The Pittsburgh Penguins have placed forward Noel Acciari on injured reserve due to a concussion sustained from a hit by Jets defence man Brenden Dillon on February 6, resulting in a three-game suspension for Dillon. Acciari, 32, has already missed two games, and the timeline for his return is uncertain, as recoveries from concussions vary widely. Although he is eligible to be removed from IR at any time, his absence could extend for weeks.
Acciari has faced challenges in his inaugural season with the Penguins, recording three goals and one assist in 39 games, marking his lowest points-per-game rate since his early NHL days with the Bruins in 2015-16. His decreased production is attributed to his limited offensive zone starts under head coach Mike Sullivan, with just 12.9 percent of his even-strength shifts beginning in the offensive zone, significantly below his career average.
Despite his lower Corsi share at even strength, suggesting defensive weaknesses, Acciari has been effective in a shutdown role, particularly alongside Jeff Carter and Jansen Harkins, controlling 55 percent of expected goals in their time together. However, with Harkins also on IR due to a concussion, this successful line is now sidelined, leaving the Penguins with the minimum 20 players on the active roster and only 11 forwards.
Acciari’s three-year, $6M contract signed in July, which includes trade protection, may now seem costly considering his current situation. His absence leaves the Penguins with limited options, possibly forcing them to dress 11 forwards and seven defensemen in their upcoming game against the Panthers due to cap constraints preventing an additional recall from the AHL.
