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Plotnikov adds more physicality and puck-control skills to second line for Penguins

Evgeni Malkin and Patric Hornqvist played nearly 20 games on the same line in 2014-15, so building chemistry this preseason hasn’t been a Herculean task.

Sergei Plotnikov, however, was busy skating his way around Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League last season, long before a spot next to his famed countryman on an NHL line was a glimmer in his eye.

Somehow, a natural trio already is emerging from what was expected to simply be a talented duo.

The line combined for two goals on the way to a 4-2 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning Tuesday night in Johnstown, Pa.