Penguins Getting Key Pieces Back, Chinakhov Impresses Early, and NHL Trade Winds Swirl
It’s a busy Monday in the hockey world, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are right in the thick of it with some encouraging updates and roster movement - not to mention a new face who’s already making waves.
Chinakhov Clicking with Malkin
Let’s start with Egor Chinakhov, the Penguins’ latest addition up front. It hasn’t taken long for the 22-year-old to find chemistry, especially skating alongside fellow Russian Evgeni Malkin. Chinakhov’s early success isn’t just a pleasant surprise - it’s a promising sign for a Penguins team that’s been searching for offensive consistency beyond the top line.
Playing with a center like Malkin can be a game-changer for a young forward, and Chinakhov seems to be soaking up the opportunity. His speed and shot have stood out, but it’s the way he’s reading the game next to Malkin that really jumps off the screen. If this duo continues to gel, Pittsburgh might have found a spark that could help balance their attack down the stretch.
Karlsson Returns to Practice
On the blue line, there’s more good news. Erik Karlsson was back on the ice with the team Sunday after missing the last three games with an undisclosed injury. He’d been placed on injured reserve, but his presence at practice suggests he could be nearing a return to game action.
Karlsson’s ability to drive play from the back end is a huge part of Pittsburgh’s identity, and without him, the transition game has lacked its usual punch. Getting him back - and healthy - would be a massive boost as the Pens try to stay in the playoff mix.
Roster Moves: Koppanen Up, McGroarty Down
The Penguins also made a couple of roster tweaks over the weekend. Forward Joona Koppanen was recalled from AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, while rookie Rutger McGroarty, who had recently been activated, was assigned to the same affiliate.
Koppanen brings size and a responsible two-way game that could help shore up the bottom-six forward group. As for McGroarty, this move isn’t a setback - it’s a chance for the young winger to get more minutes and continue developing in a top role down in the AHL.
Around the NHL: Rangers Retooling, Flames Make a Big Move
Elsewhere in the league, there’s no shortage of headlines.
In New York, Rangers GM Chris Drury has signaled a shift in direction, telling fans the team is entering a “retool” phase. That could mean significant changes are coming - and yes, that includes the possibility of moving star winger Artemi Panarin. It’s a bold move for a team that’s been in the playoff picture, but Drury seems to believe it’s time to recalibrate.
Meanwhile, the San Jose Sharks placed veteran defenseman Nick Leddy on waivers Sunday. Leddy, a reliable puck-mover with playoff experience, could draw interest from teams looking to add depth on the back end.
In Calgary, the Flames pulled off one of the more notable trades of the season, sending defenseman Rasmus Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights. Coming back to Calgary: defenseman Zach Whitecloud, prospect Abram Wiebe, a 2027 first-round pick, and a conditional 2027 second-rounder that becomes a first if Vegas wins the Stanley Cup this year. The Flames will also retain half of Andersson’s salary, which helps make the numbers work for cap-tight Vegas.
And finally, the hockey world is remembering Phil Goyette, a four-time Stanley Cup champion with the Montreal Canadiens and the first head coach in New York Islanders history. Goyette passed away at age 92, leaving behind a legacy that spans both sides of the bench.
What’s Next
For the Penguins, all eyes will be on Karlsson’s status heading into the week and whether Chinakhov can keep building on his early momentum. With the trade deadline approaching and the Eastern Conference standings tightening, every lineup tweak and hot streak matters just a little more.
Stay tuned - this Penguins team might just be finding its stride at the right time.