Penguins Get Key Injury News Before Crucial Game

usatsi_22894093_168388034_lowres

PITTSBURGH – When the Pittsburgh Penguins returned to the ice for a full-team practice ahead of a huge matchup with the Detroit Red Wings, an important face was missing. Lars Eller was absent from the practice, and recent recall, Radim Zohorna skated in his place.

Following the skate, Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan stated that Eller missed due to an illness. The Penguins have been hit with a stomach bug for a little over a week, but they’ve battled through, riding a nine-game point streak.

Eller did not take part in the morning skate ahead of the battle with the Red Wings, but Sullivan stated Eller will be available for the game. Sullivan said things aren’t 100% at the moment, but progress appears to have been made.

“We’ll see how he is throughout the rest of the course of the day,” Sullivan said. “The rest of the lineup will be a game-time decision. He is available.”

If Eller cannot play, he joins a list of players who have missed time due to whatever illness has spread around the locker room. Michael Bunting was an early exit to start the spread before Tristan Jarry missed out on a scheduled start in New York.

John Ludvig was also sidelined with the sickness and has yet to return to the ice.

Zohorna seems to be the name at the ready if Eller is unable to perform. Zohorna skated in Eller’s third-line spot with Reilly Smith and Valtteri Puustinen.

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

Penguins Next Matchup Could Decide Playoff Fate

Penguins Never Lost Hope in Playoff Push

Penguins Preview: Superstar Defender Elevating Game

Penguins Key to Completing Playoff Comeback

Former Rival Makes Bold Prediction About Penguins