Pittsburgh Penguins forward Blake Lizotte is facing some time off the ice after sustaining an upper-body injury. The Penguins announced that Lizotte will be re-evaluated in four weeks, giving fans hope for his return as the playoffs approach.
Lizotte, who hails from Lindstrom, Minnesota, has been a solid contributor this season, tallying seven goals and 19 points while averaging nearly 14 minutes of ice time per game across 55 appearances. His last game was against the Utah Mammoth on March 14. The Penguins, who recently secured a decisive 7-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche, had already confirmed Lizotte's absence from that matchup.
Currently, the Penguins hold second place in the Metropolitan Division with a 34-18-15 record, amassing 83 points in 67 games. If Lizotte is cleared to return in four weeks, his presence could be pivotal as the Penguins aim for a strong playoff run in the fiercely competitive Eastern Conference.
Lizotte's journey to the NHL is a testament to his determination. Undrafted, he made his mark with the Fargo Force and St.
Cloud State University before signing with the Los Angeles Kings in 2019. Standing at 5’9”, Lizotte proved his mettle over six seasons with the Kings, peaking with 11 goals and 34 points in the 2022-23 season.
In 2024, Lizotte joined the Penguins on a two-year deal and has since been a reliable bottom-six center. His efforts were rewarded with a three-year contract extension in January, reflecting his value to the team.
Over his NHL career, spanning 434 games with both the Penguins and Kings, Lizotte has racked up 55 goals, 145 points, and 205 penalty minutes. In playoff action, he’s contributed one goal and two points in 15 games, all during his time with the Kings. As the Penguins gear up for the postseason, Lizotte's potential return could be a timely boost.