Game Thread: Penguins @ Oilers - Perron & Arcobello Return

Many have criticized Edmonton for rushing injured players back too soon, as reports from former and current Oilers have surfaced to support this view. Last game, Taylor Hall returned to the lineup after sustaining an ankle injury, but left with another "foot injury" before the final buzzer. Benoit Pouliot also exited with a similar injury. For proponents of the tanking for McDavid strategy, this is music.

How to Tune In

Game time is 6:00 PM MT tonight. You can catch the action on Sportsnet.

What to Watch for From the Oilers

Iiro Pakarinen was called up from OKC due to the aforementioned injuries, and word is he'll see some action on the top line in place of Taylor Hall. He's been solid in the AHL, going 17-11-28 in 39 games. It'll be tough sledding for that line tonight as they're sure to see some of Crosby or Malkin—or both—as Geno is slated to return to the Penguins' lineup tonight.

What to Watch for From the Penguins

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From our friends over at PensBurgh:

David Perron is in the opposite situation, having just traveled the other way. He talks to the Oilers media about acclimating to his new team as fast as possible.

One thing Perron says he can't afford to do if he is to play on Sidney Crosby's line is to stand around watching him, which he sometimes catches himself doing in practice.

Sounds like Perron is having some fun playing with the best player in the league. He's scored nine points in his twelve games with Pittsburgh, and I would not be the least bit surprised to see the curse of the ex-Oilers on full display tonight.

Final Thought

Anyone else want to see Perron score 5 tonight? Or is it just me?

— Ersatz Moose (@V2Hero) February 5, 2015