Head Coach Mike Sullivan Keeps Fourth Line Together Despite Other Changes

Mike Sullivan Sites Consistent Play in the Fourth Liners

This year, the Penguins top 3 lines have been switched up because of play and injury. Crosby is without both of his wingers, and Malkin has had 7 different wingers this year.

But for the most part Mike Sullivan has left the line of Jansen Harkins, Noel Acciari and Jeff Carter together.

As reported by Post-Gazette writer Matt Vensel, Sullivan said;

Only Three Other Duos Have Played Together This Season More Than Carter and Acciari

Although Harkins is new to the line after injury took Matt Neito out of the lineup, the tandem of Carter and Acciari have logged 278 minutes playing together. In that span, they also were only on the ice for 5 goals against.

The objective of the Pens fourth line is to win faceoffs and defend. Which they do rather well. Carter ranks sixth in the NHL in defensive zone faceoffs. Acciari is also 55% in that category. And once the Penguins can get out of their zone, any offense produced is a bonus.

The Trio Lacks Offensive Production Totaling Six Even Strength Goals

When asked about their production on offensive, Harkins chimed in;



Many NHL teams get production from the fourth line. And it would help if Pittsburgh could as well. But when asked about the use of the fourth line, Sullivan is happy with their use in the role he needs them.


So for now, expect to see one consistent line on the Penguins team.

As Read On: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette - As the rest of the lineup churns, Mike Sullivan keeps Jeff Carter and the Penguins' fourth line together. Why?