Updates on Injured Penguins Nearing Return

The injury bug hit the Pittsburgh Penguins really hard to start 2024, in the most crucial time yet. As the Penguins try surging into the playoffs, they got 3 injuries to start the New Year, John Ludvig, Reilly Smith and Matt Nieto.

Ludvig nearing return

The 23 year old defenseman resumed skating on his own this morning after being place on IR on January 3rd. The former third round pick has been a pleasant surprise after being claimed from the Florida Panthers at the beginning of the year. While Ludvig has struggled offensively, he has been key to the Penguins defense.

Updates on Nieto and Reilly

Status quo remains on Matt Nieto after suffering an injury and had a timeframe of 6-8 weeks. He's expected to be back before the NHL trade deadline. Nieto, has been a key player to the Penguins penalty kill this season and very serviceable on the 4th line. Jansen Harkins has been been playing in Nieto's spot since the injury.

Reilly Smith will have a clearer update as the week progresses. He is expected to travel with the team but will not play. Hopefully we see Reilly Smith back as soon as possible to provide some scoring for the Penguins Top 6. We expect more details to come in the coming weeks.


As read on: Penguins injury updates