Penguins Line Shuffle: Lizotte Injured, Kindel Steps Up as Top Line Center (2026)

The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing a lineup shuffle after Sidney Crosby's injury at the Winter Olympics. Coach Dan Muse has made some strategic changes to the team's top three lines, with Ben Kindel stepping up as the new center of the top line. But here's where it gets interesting: Blake Lizotte, who was originally set to play, is now out with a lower-body injury, likely sustained during a hit in the second period against the Vegas Golden Knights. This means Connor Dewar will take his place, moving from the fourth line to the middle of the second line with Avery Hayes and Noel Acciari. The Penguins' fourth line, known for its strong performance, will now have a new dynamic with Dewar and Acciari, who will also help with faceoffs. The other significant change is Kevin Hayes returning to the lineup, centring the third line with Anthony Mantha and Justin Brazeau. But the real controversy lies in the move of rookie Ben Kindel to the top line, a bold decision that could impact the team's fortunes. Will this move pay off, or will it be a missed opportunity for Kindel, who has been performing well as a middle-six center? The Penguins' fans and experts alike are buzzing with opinions, so we invite you to join the discussion and share your thoughts in the comments. And this is the part most people miss: the impact of these changes on the team's overall strategy and performance against the Boston Bruins.

Penguins Line Shuffle: Lizotte Injured, Kindel Steps Up as Top Line Center (2026)
Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Rubie Ullrich

Last Updated:

Views: 5991

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (72 voted)

Reviews: 95% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rubie Ullrich

Birthday: 1998-02-02

Address: 743 Stoltenberg Center, Genovevaville, NJ 59925-3119

Phone: +2202978377583

Job: Administration Engineer

Hobby: Surfing, Sailing, Listening to music, Web surfing, Kitesurfing, Geocaching, Backpacking

Introduction: My name is Rubie Ullrich, I am a enthusiastic, perfect, tender, vivacious, talented, famous, delightful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.