They’re still good friends off the ice getting dinner whenever possible and hanging out regularly, girlfriends included.
But as the Penguins’ quartet of young wingers — Conor Sheary, Bryan Rust, Tom Kuhnhackl and Scott Wilson — have adjusted to life as regular NHL players (no longer rookies), each has begun to establish his own identity and style within the system.
During last year’s playoff run, they were praised for the energy and enthusiasm they brought to practice every day. Coaches and players, veterans included, cited that emotional aspect as critical to the team’s Stanley Cup title.
None of the four played more than 44 games last year, though.