Penguins' Shea Returns After Jaw Injury

Defenseman overcomes setback to rejoin lineup against Avalanche

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:20pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a hockey player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of black, gold, and white, conveying the Penguins' collective spirit and ability to overcome challenges.A cubist interpretation of a Penguins defenseman's determination to return to the ice after injury, reflecting the team's resilience in the face of adversity.Today in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Ryan Shea is set to return to the ice after missing a game due to a jaw injury sustained during a shootout win against the Winnipeg Jets. Shea suffered a swollen face and required stitches but is now ready to face the Colorado Avalanche, determined to extend his impressive consecutive games played streak.

Why it matters

The Penguins are already dealing with the absence of key forward Evgeni Malkin, so Shea's return is crucial as the team looks to maintain its playoff positioning in a competitive league. The team's ability to adapt and overcome injuries speaks to their depth and resilience.

The details

Shea, a defenseman, suffered the jaw injury during a shootout victory over the Winnipeg Jets, leaving him with a swollen face and requiring stitches. He missed the Penguins' subsequent loss to the Carolina Hurricanes but is now prepared to take the ice against the Colorado Avalanche. Shea has been known to play through pain and even wear a face shield, a rare sight since his college days, in order to maintain his impressive consecutive games played streak.

  • Shea suffered the jaw injury during a shootout win against the Winnipeg Jets.
  • Shea missed the Penguins' loss to the Carolina Hurricanes due to the injury.
  • Shea is set to return to the lineup against the Colorado Avalanche.

The players

Ryan Shea

A defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is known for his resilience and determination to play through injuries, including a recent jaw injury that sidelined him for one game.

Evgeni Malkin

A key forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who is currently sidelined with an undisclosed injury, leading to the recall of Ville Koivunen from the AHL to help fill the void.

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who emphasizes the importance of the team stepping up when key players are out due to injury.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, who has praised the team's mentality and resilience in the face of adversity caused by injuries.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must continue to step up when key players are out due to injury. That's the mentality of this team.”

— Sidney Crosby, Captain

“The team's ability to adapt and overcome injuries is a testament to their depth and determination.”

— Dan Muse, Head Coach

What’s next

The Penguins will need to continue their strong play and maintain their playoff positioning as they navigate through the challenges posed by injuries to key players like Shea and Malkin.

The takeaway

The Penguins' resilience and depth have been tested by a series of injuries, but their collective spirit and determination to overcome adversity have been on full display. Shea's return from a jaw injury is a testament to the team's commitment to success, even in the face of setbacks.