Gonchar returns as development coach and Sprong stays

Today has seen two pieces of news that will please Penguins fans. Sergei Gonchar has returns to the organisation after being unsuccessful during his Professional Tryout in the summer. He has been appointed as a defenseman development coach. His role will involve with him working with the Penguins and Wilkes-Barre defeseman to tutor and help them. He will also scout European tournaments, so that could involve events such as the Spengler Cup.

Gonchar had a fine career in the the NHL and it saw him play 1301 games over 20 years. His final season was with the Montreal Canadiens last season. Over his career he put up 220 goals and 591 assists to become the highest scoring Russian defenceman. His experience will be invaluable to the Penguins younger defencemen.

The second piece of news is that, whilst it hasn't been officially confirmed, it is all but expected that Daniel Sprong will stay for the rest of the season. Just like Olli Maatta the ELC will see a year burnt. It will be a lot better for his development I feel as he is too good for the CHL and ineligible for the AHL.

I would like to see Sprong given more time in the top 6 as that is where his career path will likely see him end up. He has his first goal and he will be hungry for more as he is a determined and driven person who has been through a lot to get where he is. Hopefully the Penguins don't mishandle him and damage his performance.