Carl Hagelin reacts to being benched for first two Final game.

It's a bittersweet type of deal for Carl Hagelin this year with the Penguins. After having a bit of a disappointing year with the Pens with only 22 points in 61 games, he was hurt in the early stages of the Playoffs. Now that he's healthy again, the speedy forward expected to play in his regular spot but he was forced to sit the first two games against the Predators. 

About every human would be pissed off beyond measure by such state of affairs, but Hagelin is pretty rational about it. 

 "First when you find out, it's disappointing, you're frustrated, you're [ticked] off," Hagelin said after practice Friday. "But it's the Stanley Cup Final, it's not about me, it's about the team, so whenever you get the chance, you've got to be ready."

That's the spirit! Do you think if he plays again, he will try to make a point with his attitude? Nope. 

"I'm always a positive guy," Hagelin said, "so if I get out there I'll play a good game."

The veteran saw many important games in his career, but all this is actually fairly new to him. 

"I've never been in this situation before, so it's one of those things, it's a new experience for me and I'm trying to see the positives," Hagelin said. "Whenever you get in there you've got to be ready, so it gives me some time to work on my skating and conditioning and get back there, which is good. If I get in, I'll be ready to go."

Coach Sullivan recognize what happened with him and that his injury changed the plans for the whole team. However, do expect Hagelin to miss all the games in this series, as his speed is a key aspect of the Pens lineup. 

Just think about it, the Pens have so much depth that they can sit Carl Hagelin because they feel their needs are better filled with other guys. Amazing!