Every point matters!

By: MF, 

The Pittsburgh Penguins are back at Consol Energy Center after a weekend of winning (Saturday at Detroit Red Wings and Sunday at New York Rangers) to battle the Buffalo Sabres. The Penguins are 8-1 in their last nine games and have won their last eight games versus the Sabres.

Tonight, the Penguins will once again be without the services of two strong defensemen. Brian Dumoulin is still day-to-day, and Olli Maatta is week-to-week with a lower-body injury. The team will have to play smart and not skip out on their defensive duties as a team. Even though they have been coming out with wins, Head Coach Mike Sullivan (HCMS) is not liking the slow starts. He wants to turn that around tonight and set the tone to start the game. This will also help the defense as it will give them a little breathing room instead of getting hammered at the beginning.

At the morning skate, the lines stayed the same, but the power-play saw some change. It will be interesting to see if any of the tweaks produce results. Also, tonight Marc-Andre Fleury will be getting a night off, and Matt Murray will get the nod. He is 4-2-1 on the season with a .935 save percentage and a 1.85 goals-against average.

On offense, Phil Kessel has been heating up and is the third star of the week for the National Hockey League (NHL). He has reached 50 points in the season for the eighth straight season and achieved his first five-point game in his career during Saturday’s game against the Red Wings. He also reached 300 NHL career assists. Furthermore, Sidney Crosby is leading the way for the team and scored the overtime goal to give the Penguins the win against the New York Rangers on Sunday. It was the eighth overtime winning goal for Crosby, which puts him in fourth in team history books. It was also his eighth game-winning goal on the season, which ties him for second in the NHL. Crosby’s numbers against the Sabres are nothing to joke about as he has notched 14 goals, 34 assists, and 48 points in 30 career games against them. Look for him to be a key in the Penguins getting the win.

As for the defense, Kris Letang and Trevor Daley have been leading the way with the defense suffering major injuries. Letang recorded 61:37 minutes on the ice and three points over the weekend. While Daley recorded 55:53 minutes on ice and two points during the same span. The team is 40-18-7 with Letang in the lineup and are 27-14-5 when Daley plays. To say the least, they are key to the Penguins success.

The Penguins have to get on the board early, play smart, and keep up the pressure. They cannot afford to lay back as the end of the season is approaching, and every point matters. Lets Go Pens!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards

Kunitz – Crosby – Hornqvist

Hagelin – Bonino – Kessel

Kuhnhackl – Cullen – Rust

Sheary – Fehr – Bennett 

Defense

Daley - Letang

Pouliot - Lovejoy

Cole - Schultz 

Murray in the net! 

Play by Play
PENS 5 Sabres 4 SO

Shootout
THE PENS GET THE 5-4 SHOOTOUT WIN OVER THE SABRES! GREAT EFFORT BY THE GUYS! LETANG WAS A BEAST ON DEFENSE! MURRAY WAS UNREAL IN NET! WHAT A COMEBACK! TWO POINTS! 

KESSEL SCORES! 

Murray gets a piece of Eichel's shot with his glove to direct it wide!

LETANG SCORES! FIVE-HOLE! 

Murray makes the save on O'Reilly!

Crosby is denied.


Overtime
0:00 - Well now a shootout will decide things.

0:28 - Murray makes a huge save on Eichel who had a breakaway chance!

0:38 - Hagelin fires one that is gloved up by Johnson.

1:17 - Letang with a great defensive play and he is very tired.

2:47 - Sabres control once again, but Murray is up to the task!

3:55 - Sabres get a 2 on 1 chance, but Murray shuts them down!

5:00 - Overtime is underway! The Pens need to use their speed and skill to end this one early! Lets Go Pens!


3rd Period
0:00 - We are headed to overtime as things are still tied at four.

1:33 - The Pens get some extended time in the offensive zone, but can't put one in. Sabres go the other way and Murray makes a huge save.

3:29 - Couple of tired players on the ice for the Pens as Cole ices the puck.

5:16 - Letang joins the rush, but his shot ends up breaking his stick. Nice thought though.

7:49 - The shooting mindset for the Pens seems to have gone away a bit as they are looking for the perfect play instead.

10:12 - Murray is going to have to stay sharp as the period whines down and things stay tied.

12:05 - The goalies are in a heated battle right now as both teams push.

14:00 - Kessel comes flying down the wing with a jump on the defense, but Johnson comes out to cut down the angle and rob Kessel!

14:37 - Sheary makes an unreal pass from the corner, while battling for the puck, to Bennett. Johnson is just able to get the pad out for the save.

17:20 - Murray makes an incredible glove save as Gionta outlets a pass from behind the net to Foligno in front. Murray shuts it down!

17:47 - Bogosian scores on the power play. Larssson makes a pass through the center of the Pens' zone to Bogosian, who doesn't miss. 4-4 tie game

19:34 - Lovejoy is off to the box for holding. Penalty kill time for the Pens.

20:00 - The guys are back on the ice for the third! The Pens need to keep up the hard work and not let up on the Sabres! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - Second period comes to a close and the Pens gain the 4-3 lead over the Sabres!

0:05 - Sabres power play ends.

0:48 - BONINO SCORES A SHORTY! Hagelin goes behind the net to force Johnson to play the puck! Hagelin gains control and passes to Bonino in front! Bonino puts it in the wide open net! 4-3 Pens

1:13 - KUHNHACKL SCORES A SHORTY! Letang sends the puck up! Cullen and Kuhnhackl get a 2 on 1 chance! Cullen waits for Ristolainen to turn over his stick! When he does, he passes over to Kuhnhackl who puts it in! 3-3 tie game

2:05 - Now the Sabres are getting a power play as Fehr is called for tripping. Big penalty kill for the Pens.

3:46 - Sabres kill off the Pens' power play. Kessel had the best chance, but Johnson robs him.

5:46 - Pens head onto the power play as Fasching sits for hooking.

7:36 - Bennett has a open net chance after Johnson bobbles the puck when he comes out to play it, but it is blocked.

10:41 - Hornqvist rings one off the crossbar! The Pens are getting more physical and hammering the Sabres.

14:05 - SHEARY SCORES! Crosby is knocked down, but stays with it to keep the puck in the offensive zone! Sheary comes up with the bouncing puck and blows a shot past Johnson! 3-2 Sabres

16:44 - Great shift by the first line of the Pens following the goal. Johnson holds strong, but the Pens are starting to pressure more.

18:32 - LOVEJOY SCORES! The Pens get a three-man rush as Lovejoy jumps into the play! Rust makes a great cross pass to Lovejoy, who puts one past Johnson! 3-1 Sabres

19:08 - Kunitz and Ristolianen are set free.

20:00 - Time for the second period! We still have 52 seconds of 4 on 4 hockey! The Pens need to wake up, get traffic in front of Johnson, and get some goals on the board! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period horn sounds and the Pens are down 3-0 to the Sabres.

0:59 - McCabe scores. McCabe comes flying in all alone to receive a pass and put it past Murray. 3-0 Sabres

1:08 - Now time for some 4 on 4 hockey as Kunitz and Ristolainen sit for roughing.

1:32 - Shot mentally starting to take over the Pens as they are down by two.

2:41 - The Pens are not getting enough traffic on offense. When they do, Johnson on been on them. They have to get traffic in front and create second chances.

5:34 - Gorges is set free and the Pens power play is over.

5:55 - O'Reilly scores a shorthanded goal. Legwand gets the first shot that tickles through the five-hole of Murray, but Daley is able to save the day. However, the puck goes off Kessel's stick and back to the front of the net. O'Reilly puts in the loose puck. 2-0 Sabres

7:34 - Back onto the power play for the Pens as Gorges takes a seat for holding.

7:59 - The power play for the Pens comes to an end. Bonino gets a great chance in front, but isn't able to get it past Johnson.

9:59 - Now the Pens will get a crack at the power play as Fasching is sent to the box for hooking.

10:34 - Moulson scores on the power play. Moulson gets the big rebound off Murray's pad save and is able to control to put it into the open net. 1-0 Sabres

12:17 - The first power play will go to the Sabres as Hagelin takes a seat for hooking.

12:47 - Great fore-check by the Pens and it leading to a chance for Bennett up front, but Johnson is able to make a pad save.

13:50 - Crosby is once again feeling it tonight both on offense and defense. He is playing a strong defensive game.

16:05 - Rust gets a rush up the wing and fires one. Johnson makes the save. Letang also gets a chance on net.

17:52 - Sabres try to force the issue early. Murray makes a solid save and holds for the whistle.

20:00 - The puck has dropped at Consol! The Pens need to come out and get on the board early, play smart, and keep up the pressure! Every point matters! Lets Go Pens! 

Stars Collide

By: MF,

The Pittsburgh Penguins are back in action for a second day in a row as they face off against the Washington Capitals. The Penguins are coming off a huge 4-1 win over the Philadelphia Flyers, which allowed them to move into the third position of Metropolitan Division.

The Penguins have won five straight games, which is the longest under Head Coach Mike Sullivan (HCMS). He has really installed some good values into the team and they are starting to put together solid wins at the perfect time. They are 14-3-2 in their last 19 games at Consol Energy Center and 9-2-1 this season when they dawn their third jersey. Also, since December 21, 2015 they are averaging 3.74 goals per game at home. It's nice to see their hard work paying off and them putting some space in between them and the other teams hunting for a playoff spot.

The offense has been on firing even without the services of Evgeni Malkin. The Penguins are getting points from all their lines and everyone is working hard. Sidney Crosby, of course, is leading the way for them. He is currently riding a 11-game point streak where he has tallied up six goals, 12 assists, and 18 points. Crosby also is third in points in the National Hockey League (NHL). Crosby is not the only one putting up some solid points. Carl Hagelin has 10 points (four goals and six assists) over this last 10 games played and that includes four game-winning-goals at home. It's great to see him fitting right in to the line-ups.

On defense, Kris Letang is leading the charge. Since January 1st, he has 1.06 points per game. Trevor Daley is also putting some good shots on net and creates some great plays. The entire defense is clicking and playing smarter. They are starting to come into their own as we close in on playoffs.

Tonight, the Penguins have to stay focused for the entire 60 minute game, play smart, stay out of the box, and keep attacking. This won't be an easy game and they can't let up. Lets Go Pens!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards
Kunitz - Crosby - Hagelin
Hagelin - Bonino - Kessel
Kuhnhackl - Cullen - Rust
Sheary - Sundqvist - Fehr

Defense
Maatta - Letang
Dumoulin - Daley
Cole - Schultz

Fleury in the net!

Play by Play
PENS 6 Capitals 2

3rd Period
0:00 - THE PENS GET THE 6-2 WIN OVER THE CAPITALS! WHAT A GAME AND WAY TO STICK WITH THINGS! THE PENS WERE AMAZING! FLEURY WAS SOLID IN THE NET! PENS MOVE INTO 2ND PLACE OF THE METRO!

0:53 - Pens kill it!

2:53 - Hagelin to the box for interference and the Capitals get a power play.

2:59 - Pens defending their lead well!

4:21 - Pens power play ends.

6:55 - SCHULTZ SCORES A POWER PLAY GOAL! HIS FIRST AS A PENGUIN! Daley puts the puck right in Schultz's wheelhouse and he rifles one past Grubauer! 6-2 Pens

7:18 - Three minute major power play for the Pens. Rust is back on the bench!

8:18 - Weber drills Rust into the boards from behind. A very dirty hit. Kuhnhackl comes to his defense. 4 on 4 hockey as Weber and Kuhnhackl get two minutes and a game misconduct each.

12:32 - Ovechkin nails Dumoulin with a hard hit. Dumoulin needs help up and ends up going to the locker room.

12:42 - KUNITZ SCORES! Kunitz blows one past Holtby and chases him out of the net! Grubauer replaces him! 5-2 Pens

14:26 - Schultz rings one off the post! He had Holtby beat!

14:58 - The crowd is hassling Holtby with the chant of his name. Crowd is fired up!

16:14 - CULLEN SCORES! Cullen receives a stretch pass and is all alone! He fires it at the shoulder of Holtby! It bounces up over this shoulder and into the net! 4-2 Pens

19:49 - Things are even once again...man power wise.

20:00 - The guys are back on the ice for the third period! The Pens have to stick with things and keep playing smart hockey! The Pens start with an eight second power play! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - That is it for the second period! The Pens have the 3-2 lead over the Capitals!

1:52 - High sticking penalty will go to Williams and the Pens get the power play chance.

4:03 - KUHNHACKL SCORES! Cullen crosses over the middle on the offensive zone and passes off to the wing! Kuhnhackl goes to one-knee to rip one past Holtby! 3-2 Pens

4:48 - Burakovsky Scores. Burakovsky sneaks behind the coverage and its a breakaway. He puts it past Fleury. 2-2 tie game

4:55 - The power play ends.

5:34 - Things are getting heated and physical. Crosby toe drags for a goal, but the ref looses sight as he goes behind the net, so no goal. Horrible call. Then a scrum ensues. We have two in the box and the Capitals have four. Pens power play continues.

6:55 - Power play time for the Pens.

9:39 - 4 on 2 rush for the Pens, but Kessel's pass is intercepted.

12:05 - Successful penalty kill for the Pens as Cole is set free.

14:05 - Now the Capitals are headed onto the power play as Cole sits in the box for holding the stick.

14:39 - Capitals are starting to bring more heat after breaking the ice with their first goal.

18:42 - Chimera Scores! Chimera gets a edge on Pens defense, Fleury comes out with the poke check. The puck bounces up and goes of Chimera's helmet into the goal. 2-1 Pens

20:00 - Time for the second period! The Pens have to keep up the pressure and play smart! They cannot let the Capitals have any chances! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period horn sounds and the Pens have the 2-0 lead over the Capitals!

1:08 - Capitals have been very physical towards the end of the first.

2:31 - The Pens can't capitalize on their power play and Oshie is set free.

4:31 - Another power play chance for the Pens as T.J. Oshie heads to the box for tripping.

6:03 - Capitals kill off the Pens power play.

8:03 - The first power play of the game will go to the Pens as Winnik sits for interference.

9:58 - DALEY SCORES! The Pens come up with the puck after a board battle in the offensive zone and Crosby makes a side pass to Daley, who is flying into the zone! He backhands one past Holtby! 2-0 Pens

11:30 - RUST SCORES! Rust gets behind the the Capitals defense and receives a pass right on his stick! He holds and puts it around the outstretched pad of Holtby! 1-0 Pens

11:36 - The Pens have started to get some shots on Holtby, but the Capitals still control the game.

13:47 - Fleury makes an unreal glove save, while on his stomach. He is busy earlier. The Pens need to bounce back.

16:53 - Fleury is on his game early. The Capitals come out with speed and get quality shots on net. Slow start for the Pens, who did play yesterday.

20:00 - The puck has dropped! The Pens have to stay focused for the entire game, play smart, stay out of the box, and keep attacking! Lets Go Pens!-

Penguins look to celebrate Pittsburgh's bicentennial with win

By: MF,

The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing off against the Carolina Hurricanes at Consol Energy Center. The Penguins need to continue to collect points and put some distance between them and those teams on the outside looking in. They will have to stay focused and play smart for the entire 60 minute game. Lets Go Pens!

Below is a play-by-play of the game for you!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards
Kunitz - Crosby - Hornqvist
Hagelin - Bonino - Kessel
Simon - Cullen - Rust
Kuhnhackl - Fehr - Sheary

Defense
Maatta - Letang
Dumoulin - Daley
Cole - Schultz

Murray in the net!

Play by Play
PENS 4 Hurricanes 2

3rd Period
0:00 - THE PENS GET THE 4-2 W OVER THE CANES! WAY TO COME BACK AND GET THOSE BIG POINTS! MURRAY STEPPED UP! CELEBRATING 200 YEARS FOR PITTSBURGH!

1:36 - Pens with the good penalty kill.

3:36 - The Pens need to stay out of the box. They are giving the Hurricanes too many chances to get back into it. Hornqvist is off for tripping.

3:45 - The Hurricanes kill off the short Pens power play.

4:17 - Daley is out of the box and 32 second power play for the Pens.

5:45 - Now Staal will make his way to the box for goalie interference. 4 on 4 hockey for 1:28.

6:17 - Dang another Pens penalty. Daley is called for holding and the Hurricanes head onto the power play.

6:40 - BONINO SCORES! Hagelin puts the puck over the goal, but Kessel picks up the loose puck! He puts it to the rushing Bonino who directs it past Lack! 4-2 Pens

7:38 - Some good defensive work by the Pens to keep the Hurricanes at bay. Guys know their roles and responsibilities.

10:12 - Rask is released from his prison and the Hurricanes are able to survive the Pens power play chance.

10:50 - Hagelin is set free and Pens have a regular power play for 38 seconds.

12:12 - Well this game has seen a lot of 4 on 4 hockey. It will once again as Rask is called for interference on Bonino. 1:22 of 4 on 4.

12:50 - Another power play chance for the Hurricanes as Hagelin heads off for hooking. Big penalty kill for the Pens.

14:00 - Good start to this period for the Pens. They need to be careful as the Hurricanes need this win to keep their playoff hopes alive. Desperate teams are dangerous ones.

17:03 - Nice push by the first line of the Pens. Hornqvist tries to bank one off of Lack, but Lack was able to get back in time.

18:07 - The Hurricanes are able to kill off the Pens man-advantage.

19:53 - Regular 5 on 4 power play for 1:46.

20:00 - One last period of regulation to go! The Pens start the period with a 4 on 3 power play for 14 seconds! They need to take advantage and play smart! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - Second period comes to a close and the Pens have taken the lead 3-2 over the Hurricanes!

0:07 - An bad penalty for the Hurricanes as Hanifin is headed to the box for interference. The Pens get a 4 on 3 power play for rest of period.

1:46 - More 4 on 4 hockey. Murphy is called for tripping, but Hagelin also gets two for embellishment.

2:01 - CROSBY SCORES! The Pens battle on the boards to get the puck loose! Cole makes a shot / pass to Crosby at the side! Crosby goes down to one knee to redirect the shot across his body past Lack! 3-2 Pens

4:54 - The first penalties expire. Rush fresh out of the box gets the puck behind the Hurricanes defense, but his shot goes wide.

5:06 - The Hurricanes will get another crack at the power play as Bonino is called for holding the stick (of another player). 4 on 3 for 11 seconds then a regular Hurricanes power play if they don't score in the 11 second span.

6:54 - Staal and Rust look like they were about to drop the gloves, but things are broken up before that can happen. Each get matching minors and we get some 4 on 4 hockey.

7:44 - KESSEL SCORES! Cullen makes a pass up ice to Cole who pushes the Hurricanes back! Cole goes to Hagelin in front and he kicks the puck over to the wing! Kessel comes in and puts the puck in the open net! 2-2 tie game

8:53 - Staal is denied on his wrap around chance by Murray.

11:13 - Murray comes up with a solid glove save and Dumoulin does a nice job of boxing out guys for Murray.

14:47 - Letang takes a shot up high and is shaken up. He seems to be ok, but still feeling the effects of the block.

16:12 - Nice start for the Pens aside from the one rush by the Hurricanes.

18:26 - Maatta and Letang jump up on a play and get caught, giving the Hurricanes a 2 on 1 chance. Crosby gets back to defend and goes down to block any shot or pass attempt.

20:00 - Time for the second period! The Pens need to pressure the Hurricanes in their own zone, get traffic in front of Lack, and put pucks on net! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period horn sounds with the Hurricanes holding the lead 2-1 over the Pens.

0:09 - The penalty kill for the Pens is successful.

2:09 - The Hurricanes are rewarded the first power play of the game as Rust is called for boarding.

5:28 - Murray makes a great save on Gerbe as he has a breakaway chance. He is starting to settle in.

6:07 - CROSBY SCORES! Crosby starts from his own blue line and carries done the ice, goes around Slavin! Then he makes a power more to protect the puck from Hainsey, while turning his shot to the backhand as he goes across the blue paint! Lack has no chance! 2-1 Hurricanes

9:54 - There is more of an offensive push by the Pens and they are getting some good zone time. They just need to get traffic in front to put one past Lack.

12:31 - The Pens first line gets some time in the offensive zone and keep the Hurricanes pinned, but are unable to get anything past Lack.

14:46 - Nash Scores. The Pens get sloppy again and turnover the puck in the offensive zone. The Hurricanes cycle and Nash gets the puck up front. He puts it past Murray. 2-0 Pens

16:28 - The Hurricanes have come out flying tonight.

19:17 - D. Giuseppe Scores. The first shot for the Hurricanes ends up being a goal. Kunitz turns over the puck in front and D. Giuseppe makes him pay. 1-0 Canes

20:00 - Puck drop at Consol and it's game on! The Pens need to come out and get on the board early! Get those much needed points! Lets Go Pens! 

Islanders visit Pittsburgh

By: MF,

The New York Islanders are in town to battle the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Penguins are looking to put some distance between them and the Philadelphia Flyers and Detroit Red Wings. Those two teams will also play tonight.

The Penguins have to come out with speed, control the game, and play a complete 60 minute game. Lets Go Pens!

Here is a play by play of the game! Make sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter (@PensHockeyShow).

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards
Kunitz - Crosby - Hornqvist
Hagelin - Bonino - Kessel
Simon - Cullen - Rust
Kuhnhackl - Fehr - Sheary

Defense
Maatta - Letang
Dumoulin - Daley
Cole - Schultz

Fleury in the net!

Play by Play
PENS 2 Islanders 1 SO

Shootout
THE PENS COME OUT WITH THE 2-1 SHOOTOUT WIN! WHAT A GREAT WIN FOR THE GUYS AND A HARD FOUGHT ONE! FLEURY  WAS ONCE AGAIN AMAZING IN NET! A MUCH NEEDED TWO POINTS!

Tavares is denied entry by Fleury!

Kessel denied.

Okposo stopped by Fleury!

Letang Scores!

Nielson denied by Fleury!

Crosby stopped by glove of Berube.


Overtime
0:00 - What a overtime! Still not enough. Headed to a shootout.

0:32 - Two on one chance with Crosby and Kunitz! Kunitz misses a wide open net!

1:23 - Kessel circles, but Berube makes the pad save.

2:10 - Nothing like three on three overtime hockey. Chances all over the place. Goalies holding strong.

3:19 - Bonino robbed by Berube.

3:42 - Fleury with a big save on Nielson's backhand shot.

5:00 - Time to open things up as the puck drops on overtime! The Pens need to play smart, but don't need to be too defensive! Lets Go Pens!


3rd Period
0:00 - We are headed to overtime as things are tied at one still.

2:23 - Things have open up and this game seems to have more energy to it.

3:44 - Rust rifles one that is deflected by Cullen, but it rings off the goal post. Things are heating up.

5:25 - Okposo Scores on the power play. The puck bounces around in front and Fleury goes down and is tangled up with Letang. Okposo slips one under Fleury. 1-1 tie game.

6:43 - Penalty killing team for the Pens as Bonino sits for slashing. Huge kill for the Pens.

7:55 - Great board play by the Pens in the offensive zone. The third line is working hard and being physical.

11:07 - The Pens power play comes to an end.

13:07 - Hickey breaks Crosby stick in half and the Pens will head onto the power play.

14:18 - Some hard battles going on in front of the net.

16:12 - Both teams are back to full strength.

18:12 - Some 4 on 4 hockey time.

20:00 - Puck drop on the third period! The Pens need to stay on their game and get another goal to give them some breathing room! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - Second period horn sounds and the Pens still hold the 1-0 lead over the Islanders.

2:15 - Power play comes to an end for the Pens. They are still playing a all-around solid game. Good to see them playing a consistent game right now.

4:15 - Time for a Pens power play as Kunitz is hauled down.

5:24 - Such a presence by the Pens and they are playing some smart hockey.

7:50 - The Pens hold the Islanders in their own zone for about two minutes. Great offensive dominance by the Pens. Berube keeps things at one for the Pens.

10:07 - This game is a fast pace one. The Pens are doing a good job of keeping up the pressure, but still playing smart defensively. Fleury is once again on his game.

13:34 - Rust is back on the ice and looks good. He battles in front of the net to create a scoring chance, but Berube denies him.

16:17 - Crosby rips a wrister that is gloved up by Berube. The Islanders have come on during this period, but the Pens are playing well defensively.

17:52 - Fleury makes two solid saves to start this period. Nice work by the netminder.

20:00 - Time for the second period! The Pens have to keep playing smart and keep up the pressure! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period ends and the Pens have the 1-0 lead!

2:14 - Rust gets hit by Boychuk and is shaken up. He is hunting on the bench and heads to the locker room.

4:09 - KUNITZ SCORES! The Pens cycle the puck and keep the Islanders pinned in their own zone! Dumoulin fires from the blue line and Kunitz redirects up front! 1-0 Pens

5:22 - The Pens survive and are back to full strength.

7:22 - Islanders will head back onto the power play as Kuhnhackl is sent to the sin bin.

8:16 - The power play for the Pens comes to an end and things are still scoreless.

10:16 - Now time for the Pens to get a chance on the power play as Strait sits for tripping.

12:13 - Successful penalty kill for the Pens as Crosby is set free.

12:58 - Fehr with a shorthanded chance, but Berube makes a hard save.

14:13 - The first power play of the game will go to the Islanders as Crosby is called for hooking.

15:44 - The Pens have had a few good shifts in a role. Good start so far for them.

18:10 - Crosby has two good looks on net. Shots are redirected a bit wide.

19:28 - Fleury makes a solid save on a Islanders' two on one chance.

20:00 - It's hockey night in Pittsburgh! The puck has dropped and the Pens need to come out with speed and get the offense going! Lets Go Pens! 

Penguins found roaming in the Big Apple

By: MF,

The Pittsburgh Penguins are in the Big Apple to take on the New York Rangers. The Penguins are coming off a hard fought win against the Columbus Blue Jackets. However, they didn't come out without injuries. Evgeni Malkin went down during the game and didn't come back. The Penguins will be without his services for six to eight weeks due to an upper body injury. This is a huge blow to the lineup as the team is trying to make the playoffs. Currently, the Penguins are in the second wildcard position and only one point behind the Detroit Red Wings, who hold the top wildcard spot. The Philadelphia Flyers are hunting them down as they are within two points of the Penguins.

Today's afternoon game will be a significant one for the Penguins on a few fronts. It's a big points getting. These two points are needed for the Penguins to put some space between them and the teams on the outside looking in. It will also set the tone for how the team is going to play without Malkin as the season is coming to an end. Look for guys to jump at the chance to fill the spot. Also, Marc-Andre Fleury and Sidney Crosby will have to keep playing well. They will lead this team to a playoff run with Malkin being out.

The Penguins have to get on the board early, stay out of the box, play smart, get traffic in front of Lundqvist, and play a full 60 minute game! Lets Go Pens!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards
Kunitz - Crosby - Hornqvist
Hagelin - Bonino - Kessel
Kuhnhackl - Cullen - Rust
Simon - Fehr - Sheary

Defense
Maatta - Letang
Dumoulin - Daley
Cole - Schultz

Fleury in the net!

Play by Play
PENS 5 Rangers 3

3rd Period
0:00 - THE PENS GET THE 5-3 WIN OVER THE RANGERS! FLEURY WAS GREAT ONCE AGAIN AND THE PENS STUCK WITH THINGS! A MUCH NEEDED TWO POINTS! KEEP IT UP! 

0:38 - CROSBY SCORES AN EMPTY NETTER! Rust gets down the ice to get the icing waved off! Crosby ends up with the puck and puts it in the open net! 5-3 Pens

1:05 - Fleury with a save on Nash's shot!

1:40 - The Rangers have an empty net!

2:34 - As the clock draws near to zero, things are heating up. Rangers coming hard right now. The Pens need to weather the storm.

4:02 - Brassard tries to force one in as bodies gather in front of the net, but Fleury holds strong.

8:46 - CULLEN SCORES! Cullen battles behind the net and ends up falling down! From one knee, he throws the puck in front of the net! The puck bounces off M. Staal's skate twice and through the five-hole of Lundqvist! 4-3 Pens

9:41 - Rangers getting some good offensive zone time. The Pens need to pressure them more and lay some hits. The Rangers played yesterday, so the Pens need to take advantage.

12:24 - The Pens are able to kill off the Ranger power play.

14:24 - Nash gets a breakaway chance, but Fleury shuts him down. Cole is called for slashing and the Rangers get a power play at a critical time.

14:56 - McDonagh Scores. McDonagh comes in on the rush and goes around the net. He is able to put in the wrap around chance to tie things up. 3-3 tie game

15:41 - Both teams are made whole again. Sheary did a good job of staying with the play to create a turnover in the offensive zone.

17:41 - Letang blocks a shot and it does off his skate. He hobbles to the bench, but looks to be ok. We will have some four on four hockey as Fehr and Brassard get coincidental minors.

18:54 - Lundqvist is nailed up high in the mask by a shot from Hagelin.

19:59 - Kunitz and Kreider waste no time and drop the gloves. Good fight by Kunitz!

20:00 - We are back for the third period! The Pens have to keep the pressure on the Rangers and can't allow them any room to generate chances! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - The second period comes to a close and the Pens have the 3-2 lead!

0:36 - Zuccarello is set free as the Pens power play comes to an end.

2:36 - Now the Pens will get a power play opportunity to extend their lead. Zuccarello sits for slashing.

4:03 - SHEARY SCORES HIS 2ND OF THE DAY! Sheary starts his skating from the goal line and comes straight through the middle with some speed! Fehr finds him and Sheary gets a one-on-one chance! He beats Lundqvist blocker side! 3-2 Pens

5:35 - Good work by the Pens to fight for the puck in the neutral zone, but they need to get some sustained time in the offensive zone.

8:02 - Hornqvist gets a chance up front on Lundqvist after he makes a save on Letang's shot. Nice push by the first line.

10:48 - Brassard Scores on the power play. Brassard rifles one that bounces off some bodies and past Fleury. 2-2 tie game.

11:08 - The Rangers will get a power play as Hornqvist heads to the box.

12:23 - SHEARY SCORES! Schultz fires on net and his shot is deflected past Lundqvist by Sheary! 2-1 Pens

15:24 - Maatta gets behind the Rangers' defense, but it denied by Lundqvist. Then E. Staal gets a chance of his own, but Fleury makes the stop.

17:38 - Better start to this period for the Pens then the first. They seem to have more fire. Now they need to keep it up for the entire period/game.

18:21 - The Rangers are able to kill off the Pens power play chance. It had some nice looks on net.

19:34 - Crosby rings one off the goal post!

20:00 - The horn sounds to start the second period! The Pens have a power play for 1:39 to start this one! They need to get a goal on this chance and keep it going! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period ends and things are tied at one.

0:21 - A late power play is giving to the Pens as McDonagh sits.

1:54 - Kreider Scores. Kuntiz turns over the puck in the offensive zone when he tries to play around with the puck too much. The Rangers make a great pass play and the puck finds a open Kreider at the backdoor. 1-1 tie game.

3:49 - The Pens are not pressuring the Rangers defense enough. They need to generate more offensive chances.

6:24 - Fleury makes a save at one end and it sends the Pens to the other. Fehr creates a turnover in front of Lundqvist, but can't get it behind him. Nice work by Fehr.

8:01 - HORNQVIST SCORES ON THE POWER PLAY! Schultz starts the play by holding the puck and out letting to Letang at the point! Letang finds Crosby who fires on net! Lunqvist makes the first save and Hornqvist picks up the rebound! From a bad angle, he banks one off the back of the netminder into the net! 1-0 Pens

8:42 - Time for the Pens power play chance as J.T. Miller will sit in the sin bin.

12:18 - All the penalties have expired for the Pens. Now they need to give Fleury a break and get some offensive going. 

13:47 - Regular penalty kill for the Pens for another 1:28. 

14:18 - Fleury poke checks the puck away from Kreider as he gets a one-on-one chance. Fleury is earning his paycheck today. Now the Rangers will get a five on three power play for 32 seconds as Cole is called for delay of game. 

15:47 - The first power play will go to the Rangers as Maatta is called for high-sticking Rick Nash. 

16:01 - Fleury is keeping this game scoreless for the Pens. Rangers getting some good looks on net. 

18:25 - The Rangers come out with some jump. Fleury makes some quality saves to start this game. 

20:00 - The puck has dropped at Madison Square Garden! The Pens have to play smart and generate some offense early without Malkin in the lineup! Lets Go Pens! 

No Rangers needed in Pittsburgh

By: MF, 

Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins are ready to host the New York Rangers at Consol Energy Center. However, before we dive into the pregame stats and looks, we are going to touch on the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

The World Cup of Hockey is set to commence on September 17 in Toronto, Ontario and will be an eight-team competition. The Pittsburgh Penguins and city will be well represented that the tournament as four Penguins, three Pittsburgh area players, and Head Coach Mike Sullivan will have roles in the tournament. The four Penguins, included Sidney Crosby (Canada), Evgeni Malkin (Russia), Olli Maatta (Finland), and Matt Murray (North America).

Before the competition officially begins, an exhibition doubleheader will be held at Consol Energy Center on September 14. The marquee matchup will be at 7:30 p.m. as rivals Canada and Russia faceoff. It will be the first time that Crosby and Malkin have faced each other since May 2015 in the International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship’s gold medal game. Team Canada ended up winning that game, and Crosby became the 26^th player joined the illustrious Triple Gold Club, which is made up of players that have won a Stanley Cup, Olympic, and World Championship gold medal.

It is great to see the players on the Penguins getting awarded at all levels for their efforts. It will be an exciting tournament.

Now onto the game at hand tonight. The Penguins are coming off a hard 3-2 loss to the Washington Capitals and are looking to put a few wins together while also gaining some precious points as the playoffs near.

During the morning skate, the Penguins had a new addition join them as Justin Schultz was able to finally join a team skate. He was acquired from the Edmonton Oilers for a 2016 third-round draft pick. He did not arrive in Pittsburgh until Wednesday due to immigration protocol. He will not be in the lineup tonight as Coach Sullivan stated that he wants Schultz to get more practice with the team. His speed with be a perfect fit for Sullivan’s system and I look forward to seeing how he does.

Now is the critical time for the Penguins and they are getting good production. Patric Hornqvist has three goals, nine assists, and 12 points in his last 10 games, including his first career hat trick (February 29). He also is riding a three-game point streak, where he has notched four goals and two assists. In addition, Phil Kessel has five goals, seven assists, and 12 points in nine of his last 11 home games. Kessel has also reached the 200 shot mark for the eighth time (10 seasons).

They are also getting spectacular performance from their netminders. Matt Murray was on point during the Washington Capitals game, giving the Penguins a chance to win. Marc-Andre Fleury is 11-3-1 in his last 15 starts, where he has earned three shutouts. Fleury leads all goaltenders in home wins since January 1^st with 10 wins out of 12 starts. Braden Holtby and Lundqvist come in second with eight wins in 10 starts.

The Penguins will have to focus on getting shots on net and making sure to shake up Henrik Lundqvist. In recent games, the Rangers have dominant defensively, and Lundqvist is the huge reason for that. Lundqvist shutout the Penguins last game (February 10) with a 34-save performance. However, Carl Hagelin says that they cannot focus on him. They need to focus on their game and not let him get the better of them. In their last 15 home starts, the Penguins are 11-2-2. They are 7-2-1 this season when they dawn their third jerseys. Lets Go Pens!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards

Kunitz - Crosby - Hornqvist

Hagelin - Malkin - Kessel 

Wilson - Bonino - Rust

Kuhnhackl -  Cullen - Porter

Defense

Maatta - Letang

Dumoulin - Daley

Pouliot - Cole

Fleury in the net! 

Play by Play
PENS 4 Rangers 1

3rd Period
0:00 - THE PENS GET THE 4-1 WIN OVER THE RANGERS! FLEURY WAS SPECTACULAR IN NET ONCE AGAIN! THE GUYS PLAYED A SOLID 60 MINUTE GAME AND KEPT WITH THINGS! KEEP IT UP! WHAT A NIGHT FOR THE PENS! 

2:04 - KESSEL SCORES AN EMPTY NETTER! The play is broken up for the Rangers sending Malkin and Kessel to the empty net! Kessel goes to Malkin, but Malkin gives it back! Kessel puts it in! 4-1 Pens

2:41 - Lundqvist heads the bench and the Rangers have an empty net.

3:06 - The Rangers are putting in the effort and time right now, but the Pens have been able to stop them.

5:07 - Malkin and Kuhnhackl get a 2 on 1 chance. Malkin tries to make a pass over, but it's broken up.

6:04 - Cullen and Rust get a 2 on 1 rush. Cullen passes over to Rust, but Lundqvist is square to the shot and holds for the whistle.

6:27 - It has been a good defensive game for the Pens as they have held guys like Eric Staal quite throughout this game.

8:16 - Crosby makes a cross-ice pass in front of Lundqvist, but Letang is unable to get a stick on the pass.

9:13 - The Pens have been content to clear the puck and then make a change without really taking an offensive approach. They are waiting for the Rangers to mess up, but it leaves him open to take a defensive zone penalty.

11:36 - Cullen sets up Bonino in front, but he shoots the puck over the net.

14:04 - Rangers are getting some good zone time. The Pens need to stop protecting their lead and giving the Rangers the blue line. They need to keep pressuring.

16:27 - Another good start for both teams. Fleury has been tested early as the Rangers look to start a comeback.

20:00 - Time for the third period! The Pens have to keep their foot on the gas pedal, stay focused, and be physical! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - The second period horn sounds and the Pens explode to take the 3-1 lead over the Rangers!

0:34 - HORNQVIST SCORES ON THE POWER PLAY! Kessel rifles one and Hornqvist gets the redirect up front to put it past Lundqvist! 3-1 Pens

1:17 - Now Yandle will visit the box for interference as the Pens get a power play just as the momentum has swung in their way!

1:52 - MALKIN SCORES! Malkin dances at the blue line for a bit and leaves the puck for Daley at the point! He fires Daley's rebound shot behind the body and blocker arm of Lundqvist! 2-1 Pens

2:13 - CROSBY SCORES! Crosby puts the puck on net and it goes under the pads of Lundqvist! Crosby taps it as he goes behind the net to put the puck over the goal line! 1-1 tie game

3:10 - Kreider Scores. The Pens are in the mist of a change. Zuccarello receives a snap pass to enter the Pens zone and passes over to a wide open Kreider puts it short side. 1-0 Rangers

3:15 - Successful kill for the Pens. Fleury held strong on that penalty kill. He is getting a work-out tonight.

5:15 - Another power play opportunity for the Rangers as Crosby finds himself in the box for holding. Big penalty kill for the Pens in this scoreless game.

6:05 - Dumoulin ends up being the only guy back as the Rangers get a 2 on 1 chance, but he lays down to block the shot/pass.

7:55 - Fleury makes a great save on the short-side as the Rangers tried to full him with a fake pass.

8:32 - Kessel and Dumoulion get a chance in front, but Lundqvist seems to get a piece as the puck ends up in the corner.

9:53 - Lundqvist gets a bump behind the net by Malkin as he plays the puck and his is once again not happy.

11:43 - Now the Rangers will get their first power play chance of the game for 1:09.

12:34 - Kessel is called for slashing, so we will have some 4 on 4 hockey for 51 seconds.

13:43 - After Lundqvist is shaken up by his own man. Lundqvist knocks the net over on purpose and he will get a penalty. The Pens head onto the power play.

15:25 - The Rangers are testing Fleury and he is passing with flying colors!

20:00 - Puck drop on the second period! The Pens have to get bodies in front of Lundqvist and generate some second chances to pounce on! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period ends and this game is scoreless.

2:05 - Porter goes down hard at the corner boards with some help from a Ranger. He is slow to get up and needs help down the runway.

2:55 - Fleury hasn't faced a ton of shots to start this one, but has been alert. He has had to make some tough saves on some of the shots he has faced.

4:46 - Rangers are laying some big hits on the Pens.

9:28 - Both teams are getting chances. Neither team has taken complete control of the game, more like trading possession.

10:11 - Pouliot fires a hard/fast shot on net, but Lunqvist is able to make the save. Solid shot by the young defender.

12:05 - The Rangers are able to kill off the Pens power play. The Pens have to get second, third chances on their shots.

14:05 - First power play of the game goes to the Pens as Moore takes a seat for hooking.

14:32 - Yandle rifles one from the point, but Fleury gets a piece of it with his glove to direct it wide.

16:57 - Fleury makes a solid diving save and holds for the whistle.

18:45 - Crosby sets up Daley for a chance, but Lunqvist comes out to cut down the angle and make the save.

20:00 - It's Hockey Night in Pittsburgh! The Pens have to come out strong, keep up the pressure, and play a full 60 minute game! Lets Go Pens!  

Time for the Penguins to capitalize

By: MF,

Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins are in the Nation’s Capital to battle the Washington Capitals. This is the second in back-to-back games for the Penguins. They are coming off a 6-0 win over the Arizona Coyotes, last night. The Penguins have won five of their last six games at the Verizon Center; they will look to make it six out of seven tonight.

The Penguins have been clicking lately as they are 3-1-1 in their last five road games. Also, they are 5-1-1 in their last seven games versus Metropolitan Division teams. Tonight’s game will be a big point getting for the Penguins as the race for the playoffs is full on.

Not to mention, the Penguins are going into the game tonight after one of the most dominating wins of the season. The first line led the way. Patric Hornqvist recorded his first career National Hockey League (NHL) hat trick and had a career-high four points. Sidney Crosby notched a season-high three assists. Lastly, Chris Kunitz was a plus-4 and notched an assist and goal.

In addition, Marc-Andre Fleury earned another shutout to complement his spectacular performance in net against the Coyotes.  However, Matt Murray will be between the pipes tonight. He is 2-1-1 in his four career NHL starts. In the American Hockey League (AHL), he ranks third in goals-against average (2.10) and save percentage (.931). In over 71 games (two seasons) in the AHL, Murray has 16 shutouts and 45 wins. He is a rising goalie and it is great to have him backing up Fleury.

This game is a big point game for the Penguins, and they need to keep control for a full 60 minutes. They cannot afford for the Capitals to have any room or chances. Lets Go Pens!

The Pens lineup is as follows:

Forwards

Kunitz - Crosby - Hornqvist

Hagelin - Malkin - Kessel

Wilson - Bonino - Porter

Kuhnhackl - Cullen - Rust

Defense

Maatta - Letang

Dumoulin - Daley

Pouliot - Cole

Murray in the net!  

Play by Play
Pens 2 Capitals 3

3rd Period
0:00 - The Pens fall 3-2 to the Capitals. A hard loss especially with the Pens dominating early and getting a solid lead. However, the Pens opened the door for the Capitals to come back. Then penalty trouble struck again for the Pens. Good news is that Murray looked great in net.

1:01 - Empty net for the Pens.

2:14 - Murray makes a great save at the top of the blue paint. No matter what, he has been spectacular in net for the Pens.

3:24 - The Pens have allowed the Capitals to get back in this one and then take a stupid penalty to give them the lead. They have to dig deep take back control as time is running out.

6:22 - Niskanen scores on the power play. Niskanen fires from the blue line through traffic to beat Murray. 3-2 Capitals

7:15 - Malkin heads to the box for high-sticking. Critical time as the Caps get a power play. Huge penalty kill for the Pens.

9:10 - Malkin and Kessel get another 2 on 1 chance, but Alzner blocks the pass attempt. Malkin then tries for a shot that is saved by Holtby. The puck is loose as Malkin and three Caps crash into the net.

11:02 - Very physical period as bodies are everywhere on the ice.

13:22 - This period is wide open as both teams are getting some good chances, but goalies are holding strong.

15:13 - Cullen makes a beautiful backhanded feed to Kuhnhackl who rings it off the goal post!

15:47 - Bouncing puck in the offensive zone and Malkin is able to direct to up to Kessel. Holtby denies him.

17:35 - The Capitals have come out with speed and good puck control. The Pens need to match their tempo, which is hard to do after on the second night of a back-to-back series.

20:00 - Time for the third period! The Pens have to take get back to their game and play smart! Lets Go Pens!


2nd Period
0:00 - Second period comes to an end with things tied at two.

1:20 - Murray is holding down the fort in net. He is giving the Pens a chance to bounce back after a late second period surge by the Capitals.

3:57 - Kuznetsov Scores. Williams controls the puck and emerges from behind the net to throw the puck in the blue paint. Kuznetsov left alone in front and puts it in. 2-2 tie game.

5:15 - Ovechkin gets some time and space as he enters the offensive zone, but Pouliot stays with him to take the puck. Great defensive play!

6:10 - No shots on that power play as it comes to an end.

8:10 - Time for another Pens power play as Orlov is called for tripping.

9:05 - Capitals get some time in the offensive zone, but the Pens are finally able to clear.

11:36 - Ovechkin tries to put in a bad angle shot, but Murray says no!

12:37 - Letang and Chimera are set free.

13:08 - The handing out of penalties isn't over. Cole and Orlov will each getting matching minors.

14:37 - Things are getting heated on the ice. Matching minors are giving out, so we will have some 4 on 4 hockey. Letang for holding and Chimera for embellishment.

15:36 - Richard Scores. Richard fires a shot from the point and it is deflected in front past Murray. 2-1 Pens

16:13 - HORNQVIST SCORES! Crosby controls to get the puck in the offensive zone and passes over to Maatta entering the zone! Maatta gets the puck up to Hornqvist in front of Holtby! He finishes things off! 2-0 Pens

17:51 - The Pens fourth line controls the puck in the offensive zone for quite some time and get quality chances, but Holtby is able to make the saves to keep things at 1-0.

20:00 - The second period is underway! The Pens need to extend their lead and continue to make smart plays to keep the Capitals from getting quality chances! Lets Go Pens!


1st Period

0:00 - First period horn sounds and the Pens have the 1-0 lead!

0:59 - The Pens are back to full strength.

1:30 - Alzner is set free and the Capitals get a 31 second power play.

2:59 - So much for that Pens power play. Kessel is called for slashing. 4 on 4 hockey for 1:29.

3:30 - Alzner heads to the box for cross-checking and the Pens get their first look at the power play.

4:02 - Murray makes another solid save and looks comfortable in net.

6:05 - Great penalty kill for the Pens. Murray made some solid saves, including a big save on Ovechkin's one-timer.

8:05 - First power play of the game will go to the Capitals as Kunitz is called for tripping. Huge PK. Momentum of the game could tilt in favor the Capitals or keep the Pens in control.

9:33 - The Pens have done a good job of getting chances on Holtby, but also playing smart defensively to keep the Capitals from getting quality shots.

11:07 - Capitals finally get their shot of the game. Murray makes the save and holds for the whistle.

13:30 - MALKIN SCORES! Malkin and Kessel get a 2 on 1 chance! Malkin holds to fake out Orlov and puts it five-hole on Holtby! 1-0 Pens

14:43 - Rust with a solid chance on net, but it is turned away by Holtby.

17:40 - Back and forth hockey to start this one. Neither team has taken control yet.

20:00 - The puck has dropped at Verizon Center! The Pens need to come out and put the Capitals on their heels early! Lets Go Pens!