Previewing the Pittsburgh Penguins’ fourth line

May 14, 2013; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Craig Adams (27) on the ice against the Ottawa Senators during the third period in game one of the second round of the 2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs at the CONSOL Energy Center. The Pittsburgh Penguins won 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Penguins fourth line is not one of the best in the league, but although they rarely scored last year they have some of the best penalty killers in the NHL.

The center on the fourth line in 2013-14 is most likely going to be Joe Vitale. He was the center there for almost the whole regular season in 2013 and did a very good job winning face-offs. He may seem short and a bit of a lightweight, but he can still check like there’s no tomorrow. He doesn’t score often but he can bring a great physical game to the Penguins. I expect him to be the center for the whole regular season this year and have his best season yet.

One of the wingers is going to be Craig Adams. The Penguins resigned Adams over the offseason to a two-year contract. He is by far the best penalty killer on this team. He clears the puck very well and can skate very well. He doesn’t score a lot either, but his signing was essential to the Penguins PK because Matt Cooke left via free agency.

The other winger is going to be Tanner Glass. Tanner is entering the final year of his two-year contract. He is a big player and brings a very physical game to the Penguins. His checks are ferocious and can really hurt people. He doesn’t score much either – just one goal last season – but he is still a very good fourth line winger. He is also used on the PK sometimes.

This fourth line has the opportunity to be one of the best in the NHL at what they do. I’m really looking forward to seeing what they can contribute to this team.