Penguins Top Sabres in Preseason Opener, 4-1

A Penguins team comprised largely of on-the-bubble-skaters and reinforced by a handful of regulars proved to be too much for a Sabres squad stocked with not-ready-for-prime-time-players. Indeed, the Pens had a relatively easy time of it, coasting past the visitors, 4-1, at PPG Paints Arena last night.

Connor Dewar, Bryan Rust, Avery Hayes and Elmer Söderblom (empty netter) were the black-and-gold goal-getters.

I didn’t watch the proceedings from opening faceoff to the final horn, so take what I’m about to write with a grain of salt. But the following players stood out to me.

I was very impressed with the Owen Pickering–Harrison Brunicke tandem, the former in particular. Pickering displayed excellent mobility for such a big man (6’5” 213). On at least two separate occasions, the rangy defender broke up plays in the neutral zone. While Brunicke didn’t quite have the same impact to my eye, goodness can he skate.

Rust (a goal and two helpers) was the best player on the ice, bar none. He was an absolute force, driving play literally every time he hopped over the boards. I confess, accurately or not, I view Rusty as a bit of a Sidney Crosby creation and am dubious about him anchoring his own line. But if last night was any indication? Two thumbs up!

True to his rep, Andrei Kuzmenko (an assist) can’t skate a lick, yet is highly skilled and ever dangerous in the offensive zone. Provided he sees ample power-play duty, he could be a weapon.

I thought Filip Hållander (a team-high five shots on goal) was very solid, just like last season. As always, the peppery Hayes put his speed and tenacity to good use. Justin Brazeau was around the puck a lot and used his size effectively. Ryan Graves was surprisingly physical, but typically blundered when he abandoned the net front to join partner Chase Pietila behind the cage during an ill-advised sequence.

Kids I didn’t notice so much? Sorry to say, Tristan Broz and Tanner Howe. I didn’t realized Howe had suited up until I checked the box score following the game. (Ouch.)

Between the pipes, Sergei Murashov looked totally in control while stopping all 13 shots he faced. Joel Blomqvist took over midway through the contest and yielded a power-play goal from distance to Jake Richard. Other than that, he was airtight, making 10 saves.

In the not-so-good-news department, Ben Kindel exited following a strong first period with an apparent lower-body injury. He’s listed as day-to-day, as are Brazeau and $32-million man Ville Koivunen.

A final thought. The Penguins looked like…well…the Penguins, employing the aggressive, push-the-play style that served us so well last season. A testament to the fine work Dan Muse and his staff have done to prepare the troops following a relatively brief camp.

The Pens host the Red Wings tonight and plan to dress a lot more regulars. The Ruck Twins will suit up as well.