Pittsburgh Penguins: 5 Thoughts From Hockeyville

Oskar Sundqvist. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Sundqvist Has Done Enough, Again

This observation goes hand-in-hand with Matt Cullen‘s performance last night. I was fully on board with the signing and still remain sold that the Pittsburgh Penguins needed Cullen for center depth. However, as I discussed previously, having him doesn’t mean Sundqvist is blocked from an NHL roster spot. It just means he has to earn it.

So far, Sundqvist has proven that he deserves the fourth line center role for the Pens. He has proved his effectiveness both at even-strength and while killing penalties. And, while he hasn’t produced points at a rate like last year’s preseason, he has created chances more frequently and looks much more confident.

Cullen hasn’t shown much throughout camp. He hasn’t stood out in any way to me. All indications are that the Pens plan to start the season with Cullen centering that line but I assume Sundqvist is making that decision tough. The great thing about Cullen is that he’s versatile and can move to wing. He can also be the thirteenth forward, which a veteran that makes only $800,000 is perfectly suited for.

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