded two points (one goal, one assist) in three games with Pittsburgh. His quick adaptation has been a bright spot for the team.
Off the ice, the organisation assigned defenceman Harrison Brunicke to the Kamloops Blazers of the WHL. The move follows his bronze-medal performance with Team Canada at the 2026 World Junior Championship.
The Penguins will aim for a fifth consecutive victory when they face the Devils on Thursday. Malkin’s return and Chinakhov’s early contributions provide a boost, though McGroarty’s absence leaves a gap in the lineup. The team’s recent form suggests confidence as they enter the matchup.
