Penguins forced to make a trade

Bad news fell upon the Pittsburgh Penguins last night when starter Matt Murray sustained a lower-body injury against the Philadelphia Flyers. 

While the team is awaiting further information, Jonathan Bombulie of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review writes the Pens will move forward with Tristan Jarry and will likely recall Casey DeSmith from the AHL. However, any significant injury to Murray could force general manager Jim Rutherford to make a trade.

Back in October, Rutherford waived backup Antti Niemi and mentioned that he would not rush to add another netminder, unless it was necessary. 

“We’ll just see how this situation is,” Rutherford said back on Oct. 24. 

“We’re not in a situation now where we have to move that quick. We’re early in the year. If we get to a point where we have to change course or move quickly, then like anything, we’ll look at all options.”

Murray has started 20 of 26 games for the Penguins this season, posting an 11-7-1 record with a .906 save percentage and a 2.95 goals-against average. The Pens currently own the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference and might be forced to make a significant move to ensure a spot in the postseason.