Pittsburgh placed defenseman Sam Girard on injured reserve and recalled forward Avery Hayes from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Hayes gets an opportunity as injuries thin the Penguins’ forward group, while Ilya Solovyov continues filling in for Girard.

By the Numbers
  • Girard had 1 goal and 6 assists in 9 games, averaging 18:44 per game.
  • Hayes leads Wilkes-Barre/Scranton with 5 goals and 9 points in 6 games.
  • Hayes scored 24 goals and 39 points in 42 AHL games last season.
Yes, But

Girard skated on his own before Thursday’s morning skate, but coach Dan Muse has provided no update on his status. The 28-year-old has been listed as day-to-day since leaving last Saturday’s game.

State of Play
  • Girard is on IR; Solovyov has taken his place in the lineup.
  • Forward Bryan Rust is also on IR and is expected to be re-evaluated in about six weeks.
  • Ben Kindel is on IR, with Rutger McGroarty previously recalled to help cover the absences.
What’s Next

Hayes will get a chance to contribute at the NHL level, where he has scored 5 goals in 16 appearances. Pittsburgh will await further clarity on Girard’s recovery and Rust’s return timeline.

Bottom Line

Hayes’ strong AHL start gives Pittsburgh a timely depth option, but multiple injuries leave the Penguins managing significant lineup uncertainty.