Penguins forward Egor Chinakhov’s offense has been limited thus far

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Egor Chinakhov has recorded two goals and four points across his first 11 games of the season. After missing four games due to undisclosed injuries, his early production has lagged behind expectations following a three-year contract extension signed in July with an average cap hit of $6.25 million. Head coach Dan Muse urged patience as Chinakhov works to establish rhythm and generate offensive opportunities.

Elsewhere on the roster, defensemen Sam Girard and Erik Karlsson have formed an attack-minded top defensive pairing, carrying positive shot differential metrics into Thursday's matchup against the Boston Bruins. Additionally, forward Justin Brazeau made his season debut Tuesday against the Vegas Golden Knights following a preseason leg injury, earning a net-front assignment on the second power-play unit.