So the Penguins announced today the recall of one Finnish eliter, Janne Pesonen. Pesonen was signed in July 2008 to the Penguins bringing high hopes for another top forward who could contribute in the wake of Marian Hossa's departure in the off-season.
But the little-used skater has only appeared in 7 games for Pittsburgh this season and has contributed little in his 5 call-ups...perhaps because of the very little ice time he has received.
In his last call-up January 16th, 2009, when the Penguins faced the Ducks (sounds like a trip to the aviary at the zoo!), Pesonen logged 14:24 of ice time...his most yet this season. However, held scoreless again he was only utilized for one game. His previous four games for the Pens were in late November and early December...consecutive games, but hardly a chance to get things rolling and meld with a line. His ice time for those games was as follows:
DEC 08 2:55
DEC 06 5:48
DEC 04 5:54
NOV 29 7:16
Or perhaps, this time, the games continue and he is recalled and sat as healthy scratch? Kris Letang, who has missed the past 3 games as a healthy scratch is back in the line-up, however, replacing Ryan Whitney who left the team for personal reasons.
But maybe, just maybe he skates tonight against the lowly Isles and makes the best of the opportunity to show what he can do. I sure hope so as I think he has yet had a fair chance on a team that has all but fired the coach, trying to turn the faltering season back on track.
Oh, wait. They did try that one.
Well, perhaps interim head coach, Dan Bylsma will see something he likes and give Janne Pesonen a chance to impress. Trade bait, anyone?
Meanwhile, back in the AHL, Pesonen is second on the team with 16 goals and 33 assists (49 points). The time is here for the Finnish Fellow to make his mark and earn some NHL creds.
And to borrow a much-loved theme of our modern times, here's hoping so.
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