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Penguins Suspend Newly Acquired D-Man After Bold AHL Decision
The Penguins have suspended newly acquired defenseman Egor Zamula after he failed to report to their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have suspended newly acquired defenseman Egor Zamula after he failed to report to their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, marking the second time this season the organization has taken such action with a player.
Zamula was acquired earlier this week from the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for forward Philip Tomasino, but sources indicate the Penguins were aware there was a possibility the 25-year-old would not report to the AHL. Zamula’s preference is to remain in the NHL, though Pittsburgh currently does not have roster space available on the blue line.
At this point, it remains unclear whether Zamula will ultimately join Wilkes-Barre. That said, the Penguins are not believed to be overly concerned with the situation.
One team source described the outcome as a “win-win,” noting that if Zamula reports, he’ll be given an opportunity to play, and if not, the team gains additional salary cap flexibility and an open roster spot — both viewed as valuable assets.
Zamula has appeared in 168 career NHL games with the Flyers and brings experience, but his short-term fit in Pittsburgh remains uncertain.
Earlier this season, the Penguins suspended 2023 third-round pick Emil Pieniniemi after he initially refused to report to the team’s ECHL affiliate. Pieniniemi has since returned and played games in Wheeling.
Pittsburgh, winners of four straight games, is set to face Columbus on Sunday afternoon.
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