The Pittsburgh Penguins have suspended Newly acquired defenseman Egor Zamula after failing to report to their AHL affiliate in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton marks the second time this season the organization has taken such action with a player.
Zamula was acquired from the Philadelphia Flyers earlier this week in exchange for forward Philip Tomasino, but sources indicate the Penguins were aware the 25-year-old might not report to the AHL. Zamula’s preference is to remain in the NHL, although Pittsburgh currently has no roster space available on the blue line.
At this time, it remains unclear whether Zamula will ultimately join Wilkes-Barre. That said, the Penguins are not believed to be too concerned about the situation.
One team source described the outcome as a “win-win,” noting that if Zamula reports, he will get the opportunity to play, and if not, the team will get additional salary cap flexibility and an open roster spot – both seen as valuable assets.
Zamula has played in 168 NHL games with the Flyers and brings experience, but his short-term fit in Pittsburgh remains uncertain.
Earlier this season, the Penguins waived Emil Pieniniemi ahead of the 2023 third-round pick after he initially declined to report to the team’s ECHL affiliate. Pieniniemi has since returned and played games in Wheeling.
Pittsburgh, winner of four straight games, faces Columbus on Sunday afternoon.
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