Penguins 3, Devils 1

So what happened?

The Pens showed their drive and intensity again today against the Devils, and this time it paid off. They took a 2-0 lead into the third period and were able to withstand the pressure from New Jersey. It was nice to see them hold onto the lead this time, instead of what happened on Saturday.

Who scored?
Goligoski (2), Letestu (2), Martin (1)

The Good?

• Goligoski blew a puck past Brodeur. I'm not taking anything away from Alex, but I think that's one that Martin would like to have back.
• Letestu and Tangradi both continue to impress. The even-strength ice time leaders for forwards? Sid was first, followed by Tangradi and Letestu. That says that Bylsma is happy with how they're playing.
• Letestu was rewarded tonight by going in front of the net and having a puck ricochet off of him (and about 17 other things) past Brodeur.
• Johnson was solid with several flashes of brilliance.
• There were several times where the Pens were able to get the puck to the net and crash with authority. That is encouraging.
• Sid drew two penalties with his work effort. The one he drew on Kovalchuk was especially gratifying given their history.

The Bad?

• The Pens were unable to capitalize on an extended 5-on-3 that could have prevented some of the third period excitement. They only had one shot attempted during the nearly 80 seconds. Too much passing and too little shooting and crashing.
• Michalek left after being crunched into the boards by Rod Pelley. It looked like something on his right upper-body. He didn't return.
• Brooks Orpik was a late scratch for undisclosed reasons. Hopefully he's not hurt too badly.

Anything Ugly?

Nothing, really.

Any surprises?
You'd have to say it was a surprise that there weren't any noticeable mental letdowns. The Pens kept things fairly simple and they won the game because of that.

Any change in the standings?

The Pens are no longer last in the NHL. I'll get a bit more serious about updating this part as the season gets a little further along.

Who's next?
Wednesday night, the Leafs come to the Igloo for a rare 7:30 start (thanks, Canada).

Notes:

• I wonder if Bylsma is using the second power play unit as a reward for effort shown in practice and the game. The makeup seems to shift constantly.
• Speaking of the power play, we've now seen Cooke, Kunitz, Rupp and Tangradi parked in front of the goalie on the top unit.