The Pittsburgh Penguins reassigned defenseman Ilya Solovyov to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the AHL on Saturday ahead of their game against the Ottawa Senators.
Roster Move For Playing Time
Solovyov, 26, has played in only three games this campaign, with his most recent appearance coming on October 24 during a 3-2 victory against the Nashville Predators. Head coach Dan Muse explained that the roster move is intended to provide Solovyov with consistent game action, similar to the reasoning behind his previous assignment to the AHL earlier in the season.
“It’s been awhile now. Hasn’t played in a bit,” Muse said. “So, it’s an opportunity to play.”
Solovyov did not require waivers for this transaction because he had not spent 30 days with the NHL team nor played 10 games since his October 18 recall following his initial waiver placement on October 9.
Trevor van Riemsdyk Nears Return
The roster adjustment coincides with veteran defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk returning to team practices. Van Riemsdyk featured in the first five games of the season before suffering a lower-body injury in mid-October, keeping him sidelined since October 9, the exact date Solovyov was first waived.
While the 35-year-old van Riemsdyk has not yet been officially activated from injured reserve, the team anticipates his return in the near future. Muse indicated that the coaching staff prefers a gradual buildup for the veteran blueliner.
“We’re going to get some more practices [is the] plan,” Muse said. “Being out there with the team skate, a couple team skates now, some more practice time. So, that’s the current plan.”
The Penguins prepare to face the Ottawa Senators in their upcoming matchup.
