Penguins/NHL
Fleury to start in goal Thursday night
Pittsburgh Penguins center Evgeni Malkin did not practice this morning. Malkin who was a late scratch Tuesday night with an apparent illness, was at the facility this morning for a team picture and according to sources on the scene, did not appear be seriously ill to any extent.
Following last night’s game, Dan Bylsma called it a “total surprise” that Malkin didn’t play against Washington.
There is speculation that Malkin might have re-aggravated his injured right foot. His status for tomorrow’s game is unknown at this moment.
Meanwhile, winger Chris Kunitz (shoulder) did not practice and will not play tomorrow night in the Penguins home finale.
Indications are that the Penguins may hold Kunitz out until the playoffs. His suffered a shoulder injury in Saturday’s game and after having some swelling and tenderness around the shoulder, Kunitz had an MRI Monday afternoon.
A high ranking official said the MRI was done for precautionary reasons. The injury is not believed to be serious but will likely keep him out for at least a week.
Defenseman Sergei Gonchar was given a maintaince day and also did not practice this morning.
After being pulled in Tuesday’s loss, Marc Andre Fleury will start for the Penguins in their home finale. Brent Johnson is expected to start Saturday against Atlanta.
