The first and third periods were good, maybe even excellent. The second one? Not so much. The Ducks scored three times in the second amid sloppy play and defensive breakdowns to beat the Pens, who were unable to get quite enough offense to tie the game.
Who scored?
Crosby 2 (7,8)
Crosby 2 (7,8)
The Good?
- The Pens were hitting everything that moved for much of the first period. It was effective hockey and it was exciting to watch.
- The effort was there, especially once the Ducks made it 3-0 and Bylsma called for a timeout. Everyone chipped in and made a great effort.
- Despite being down, Bylsma kept rolling the lines. I think this will pay huge dividends later in the season, not only in keeping Sid and Geno fresh, but also in keeping everyone involved and (hopefully) improving.
- The power play finally scored.
The Bad?
- The second period. Defensive breakdowns led directly to all three Ducks goals (and some luck on the part of the Ducks too).
- Michalek was a -2. He hasn't played very well yet, but he's still just getting back from injury. He's also being asked to go up against the best of the other team normally.
- The Ducks top line exposed the fact that the Pens can be hemmed into their own end by size. Getzlaf, Perry and Ryan were dominant, especially in the second.
Anything Ugly?
- Saku Koivu flopping like a house of cards to short circuit the Pens power play in the third was ugly (and, unfortunately, effective).
Any surprises?
- Nothing comes to mind.
What's their record now? Any important move in the standings?
The Pens are now 6-7-1. They've lost five of their past six games and are four points behind Philly for the lead in the Atlantic and two points behind the Rangers.
Who's next?
A quick turnaround to Phoenix for a game tonight.
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