Sep 28, 2015; Quebec City, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing
Brendan Gallagher(11) falls on ice in front Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Marc-Andre Fleury (29) as defenseman
Derrick Pouliot(51) defends during the third period at Videotron Centre. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports
Sending Pouliot to Wilkes-Barre Actually Makes Sense
Derrick Pouliot is a topic that causes much debate in Pittsburgh these days. But, it’s hard to argue his ineffectiveness this fall and the disappointing performance he has turned in thus far.
The writing is on the wall for Pouliot’s 2015-16 fate. Adam Clendening has been very impressive for the Pens and Brian Dumoulin has shown enough to warrant a pairing with Ian Cole. Dumoulin and Cole looked solid again last night alongside each other. Also, considering that Pouliot is the only defenseman outside of Niclas Andersen that is waiver exempt, it’s becoming more evident that he’ll start the season in the AHL.
Injuries will occur and Pouliot will see NHL time this season. Despite the outrage over the idea of sending one of your most highly regarded prospects back to the minors, it simply makes sense for this team as currently constructed. Pouliot will have a long, successful career in the NHL but he just isn’t playing his best hockey right now.
Next: Defensive With a Nice Outing