Dustin Penner News

The Los Angeles Kings have activated forward Dustin Penner from the injured reserve list.

Penner, 30, has missed the last four games after suffering a lower body injury March 31 at Dallas. The 6-5, 245 pound forward has played 25 games with the Kings this season, recording 11 points (2G - 9A) and 14 penalty minutes. The Kings return to action tomorrow in Dallas

So, as you can see, Dustin Penner is back today (no pun intended). He was gingerly stretching a bit, early in practice, but he also took a couple friendly bumps into the boards so things seem OK.

Penner practiced on the second line and likely can play in the Kings next game. He has two goals and eight points through 30 games.

This morning, I’m told that Penner is “not ready’’ to play yet — no further explanation yet provided — so it’s likely that the Kings won’t need to make any roster moves today.

Penner was expected to draw back into the lineup tomorrow but it appears he won't. Penner has been out since November 10th with a hand injury but should draw back in shortly. At this point he is a fringe play with only two assists in 14 games.

He’s on the I.R. for seven days. He’s still a ways away. I don’t know how far, but it’s not an injury that he can help. It’s just rehab and getting better, that’s all. It takes time.

Sounds like Penner was not cleared for contact and he was simply practicing with the wrong jersey. Keep him on the IR for now.