Penguins Demote Murashov, Hayes In, Dewar Out

Roster shuffle highlights team's constant evaluation and recalibration for success

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:41am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the abstract forms of hockey players in motion, with sharp planes of black, gold, and white representing the Pittsburgh Penguins' team colors.A cubist interpretation of the strategic dance of roster moves, where players are shifted in and out with precision and purpose.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins have demoted goaltender Sergei Murashov to the AHL, while forward Avery Hayes is expected to be in the lineup, replacing the injured Connor Dewar. This roster move speaks to the team's strategic approach to player deployment and the delicate balance between rewarding proven performance and integrating new talent.

Why it matters

Roster moves in professional sports are often complex, with ripple effects that extend beyond just filling a spot. The Penguins' decision to demote Murashov and potentially insert Hayes highlights the team's constant evaluation and recalibration to maintain a competitive edge, even when dealing with minor injuries like Dewar's.

The details

Coach Dan Muse confirmed Murashov's return to the AHL, signaling a clear decision. However, Muse's coy response regarding Avery Hayes suggests the forward is likely to be in the lineup, replacing the injured Dewar, who has been a steady presence centering the fourth line. Hayes's unique skill set, including limited penalty-killing experience and not typically playing center professionally, presents both challenges and opportunities for the team's strategy and player deployment.

  • Murashov has been demoted to the AHL.
  • Hayes is expected to be in the lineup, replacing the injured Dewar, who is out day-to-day with an upper-body injury.

The players

Sergei Murashov

A goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has been demoted to the AHL.

Avery Hayes

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is expected to be in the lineup, replacing the injured Connor Dewar.

Connor Dewar

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is out day-to-day with an upper-body injury.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Blake Lizotte

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has been absent due to injury.

Noel Acciari

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is expected to pivot the fourth line with Hayes on the right wing.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This roster shuffle highlights the Penguins' constant evaluation and recalibration to maintain a competitive edge, even when dealing with minor injuries. The team must balance rewarding proven performance with the need for flexibility and the integration of new talent, a perennial tightrope walk for any successful franchise.