Penguins/NHL
Here’s an list of borderline players who would have to clear waivers to be sent to WBS
Kris Beech
Deryk Engelland
Jonathan Filewich
Eric Godard
Dave Gove
Adam Henrich
Connor James
T.J. Kemp
Chris Minard
Joey Mormina
Danny Richmond
Ryan Stone
Daryl Sydor
Jeff Taffe
Bill Thomas
Inside Analysis
Which Players have the inside track of making the team and which one’s are garnering interest around the league? Read more for the latest
The Penguins know they are going to lose a quality forward or two. Bill Thomas has helped his cause a ton with his strong performance Monday night. Thomas was making things happen in the offensive zone and was effective on the forecheck. He also performed well on Saturday night. He is currently getting strong consideration. A source tells Inside Pittsburgh Sports, Thomas reminds Therrien of Chris Thorburn.
Jeff Taffe appears to have the inside track of being the teams fourth line center. Taffe has improved his defensive zone coverage and has fared well on face-offs in the defensive zone.
The Penguins have liked the way Kris Beech has played in camp. Beech has bulked up and is playing more physical. Beech played well Monday night and won a key face-off that led to the Penguins first goal
Janne Pesonen has struggled for the most part. On Friday and Saturday it looked like he was moving in the right direction but he had a rough outing Monday night. He was overmatched with the physical play and struggled getting the puck out of the zone when pressured. Pesonen has also had some issues of holding onto the puck too long in the neutral zone. Shane O’Brien had a field day with Pesonen Monday night just poking the puck away with ease. Pesonen does not have to clear waivers and will likely begin the season in WBS
Ryan Stone was awful the first three days of camp but has picked up his play since the Penguins have begun pre-season play. Stone was physical Monday night and was doing what he does best, being an agitator. That’s what the coaching staff wants to see from him.
Danny Richmond has been the surprise of camp. He has been effective on the breakout and the Penguins hope they can sneak him down to WBS. That remains to be seen. The Boston Bruins and Phoenix Coyotes are already showing interest, according to a source
