In the wake of injuries to defenseman Ryan Shea (upper-body) and newly acquired forward Thomas Novak (lower-body), the Penguins have recalled a pair of veterans, forward Matt Nieto and defenseman Sebastian Aho (pictured), on an emergency basis.
Shea is expected to be out week-to-week, while Novak is listed as day-to-day.
Defenseman Pierre-Olivier Joseph (upper body) will be out longer term as well.
Nieto, waived on February 26, had three points (1+2) in 31 games this season for the Pens. Likewise, he has a goal and three points in eight games with the Baby Pens.
Aho, enduring an injury-riddled campaign, has seven assists in 17 games with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. The ex-Islander has yet to suit up for the big club.
The moves reflect the obvious—come hell, high water or injury—Kyle Dubas intends to keep his kiddie korps of prospects intact at Wilkes rather than subjecting them to a meaningless stretch run with the big boys.
A most wise decision.
Rick
These types of moves are head scatchers. I said this before that if Sullivan had any opportunity
he would have Nieto back in the lineup – it makes zero sense. I think everyone gets frustrated
with these types of moves – it sends mixed messages on what Dubas is trying to achieve.