Being an AHL franchise is no walk in the park—just when things start looking up, everything changes. And that’s exactly what the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are grappling with right now. After losing three of their top five scorers (Danton Heinen, Ville Koivunen, and Ryan Graves) to NHL call-ups, they were dealt another blow with the departure of AHL October Goalie of the Month, Sergei Murashov. But here’s where it gets interesting: despite these setbacks, the Penguins are proving their resilience. Last week, they managed a 1-1-1 record, showing they’re far from down and out.
In the world of minor league hockey, adversity is the name of the game, and it’s all about who steps up next. Enter Maxim Pavlenko, called up from the ECHL’s Wheeling Nailers, who not only filled Murashov’s skates but also earned a shutout in his first AHL start. Talk about making an entrance! For a deeper dive into the week’s action, check out Nick Hart’s recap here: Penguins Weekly Recap.
But here’s where it gets controversial: Is the constant churn of players a necessary evil for AHL teams, or does it hinder long-term success? Let’s take a closer look at the games that had fans on the edge of their seats.
Wednesday, Nov. 5 – PENGUINS 3 vs. Toronto 4 (OT)
The Penguins dominated the first 40 minutes, scoring three unanswered goals, including a blistering 16-second opener by Tristan Broz—the third-fastest in team history. Yet, the Marlies stormed back in the third period, stealing the win in overtime. And this is the part most people miss: Even in defeat, the Penguins’ early dominance showcased their potential when their stars align.
Friday, Nov. 7 – PENGUINS 4 at Rochester 6
This time, it was the Penguins’ turn to rally. Down 4-1 after the first period, Alex Alexeyev, Broz, and Sam Poulin sparked a thrilling comeback to tie the game. However, Rochester’s power-play and empty-net goals sealed their fate. Bold question: Could better penalty-killing have turned the tide?
Saturday, Nov. 8 – PENGUINS 4 vs. Utica 0
The Penguins bounced back with a shutout win, thanks to a stellar 20-save performance by Pavlenko. De St. Phalle and Poulin continued their scoring streak, while Broz notched his team-leading seventh goal. Fun fact: This game highlighted the Penguins’ depth, proving they’re more than just a one-line team.
Coach Kirk MacDonald praised the team’s effort after the Utica win, but the spotlight remains on key prospects:
- Tristan Broz is on fire with a three-game goal streak and four points in his last three games.
- Avery Hayes is sidelined with a minor injury since November 1st—a setback for the young forward.
- Owen Pickering has an assist in three games since returning to the AHL, logging significant minutes alongside Philip Kemp.
- Goalie shuffle: Filip Larsson joined Murashov in Sweden temporarily, while Joel Blomqvist is expected to return soon from a preseason injury.
Looking ahead, the Penguins face a challenging week:
Wednesday, Nov. 12 – PENGUINS at Bridgeport (10:30 a.m.)
An early start in Connecticut, where the Penguins aim to extend their eight-game winning streak at Total Mortgage Arena. Controversial take: Can they maintain their dominance against a fast-starting Islanders team?
Friday, Nov. 14 – PENGUINS vs. Bridgeport
The Islanders return to NEPA for a rematch on Fan Control Friday. Bridgeport’s league-leading 17 first-period goals make them a formidable opponent. Thought-provoking question: How will the Penguins counter their explosive start?
Saturday, Nov. 15 – PENGUINS vs. Springfield
The Penguins face the Thunderbirds, who recently added NHL veteran Milan Lucic. With only one win this season, Springfield is hungry for a turnaround. Bold prediction: This could be a trap game for the Penguins.
So, what do you think? Can the Penguins navigate this week’s challenges, or will the constant roster changes finally catch up to them? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
