Pittsburgh Penguins News

Hallander was originally a second-round pick of the Penguins but was traded to the Maple Leafs as a part of the Kasperi Kapanen trade last summer. With the Expansion Draft looming, the Penguins were likely to lose Jared McCann for nothing, so this trade at least brings Hallander back to the organization. The 21-year-old had 13 goals and 11 assists (24 points) in 51 game with Lulea HF (SHL) in 2021.

Graves being dealt is a product of the Seattle Expansion Draft and New Jersey lands a solid top-4 defenseman that should fit in well with their emerging young blueline. Graves, who has two years left at $3.17M AAV, had two goals and 13 assists (15 points) in 54 games with the Avalanche in 2021.

Jones is entering the final year of a two-year deal that carries an $850K cap-hit. After showing flashes of a potential top-4 defenseman in 2020, Jones was in and out of the Oilers lineup in 2021, finishing the season with just four assists in 33 games. This deal sheds nearly $4.7M in cap-space for the Blackhawks and could be something that helps them pursue Caleb's brother, Seth, in the offseason.

Unlike the first two games, Malkin took part in line rushes and power-play work during the morning skate, so it looks like he will play in Game 3 vs. the Islanders. Malkin was on PP1 and centred the second line with Jason Zucker and Kasperi Kapanen on his wings.

Malkin missed Game 1 and will be a game-time decision for Game 2. Malkin did not take part in line rushes during Monday's practice, so it doesn't appear as if he will play but keep an eye on his status as the Penguins hit the ice for warmups at 7:00 PM ET.

Clifton was a healthy scratch for Game 1 but will replace Jeremy Lauzon (undisclosed) for Game 2. Clifton had seven points (1G / 6A), 108 hits and 52 blocked shots in 44 regular-season games in 2021.

Girard has missed the last six games but will play Wednesday vs. the Kings. it's unclear who Girard will replace but it gives him the opportunity to get back up to game speed with the playoffs just around the corner.

Graves missed Saturday's game vs. the Sharks but will return tonight in San Jose. Graves will most likely replace Kyle Burroughs in the lineup.

Malkin has missed the last 23 games with a lower-body injury but will play Monday vs. the Flyers. Malkin will be back on the second line with Jason Zucker and Kasperi Kapanen and will replace Jared McCann on PP1. Malkin has scored eight goals with 16 assists in 29 games this year.