In a move that has been anticipated for a while now, the Penguins announced that they have recalled winger Daniel Sprong from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the AHL. To make room for him on the roster, Pittsburgh has sent center Dominik Simon back to the minors.
Sprong’s first full professional season has certainly been a success. In 29 games at the AHL level this season, he has 18 goals and 10 assists; his goal total slots him second league-wide. However, management had said earlier in the season that they wanted him to work on his all-around game before giving him a look with the big club and it appears they’re pleased with the progress he has made there.
This won’t be Sprong’s first stint with Pittsburgh. He made the team out of training camp back in 2015-16, just months after they drafted him in the second round (46th overall). He got into 18 games that season, scoring twice before being returned back to junior.
It will be interesting to see where Sprong slots into their forward unit. As a gifted offensive talent, it stands to reason that it would make sense to use him in an offensive role right away but many teams still start their recalls on the fourth line and ask them to work their way up.
[Related: Penguins Depth Chart]
As for Simon, he has played in six games with Pittsburgh this season, recording two assists while averaging 11:28 per night. He has been much more productive in the AHL though, tallying three goals and 13 helpers in 20 games.
It’s about time. It’s worth a try. What the heck is wrong with The Pens?
Ummmm…injuries? Maybe you’ve heard of them?
Ummmmm…Not an excuse. They had them last year and won the Cup. Every team has injuries.