Penguins lose Stanley Cup Winning Forward to Injury against Vancouver

The Pittsburgh Penguins announced via social media last night that Reilly Smith wouldn't return to the game vs the Vancouver Canucks due to an injury.

Reilly Smith's season so far

The 32 year old has had a mediocre start to the season with the Pittsburgh Penguins after being traded from the Golden Knights in the off-season for a 3rd round pick. Smith, is on his second year of his three year contract worth 5 million AAV. The forward this year has had a quiet production scoring 8 goals in 40 games so far. Despite that , his depth will be crucial to the Penguins in their final stretch so hopefully this injury won't be as serious as it seems.

How does this affect Jake Guentzel's situation?

If Reilly Smith is out long term, this can affect Jake Guentzel and the flexibility to move him at this year trade deadline. It's important to keep in mind that the Penguins management intends on competing for the Stanley Cup this year and making the playoffs. If they trade Guentzel and Reilly Smith is injured, the Penguins will find themselves with no Left wingers to play in the top 6.

Let's hope for the best case scenario for the Veteran Forward, for the sake of their playoff hopes and their activity going forward heading towards the NHL trade deadline.

As read on Daily Faceoff: Pittsburgh Penguins Lose Reilly Smith to Injury