Portland @ WBS Penguins 12/2

Carl Sneep will have to play at his best tonight, with the defense being as thin as it is.

The Penguins return home to battle the Portland Pirates tonight at 7:05 p.m. EST without defensemen Robert Bortuzzo and Simon Despres, who are on recall to the NHL with Pittsburgh.

They might also be without forward Niko Dimitrakos, who was released from his professional tryout contract (PTO).  I think since the PTO was expiring soon that the Pens released him and intend to sign him to a standard player contract. Dimitrakos was in the midst of a five game point scoring streak, and I would be surprised if he wasn't retained by the team. We will find out more soon as warmups are set to get under way shortly. Follow the blog on Twitter: @H_P_Hockey to get the inside scoop on that.

The Pens will have the services of Alexandre Picard, who was returned by the parent club in exchange for Despres.

Expect Brad Thiessen in net tonight, as Munroe started the last two games and gave up four goals in his last appearance on Tuesday against Norfolk.

Full in-game coverage on Twitter (link to follow us above). Recap shortly after the conclusion of tonight's game.

Go Penguins!