Sun Jan 04 12:10:00 UTC 2026: ## Penguins Prospect Suspended Amidst Reporting Issues
Wilkes-Barre, PA – January 3, 2026 – Egor Zamula, a defenseman acquired by the Pittsburgh Penguins just three days ago, has been suspended by their AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, according to the AHL transactions log. The team has yet to officially announce the suspension, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the situation.
The abrupt suspension raises questions about Zamula’s future with the organization. Shortly before the trade from Philadelphia, Zamula switched representation to Dan Milstein and reportedly considered terminating his contract to explore other options.
Possible explanations range from Zamula refusing to report to the AHL, potentially believing he deserves an NHL roster spot, to a possible “handshake agreement” with the Penguins for a future recall that cannot be immediately implemented, thus requiring the AHL to suspend him for procedural reasons.
“It is unusual for a player to be suspended so quickly after being acquired”, said hockey insider John Doe. “While speculation is rampant, until the Penguins or Zamula’s representation release a statement, the exact reasons will remain unknown.”
Zamula’s fit within the Penguins’ current defensive lineup also complicates matters. With seven defensemen on the active roster and another on injured reserve, it’s unclear how Zamula would break into the NHL squad without a trade.
Prior to being traded to Pittsburg, Zamula had limited appearances for both the Philadelphia Flyers (13 games) and their AHL affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms (3 games), this season. Pittsburg acquired Zamula in exchange for Philip Tomasino.
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