Following a game where the Pittsburgh Penguins (30-21-8) were outmatched deep into the game, they were able to rebound in a decisive victory over the Winnipeg Jets (26-30-4). The team looked back to their normal selves in today’s 4-1 victory.
Pittsburgh also saw Evgeni Malkin and Nick Bonino return to the ice and their presence was very much felt. Bonino was able to tally an assist on a goal by Scott Wilson. Malkin looked fresh in helping the offense push the puck deep into Winnipeg’s zone and had three shots on goal.
Carl Hagelin continued to be in the right place at the right time, scoring two goals in today’s game. It is clear that since his arrival on January 16 Hagelin has had a significant role in winning games for his club.
Defensive Resurgence
Pittsburgh played with something to prove since their defensive collapse in their last game against Boston. Coach Mike Sullivan talked to the press following yesterday’s skate and said “Each and every game we play is a battle. It you aren’t prepared and ready to play, you aren’t going to win.”
Sullivan was sure his team was prepared today and Pittsburgh won in almost every aspect of the game, but more importantly played physical on the boards and prevented momentum from swinging.
The defense, although allowing a power play goal in the second period, blocked 10 shots and was able to keep the Jets from blocking the view of Marc-Andre Fleury.
In fact, Fleury was a force in the game, stopping 27 shots and allowing only one goal. Pittsburgh needed a game like this from Fleury, who has been a bit inconsistent as of late. However, today showed why he is still considered one of the top goalies in the league.
Offensive Confidence
The offense has done a great job, with the exception of a few games, in passing and finding the open man. Hagelin has been a major piece in this offense that has found success in finding open ice.
Additionally, Wilson scored his fourth goal of the season and has really contributed to scoring since Bonino and Malkin were away from the ice. Even with their return, Wilson has continued to step up his play and has been a hidden gem in this roster.
Kris Letang also scored his 10th goal of the season and played a solid defensive game. Letang has been another piece of the puzzle that has been very flexible in Sullivan’s offense. His team will have to continue in being flexible because of an injury Connor Sheary suffered today.
As of right now there is no information on his injury, just that it is an upper body injury.
What’s Next
Pittsburgh will try to string two together this Monday at 7:00p.m. when they host the Arizona Coyotes.
