This evening the Pittsburgh Penguins (36-24-8) faced a tough match against the New York Islanders (38-20-9). A Chris Kunitz goal in the first period was the single goal between both sides up until the final five minutes of the game.
Kyle Okposo was able to put the puck right under a Marc-Andre Fleury to tie the game at one a piece. In overtime both teams had good opportunities to secure the extra point, but neither was able to end the game.
In the shootout Kris Letang was the only shooter to be able to score after he managed to put the puck behind Jean-Francois Berube. After the backhander from Letang, Fleury sealed the 2-1 victory stopping John Tavares.
No Geno, No Problem
One surprising aspect of tonight’s game was how well Pittsburgh was able to fill the lanes and put pressure on the Islanders defense. Without Evgeni Malkin, the offense was thought to be in a bit more of dismay. However, this evening proved that the Penguins could continue to roll without their second best player.
Although not putting many goals on the board, the offense did finish the game with 34 shots on goal against Berube. Failing to score on three power play attempts, however, was not as much of a surprise.
The offense was able to keep pressure on New York with the help of Sidney Crosby and Nick Bonino. Each had five shots on goal and looked well polished in this evening’s game.
Additionally, Patric Hornqvist did a superb job of getting to the net and jamming the goalie. Pittsburgh’s offense may not have put up big numbers, but their ability to not let up and put shots on net is what kept the Islanders from scoring more than one goal.
Bloomin’ Flower
Yet another game that was stolen away from the opponent because of Fleury’s amazing ability. Pittsburgh’s netminder finished the game making 25 saves and allowing only one goal on a New York power play.
The lone goal came from the inability of both him and the defense being unable to corral the puck into their possession. In the shootout, he was able to stop the Islanders best scorers and did not allow himself to be beaten.
Fleury has been one of the few consistent bright spots on the team throughout the whole season as he earned his 30th win of the season. He has also been able to accumulate a 2.32 goals against average and a 92.2% save percentage.
What’s Next?
The Penguins will next play the Carolina Hurricanes at Consol Energy Center this Thursday at 7:00 p.m.
