The Pens scored first against New Jersey, and the game actually opened up a bit during the second and third periods. All told, this was a solid effort by the Pens. They were able to control the play for much of the game.
Not only did they score first, but it was a power play goal when they did it. That's impressive, and hopefully a sign of things to come (especially if Jordan Staal gets the scoring touch going).
More significantly, both the Flyers and Lightning lost tonight, which means the Pens are three points ahead of the Bolts and just one point behind the Flyers. All three teams have two games remaining.
Who scored?
Staal (11), Dupuis (15, 16), Kunitz (23)
The Good?
- HCDB rolled the lines all night long. No one played less than 11 minutes. The Pens have a distinct advantage when they play this way at even-strength.
- They scored first!! Leading directly into...
- The game wasn't completely boring!! It had some shots, some scoring and some decent chances on both ends.
The Bad?
- Jordan Staal - tripping call with less than two minutes left in a one-goal game. That could have been disastrous. Fortunately the Pens were able to score the empty net shorty to seal the win.
The Ugly?
- Not really ugly, but still waiting to Kovalev, Letestu and Neal to get going offensively. They're not doing much right now.
Any Surprises?
- I was shocked there were more than 50 shots total in this game.
What's their record now? Any important move in the standings?
The Pens are now 47-25-8. As noted above, they have a real chance, if they win out, to pass the Flyers and move into one of the top spots in the East.
Who's next?
The rematch with the Isles on Friday in New York.
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