The Penguins will be tracking Plotnikov's performance closely Saturday after a disappointing first game Thursday.

EDGE Analysis

Pittsburgh head coach Mike Johnston called Plotnikov's showing "tense and nervous" but then added that Thursday was the Russian's first NHL contest. If Plotnikov does fall down the depth chart then look for David Perron to skate with Evgeni Malkin and Patric Hornqvist.

Plotnikov, who is set to skate with Evgeni Malkin and Patric Hornqvist at even strength, continues to see time on the team's second power-play unit.

EDGE Analysis

Plotnikov has yet to really show the prerequisite skill necessary to play full-time with Malkin and Hornqvist but that could come as he acclimates to the North American rink size and style of play. He's already stood out by his physical game and willingness to dig the puck out of corners. The Pens won't know what they have in Plotnikov until the bullets start flying in the regular season.

Plotnikov is the frontrunner to skate with Evgeni Malkin and Patric Hornqvist heading into regular season, the Penguins' Web site reports.

EDGE Analysis

Coach Mike Johnston is impressed with Plotnikov's willingness to go into the corners. "Most think a lot of European players aren't physical, they're more skilled," Johnston said. "But he's a little bit of a blend type of player because he's a hard player to play against and I just like when he has the puck, he's really tough to knock off the puck. And Geno's going to find open space, you know that. So once they start to get a feel for each other, I think you'll start to see a few more open opportunities around the net."

Plotnikov netted a back-handed goal 14 seconds into a 4-2 victory over Tampa Bay on Tuesday.

EDGE Analysis

It's becoming more of a question as to which line the Russian will skate than whether or not he'll make the Opening Night lineup. Most likely Plotnikov will start out as a bottom six winger, but there's a chance (albeit a long one) that he skates with Evgeni Malkin on the second line. It's thought that David Perron will serve as a linemate with Malkin and Patric Hornqvist but Plotnikov is doing his best to put the pressure on coach Mike Johnston.

Plotnikov, who picked up an assist Saturday, has played well in the role of a bottom-six forward thus far in camp.

EDGE Analysis

The Russian has seen fairly extensive time on the penalty kill, an area which has seen turnover since last season. He looks like a good bet to make the Opening Night roster. That said, it might take a while longer for his offense to show up.