Penguins coach Mike Sullivan said Penguins goaltender Tristan Garry will not dress Thursday in Dallas due to a lower-body injury. Here’s what you need to know:
- Sullivan did not have a schedule for Gary’s absence after Thursday night.
- Gary started Wednesday’s game against Colorado, recording 28 saves in the 5-2 win that ended a four-game losing streak.
- He missed time earlier in the season with multiple injuries and returned on February 20.
- Casey DeSmith will start Thursday’s game against the Stars.
background story
Gary played well in the Penguins’ victory over the Avalanche in Denver on Wednesday. He also spoke after the game and showed no signs of injury, but he wasn’t feeling well when he got up on Thursday.
He’s played sparingly this season – making just 16 appearances – since suffering a lower-body injury at the Winter Classic on January 2. Shortly after his return, he suffered an upper body injury that forced him to miss another chunk of time. 890 save percentage in his 16 starts this calendar year.
The Penguins recalled Dustin Tokarski from the AHL on an emergency basis. He was expected to arrive in Dallas in time to back up DeSmith, who will start against the Stars. DeSmith, at least consistently, has been the Penguins’ best goaltender over the past three months. – Russian
What does this mean for Pittsburgh?
The Penguins have already beaten four of their six most anticipated defensemen. So losing Gary – if he missed more than one game – would be a huge blow to their playoff chances. They started Thursday with a wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference.
Pittsburgh has made the playoffs for 16 consecutive seasons in the NHL. – Russian
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