After the Buccos took care of business against the St. Louis Cardinals at PNC Park, the Pittsburgh Penguins (45-25-8) were able to show off too against their heated rivals, the Philadelphia Flyers. The Penguins were led by Sidney Crosby scoring his 33rd goal of the season and giving Pittsburgh a quick 1-0 lead.
Beau Bennett (6) and Patric Hornqvist (21) both scored to give the Penguins a 3-0 edge, while Wayne Simmonds scored his 29th goal of the season in the final minute of the second period to make it 3-1 Pens. The Flyers battled back coming within a pair several times. Pittsburgh’s offense did not let up and was able to collect it sixth straight win, 6-2
Early Lead Protection
With Marc-Andre Fleury out for the second game in a row, Matt Murray had to step up to the plate in back-to-back starts. The young rookie was able to shut the door once again against a team that is known to put up a fight.
Murray stood up to the Philadelphia forwards who generated chances low near the net, but could not bury any shots. The goaltending has been one of the Penguins finest weapons this season. Even during the rough stretches, Fleury and Murray have become a scary duo.
Murray’s confidence has only risen since playing on pro ice, and it will be exciting to see how much time coach Mike Sullivan will give him in the playoffs. Of course, you want your best goalie between the pipes, but if Fleury should happen to struggle or get injured, Murray will be the clear choice.
After today’s win, the Penguins have put up five or more goals in the last six of their eight games.
Speed Kills
The Penguins exhibited, for yet another night, that speed is what makes the offense so exciting lately. The second goal, by Bennett, was set up perfect by a speeding Conor Sheary down the right wing. The puck was finely threaded in front of Steve Mason and was bumped in by Bennett.
Like so many other opponents, the Flyers just couldn’t keep up. Each one of Pittsburgh’s lines played well and kept momentum going from one shift to the next. Philadelphia was unable to keep the same pace, and it was clearly seen on the scoreboard.
The Penguins have continued to prove they are a team getting white hot as the playoffs are set to begin. Not only has Pittsburgh been able to beat teams who are not competitive, but when facing teams with something to play for, the Penguins have played all the more better.
What’s Next?
The Pittsburgh Penguins will now begin a three-game road trip to conclude the season when they visit the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.
Image Credit: @Penguins
