Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jansen Harkins underwent hand surgery on Friday morning, resulting in a long-term absence from the team. According to the league’s media website, Harkins has been placed on injured reserve, although it’s unclear whether he’s on regular or long-term IR. The injury likely occurred during Thursday’s 6-0 loss to the Washington Capitals, following a fight with Capitals forward Beck Malenstyn in the second period, after which Harkins did not return to the game.
Harkins, primarily utilized on the fourth line, has played 43 games this season, contributing four assists with an average ice time of 8:12 per game.
In other injury news, forward Bryan Rust, who has been sidelined for the past six games due to an undisclosed injury, participated in full-contact practice on Friday in Cranberry. While Coach Mike Sullivan didn’t provide specific details on Rust’s condition, he hinted that Rust is nearing a return to the lineup.
Rookie forwards Jonathan Gruden and Joona Koppanen were absent from practice after being assigned to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the AHL. It’s uncertain whether these assignments are merely procedural moves, as the AHL has a deadline on Friday for players to be eligible for the Calder Cup playoffs.
Additionally, rookie forward Valtteri Puustinen was assigned to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton in a paper transaction but was present for Friday’s practice session.
Regarding trade speculation, there’s been a reaction to the Penguins potentially trading Jake Guentzel to the Hurricanes.
