​IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectThe Pittsburgh Penguins schlacked the Buffalo Sabres in the first preseason game for both clubs, and we’ve got the full analysis of which players made their case and who did not. Elsewhere in the Daily, an interesting potential trade partner for Connor Hellebuyck emerged, but take it with a pinch of salt. There could be some internal pushback regarding NHL expansion. And the St. Louis Blues are floating their bottom-six overflow on the trade market, too. It was good to get back to the barn Monday night. The days go quickly when you’re working a full day, take a pre-game nap (As close to 3 p.m. as I can get), and head to the arena by 5 p.m. for another full day. The traveling beat writers, me included, were introduced to the new president of business operations, Marcel Braithwaite, in an informal setting. Monday was his first day on the job, so it wasn’t a press conference or anything informative, but he doesn’t lack for personality or good humor. The Penguins’ business operations might undergo some changes under new ownership. The FSG folks certainly had a very streamlined way of doing things that, to me, detached the organization from the city. It felt like things were run from Boston, and the Penguins were nothing more than a branch office. It will be interesting to see how the Hoffmanns handle the house that Mario built. They’ve already been far more respectful of it. To the hockey we go. Pittsburgh PenguinsPittsburgh Hockey Now: First, the bad news. At some point during the first period, Ben Kindel suffered an injury and did not return for the second period. Here’s the updated story on Kindel’s injury.The game was, well, they played the game. Buffalo didn’t exactly bring a competitive squad, which was disappointing, but players still have to play. So, here’s who looked good and which pair of Penguins prospects stood out. PHN+: We also did a big story—an honest chat with a pair of prospects who are former high draft picks who are not likely to make the team, but at least one probably should. How are Rutger McGroarty and Tristan Broz handling the reduced opportunity in camp, and what specifically are they working on to reach the next level permanently? Here’s our in-depth Penguins feature. NHL Trade Talk, News, & National Hockey NowNHLtraderumors.me: Some movement in the Adam Fantilli contract squabble with the Columbus Blue Jackets? Maybe a little. Columbus has been aided by Cutter Gauthier, who has agreed to an AAV of $13.5 million. Gauthier has better stats than Fantilli, so what’s going on? Sportsnet: Elliotte Friedman, on the Sportsnet TV side, discussed potential pushback from the owners over expansion. Friedman rightfully notes that Gary Bettman is a powerful person, and it can take a spine of steel to stand up to him (I’d love to see one of these Bettman beatdowns that supposedly have billionaires wetting their pants). Will the owners push back on Bettman’s expansion pla