Arron Asham didn’t play in the New York Rangers’ season opener against the Boston Bruins. However, Rangers coach John Tortorella inserted Asham into the lineup for Sunday’s game against his old club, the Pittsburgh Penguins, according to the New York Daily News.
Asham spent two seasons with Pittsburgh before inking a two-year deal with the Rangers over the summer.
“Obviously he brings an element of toughness,” Tortorella said. “I’m anxious to see him on that (fourth) line, and maybe elsewhere.”
Tortorella is concerned about Asham taking penalties, but at the same time he doesn’t “expect him to be a saint.” The Rangers coach is willing to allow Asham to be himself, although he does think the team can be physical without taking penalties.
Asham is projected to play alongside Jeff Halpern and Mike Rupp.
The game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET tonight.