Latvian hockey players perform in NHL preseason games

NHL preseason Artūrs Šilovs Latvian hockey players Pittsburgh Penguins Boston Bruins

Latvian hockey players are making their mark during the NHL preseason. Artūrs Šilovs, goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins, expressed feeling more mature and prepared for his second season after overcoming travel-related issues. Despite a challenging preseason game where he faced 23 shots and saved 69.6%, Penguins head coach Dan Bylsma defended Šilovs, noting his progress from the previous season.

Other Latvian players also recorded productive performances. Dans Ločmelis earned an assist for the Boston Bruins in their 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, finishing with a +2 rating. Zemgus Girgensons provided an assist for the Tampa Bay Lightning, though the team eventually lost 2-3 in overtime to the Nashville Predators. Alberts Šmits contributed an assist for the New York Rangers in their 3-4 loss to the New York Islanders.

In other news, Elvis Merzļikins will remain sidelined for the Columbus Blue Jackets due to a shoulder operation performed in August.