Penguins Shake Up Goalie, Forward Lineup Ahead of Devils Matchup

Murashov demoted, Skinner to start in net as Avery Hayes set to join forward group

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:37pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game, with players and the rink broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of color and shape, conveying the dynamic nature of the sport and the Penguins' lineup decisions.The Penguins' lineup changes showcase their commitment to adaptability and finding the right balance between experience and potential.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins have made several key lineup changes ahead of their upcoming game against the New Jersey Devils. Goaltender Sergei Murashov has been sent down to the AHL, with starter Stuart Skinner expected to be fit and ready to play. In the forward group, Avery Hayes is set to make his NHL debut, likely replacing the injured Connor Dewar on the fourth line.

Why it matters

These lineup moves showcase the Penguins' commitment to adaptability and finding the right balance between experience and potential. The goalie shuffle ensures depth in net, while the forward changes provide an opportunity for a young player to make an impact at the NHL level.

The details

Coach Dan Muse confirmed that Murashov is being sent back to the AHL as a precautionary measure after Skinner's recent injury scare. Skinner, the team's starting goalie, is expected to be fit and ready for Thursday's game against the Devils. In the forward group, Avery Hayes is likely to feature, partnering with Noel Acciari on the right wing. This move comes as Connor Dewar, who has been centering the fourth line, is out with an upper body injury.

  • Murashov's demotion to the AHL was announced on April 11, 2026.
  • Skinner is expected to start in net for the Penguins against the Devils on April 13, 2026.
  • Dewar's upper body injury occurred prior to the Penguins' game against the Devils on April 13, 2026.

The players

Sergei Murashov

A goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins who has been sent down to the AHL as a precautionary measure.

Stuart Skinner

The starting goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins, who is expected to be fit and ready to play against the New Jersey Devils.

Avery Hayes

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is set to make his NHL debut, likely replacing the injured Connor Dewar on the fourth line.

Connor Dewar

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is out with an upper body injury, opening up a spot for Avery Hayes on the fourth line.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who confirmed the lineup changes.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure we have a reliable backup option, especially with the physical nature of the sport and the risk of further injuries.”

— Dan Muse, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

“Avery's inclusion showcases the team's willingness to experiment and find the right balance between experience and potential.”

— Author

What’s next

The Penguins will face the New Jersey Devils on April 13, 2026, with the updated lineup featuring Skinner in net and Avery Hayes making his NHL debut.

The takeaway

The Penguins' lineup changes highlight their commitment to adaptability and finding the right balance between experience and potential. These moves showcase the team's ability to react swiftly to changing circumstances and their willingness to trust in their players' abilities.