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With Game 2 between the Penguins and Islanders just over 24 hours away, it’s unclear whether Evgeni Malkin is any closer to being back in the lineup for Pittsburgh.
Malkin did not skate in warmups prior to Game 1, and did not play. The Penguins fell 4-3 in overtime at PPG Paints Arena on Sunday afternoon.
Malkin did skate in practice on Monday, but did not take regular line rushes.
Brian Dumoulin is not on the ice for Pens practice. He was in a lot of pain after blocking a shot in the third period of Game 1. Casey DeSmith is also absent.
— Pens Inside Scoop (@PensInsideScoop) May 17, 2021
Evgeni Malkin is present and wearing a regular jersey, but is not taking part in line rushes.
Also noteworthy from practice on Monday — Brian Dumoulin did not skate. Dumoulin was hobbled after taking a hard shot to the foot/ankle during Sunday’s game. Coach Mike Sullivan said it was a “maintenance” day for Dumoulin.
Backup goalie Casey DeSmith was also absent from practice and was said to be “day-to-day” with his injury. Given that he didn’t practice, it’s very unlikely that DeSmith will be serving as the backup goalie for Game 2, which means that Maxime Lagace would again dress and be on the bench as the second goalie.
But as is typical this time of year, everyone is a game-time decision per Mike Sullivan, so Dumoulin’s or Malkin’s status will be unknown until the Penguins take the ice tomorrow night at PPG Paints Arena.
Casey DeSmith missed practice again, leaving practically zero doubt that no changes will be made in goal for the Penguins, despite Tristan Jarry’s poor performance in the team’s Game 1 loss.
Puck drop is set for 7:30 tomorrow night at PPG Paints Arena.