*Sidney Crosby went through his second consecutive practice this morning. The Penguins star center will play in the season opener but he’s still not 100%. Crosby’s not getting a strong push from his back legs but he’s slowly improving. Pittsburgh opens the season with back-to-back games.
*Paul Bissonnette getting claimed did not surprise many in the organization. It was expected but Pittsburgh wasn’t prepared to keep Bissonnette in place of Eric Godard. Penguins winger Matt Cooke took Bissonnette under his wing a bit in training camp, working with him on the penalty kill.
*With Tyler Kennedy moved up to the 2nd line, the organization wanted to explore the trade market and waiver wire to improve their wingers for Jordan Staal. That’s what led to the waiver claim of Chris Bourque I’m told.
Early indications are the Penguins will give newly acquired winger Chris Bourque every opportunity to win a spot

on the Penguins third line to play alongside Jordan Staal. The odd-man out is going to be Pascal Dupuis if Bourque shows the ability to play with Staal.
With Ryan Bayda in the system who also plays a similar style to Pascal Dupuis, Ray Shero will keep exploring the market for Dupuis.
When Max Talbot returns, there’s just not going to be a spot for Dupuis.
*Rangers forward Sean Avery remains doubtful for Friday’s opener. He skated today but did not participate in any line rushes.
more to come