Penguins Place Jones on IR

The Penguins have placed Caleb Jones on IR. The 28-year-old defenseman suffered a lower-body injury while blocking a shot during the third period of the Pens’ victory over the Panthers on Thursday night.

He’s expected to miss eight weeks.

Although his metrics and stats (a lone assist in seven games) aren’t anything to write home about, by the eye test Jones seemed to be doing an effective job as Harrison Brunicke’s regular partner. In particular, I’ve been impressed with Caleb’s skating and ability to make smart, little plays.

As for options, Ryan Graves and Owen Pickering each have gotten off to strong starts for the undefeated (6-0) Baby Penguins. With a goal and four points to go with a plus-7, the much-maligned Graves has been particularly good.

Personally, I wouldn’t mind seeing Matt Dumba get first crack. He enjoyed a strong preseason that he wasn’t necessarily rewarded for, possesses a heavy shot and can skate and hit. Although a right-handed shot, he has more experience playing his off (left side) than Connor Clifton.

Whether the 13-year veteran would make an effective partner for Brunicke remains to be seen. They were paired for only 1:38 during the preseason, according to Natural Stat Trick.