Pensburgh link hits: Mats Sundin's return, Alexei Kovalev fired up

Penguins news and stories

We all know Bill Thomas grew up in the Pittsburgh area, but did you know he grew up a Theo Fleury fan?  He was also in the crowd for Game 6 in last year's Stanley Cup Finals.  That's loyalty.  [NHL.com]

Mike Milbury gives his take on the Michel Therrien shakeup.  [TSN]

Around the NHL

Mats Sundin made his triumphant return to the Air Canada Centre Saturday night to the soundtrack of cheering Toronto fans.  So much for the dramatic boos.  In fact, the cheers didn't stop all night long, even when he netted the game-winning shootout goal in Hollywood-scripted fashion. [Pension Plan Puppets]

After Canadiens GM Bob Gainey told Alexei Kovalev to stay home for the Penguins game, Kovi responded the following game with a one-goal, two-assist night. [Habs Eyes on the Prize]

Although the Penguins stand a very minimal chance of catching the Devils, the New York Islanders downed the did their past to down NJ 4-0 the other night.  I wasn't the only one left speechless on this one.  [Lighthouse Hockey]

Speaking of the Islanders, New York picked up Dean McAmmond and a draft pick from Ottawa in exchange for Mike Comrie and Chris Campoli.  [THN]

Denis Gauthier of the LA Kings is suspended.  Again.  This time for two games on what is, I believe, an obvious cheap shot.  Check out his hit on San Jose's Patrick Marleau and judge for yourself.  [From the Rink]