Penguins demote Despres - 01-01-12

The Penguins demoted defenseman Simon Despres to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the AHL.

A first-round pick in 2009, Despres, 20, has appeared in 13 NHL game this season and has four points (one goal, three assists).

EN Says: Despres has played like he belongs in the NHL this season. But he's still on his entry-level contract so the team can still save a little money against the salary cap by sending him to the AHL while they have a five-day break between games.

(Photo: Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)