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The Rise of Sidney Crosby
Since the beginning, hockey fans have eagerly awaited the emergence of the next mega star. Finally, it has begun with the rise of Sidney Crosby.
Every so often a hockey phenom emerges that lives up to the hype. There was Mario Lemieux, Wayne Gretzky, and now Sidney Crosby.
Sidney Crosby News and Information
Since Sidney Crosby's Comeback Has Him at 2 Goals and 10 Assists in 7 Games
Monday December 3, 2011
Tonight marks Sidney Crosby's seventh game since his return to the ice after suffering that concussion 11 months ago. And Crosby picked up an assist in the Penguins 3-2 victory over the Hurricanes.
Over the last seven games Sidney Crosby has notched 2 goals and 10 assists. And fans are happy to have him back on the ice. So are the Penguins. After all, Crosby can score, assist, win faceoffs, and more. In fact, he is no doubt one of the world's finest player in the NHL today (the best some will rightfully say).
The way Crosby patiently waited to fully recover from the concussion and then return with such impact is incredible. In fact, Jesse Spector of the Sporting News says Crosby has set a super example. Here's a link to the video that is worth a watch.
Sidney Crosby Comeback: Scores 2 Goals and Excites The Crowd
Monday November 21, 2011
Sidney Crosby made an incredible comeback scoring 2 Goals and getting 2 assists after playing in his first NHL game in about 11 months. Not only that but Crosby's faceoff performance rocked too! He won 14 of 21 draws.
Sidney Crosby's comeback night resulted in a 5-0 victory of the New York Islanders. Here's a few cool facts: This was Crosby's 21st NHL career 4 point game, according to TSN research Sidney Crosby moved up 243 spots in the 2011-12 NHL Scoring race, and it only took him just over 5 minutes (5:24) to score his first goal of the 2011-12 season. (facts taken from: Seven facts about Sidney Crosby's comeback classic with Penguins)
Here's a cool video of Sidney Crosby's comeback game
Sidney Crosby Plays Contact Hockey For First Time Since 2011 Concussion
Thursday October 13, 2011
Sidney Crosby played contact hockey during practice with the Pittsburgh Penguins for the first time since his January 2011 concussion.
The plan is to see how he responds. This is great news for fans who months earlier wondered if he would ever recover enough to play again. And if he did would he take family advice and consider retiring from the NHL.
It looks like Sidney Crosby has no plans to retire. He seems to be recovering well from his concussion and shows no symptoms at this date.
Problem is none of his team mates will hit him. So check out the video where Sidney Crosby explains how he plans to get his team mates to get physical with him.
Sidney Crosby Kisses The Cup
Friday June 12, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins are the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Champions! And Crosby is the youngest captain to ever hoist the cup. Sorry about your luck Hossa! More information to be added soon.
Sidney Crosby Eyes Stanley Cup as Penguins Force Game 7 with a 2-1 Victory Over Red Wings
Tuesday June 7, 2009
For the first time in Penguins history they've forced a Game 7 Stanley Cup final winner take all showdown. And it wasn't superstars Evgeni Malkin or Sidney Crosby who scored in the game 6 2-1 victory, it was Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy. These two youngsters were named the second and third stars of the game. And Marc Andre Fleury was named first star for good reason.
You see, Fleury made some big saves. Sure the Penguins did a fantastic job of limiting Detroit's chances all game, especially during the first two periods (Detroit was outshot 24-12), so Fleury had a less pressure on him but when it was time to perform he was brilliant. During the third period Detroit came at the Penguins hard. They ended up outshooting Pittsburgh 14-7 in the final period.
During this final period Fleury made one of his most spectacular saves with less than two minutes left in the game. Dan Cleary was on a breakaway but Fleury made a sweet stop with his pads. Just after that there was a lose puck in the crease and Johan Frazen desperately tried shoving it into the net. But thanks to Fleury and the help of Rob Scuderi's blocks they were able to stop the puck. (Looked like Scuderi was trying to take over Fleury's goal tending job).
The first period was exciting too. The Penguins were fast and on top of things creating many scoring chances and limiting Detroit to just 3 shots.
In the second Jordan Staal scored the first goal for the Penguins not even a minute into the period.
In the third Kennedy got his goal putting Pittsburgh up 2-0.
Detorit was able to get one goal during the third but the Penguins stood their ground and held on for the win.
With Pittsburgh's track record of making big comebacks Red Wing fans should be nervous. Because Friday's final game could be the Penguins biggest comeback ever!
Now it comes down to one game on Friday night. Nothing else matters. The winner of Game 7 of the 2009 NHL Stanley Cup Final will make history.
Allowing Red Wings Deadly Power-Play to Surface is No Way For Penguins to Beat Defending Stanley Cup Champions Wings Defeat Penguins 5-0 in Game 5
Saturday June 6, 2009
Right off the bat Pittsburgh dominated early in the first period. In fact, they fired of three shots on goal in under three minutes and kept the puck in Detroits end for long stretches. Unfortunately they were unable to convert those into goals.
The Penguins kept the pressure going, obviously they were on an unstoppable mission. At one point in under a minute we saw a nice wrist shot by Tyler Kennedy, followed by Jordan Staal's big hit on Niklas Kronwall, and Craig Adams' shot that was stopped by Osgood.
The Penguins didn't stop there. It continued with Sidney Crosby winning a face off against Henrik Zetterberg. And Sergei Gonchar drilling a shot at Osgood, seconds later, Crosby did the same. The Penguins were playing a perfect game except none of the scoring chances they created would convert.
All of a sudden Dan Cleary scored for Detroit a little over thirteen minutes into the first period. This shifted the momentum in Detroit's favor.
Early in the second The Wings scored again. And Pittsburgh took a series of penalties, three of which Detroit capitalized on. By the end of the second period Detroit was leading the game 5-0.
The Red Wings are known for their deadly power-play and during the Stanley Cup final Pittsburgh should've been more disciplined.
Now the Penguins have their backs to the wall. They must win Game 6 to stay alive and Game 7 to win the Cup. If not the Wings could reemerge as the Stanley Cup champions. But as we've seen before the Penguins never give up and are known to make big comebacks.
Outstanding Shorthanded Game Tying Goal by Jordan Staal Followed by Sidney Crosby's Game Winner Makes it an even 2-2 Stanley Cup Finals Series between Penguins and Red Wings
Thursday June 4, 2009
What an exciting game! Sidney Crosby got the game winning goal and assisted Tyler Kennedy on a fabulous goal. And Crosby along with Evgeni Malkin, Mark Andre Fleury, and Jordan Staal had a big impact on the game results.
Malkin was a mad man and played his heart out. He got a goal and assisted Crosby as the two rushed up the ice on a breakaway. The goal came two minutes, one second shy, after Staal's goal.
Jordan Staal was insane busting past Detroit while the Penguins were outnumbered to get the short handed game tying goal. Here's the impressive part; Pittsburgh just killed off a power play and were in the middle of killing off another (the penalties were back to back overlapping by a couple of seconds). What an outstanding performance by Jordan Staal.
Then less than a minute later Sidney Crosby came up clutch with the game winner.
We have mention that Marc Andre Fleury had one of his best performances this series. In fact, many of his saves were big ones. Not too mention he had a lot of traffic, and screening, directly in front of the crease frequently this hockey game. Fleury was key for the Pittsburgh Penguins this game.
And did you see the cheap shot Slash by Detroit's Matsby to the side of Sidney Crosby's knee. Too bad the refs didn't see that one. It was crystal clear on the tv replays.
What matters is the Penguins beat the Wings 4-2 at Mellon Arena to tie up the series 2-2 and will head back to Detroit for Game 5. This is getting good!
Sidney Crosby Finally Gets a Point in 2009 NHL Stanly Cup Finals as Penguins Defeat Red Wings 4-2 in Game 3
Tuesday June 2, 2009
Sidney Crosby finally picked up a point in this championship series against the Red Wings. You see, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin assisted on Sergei Gonchar's game winning goal at the midway point of the third period. And Malkin also picked up 2 assists on both of Pittsburgh's first period goals scored by Maxime Talbot and Kris Letang. Malkin leads scoring this post season with 33 points.
Despite being limited to one point this series Crosby is making many key plays and setting up excellent scoring chances.
The Red Wings put up fierce competition for the Penguins but were able to capitalize on the power play. You see, the Wings rarely take penalties so when they do its important to take advantage of it. And the Penguins did 2 out of 3 times in Game 3. In fact, the two goals Pittsburgh scored on the power-play were vital. These two goals came from Kris Letang in the first period to tie the game and Sergei Gonchar's third period game winner.
Not only were these goals important to win Game 3 but to keep Pittsburgh's hopes of winning the Stanley Cup alive. And Marc Andre Fleury did his part too making several key saves. Like Don Cherry said after Game 1, "give the kid a break." In the previous two games Fleury was criticized but I still say Detroit got lucky a few times and Pittsburgh's goaltender is doing fine.
So now the Penguins have won a game making it a 2-1 series for the Wings.
Today Sidney Crosby was nominated as a finalist for the Mark Messier NHL Leadership award. The other candidates are Boston's Zedeno Chara and Calgary's Jarome Iginla.
And here's some video highlights from Game 3 of the 2009 Stanly Cup Playoffs Final between the Penguins and Red Wings.
Sidney Crosby Set Up Several Scoring Chances that Fell Short as Red Wings Win Game 2 of Stanley Cup Finals Against Penguins 3-1
Sunday May 31, 2009
Once again the Penguins played a great game. They created lots of scoring chances and kept the puck in the offensive zone for significant stretches of time. Sidney Crosby played especially well for the Penguins and created several scoring chances. He even fired off a few shots, one that went right off the post. In fact, the Penguins had 3 such chances that could have beat Detroit netminder Chris Osgood had they not hit the goal post.
Despite being down 2-0 in the series the Penguins game has potential to win them the cup. In fact, they have out-chanced and outshot their opponent, not to mention they improved their faceoff wins significantly in Game 2 compared to Game 1. Should they keep this up eventually they will get those chances to convert into goals.
Make no mistake about it the Penguins are a match for the Red Wings in every aspect of the game, except getting on the score sheet.
With Game 3 of this 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs series heading to Mellon arena the Penguins may shift the series momentum around.
The Penguins Obviously Belong in the Stanley Cup Finals despite Falling 3-1 to Red Wings in Game 1
Saturday May 30, 2009
Truth is the Detroit Red Wings were able to contain Pittsburgh's outstanding offense especially Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. But the Penguins showed they are better this time around and clearly controlled the game and the puck, at various stages of the game. And in all honesty Detroit got the breaks when it came to goals. You see, they scored on a two bounces off the rear boards and a bad rebound. Turns out these sloppy goals were the difference this game.
Sure, some are blaming Marc Andre Fleury for shaky play at times, especially on the goals that came from bounces off the boards, but he did a good job. Obviously it wasn't Fleury's best performance since the first two goals could have been prevented, but this was definitely not his worst either. So as Don Cherry said after the game "give the kid a break".
On the other end Chris Osgood was key for the Wings playing much better than during the regular season. He even shut down Evgeni Malkin on powerful breakaway shot.
Malkin did set up Ruslan Fedetenko's lone goal for Pittsburgh this game. Detroit made a sloppy turnover and Evgeni Malkin intercepted the puck feeding it to Fedetenko. This was a Red Wings mistake the Penguins were able to capitalize on. Unfortunately, the Wings didn't make too many mistakes tonight which limited Pittsburgh's chances to capitalize.
The Wings wouldn't even let Pittsburgh capitalize on the power-play as they effectively killed them off. This is more evidence that the Wings rarely make mistakes. But then again you didn't see many from Pittsburgh tonight either.
With a little improvement from Pittsburgh's defense and goaltending all that's left is for their offense to figure out how to penetrate Detroit's tough defense. And that's no easy task.
The good news is Pittsburgh was able to create several beautiful scoring chances this game, especially during the second period, and early in the third. Unfortunately, they were denied. If the Penguins keep it up chances are they'll win a few games too. And the goal is to win four.
Overall, both teams took turns dictating the game and both showed they are more than good enough to capture the Stanley Cup. This series might come down to who gets the lucky breaks.
This is going to be an intense 2009 Stanley Cup finals.
As a final thought, Sidney Crosby should have gotten a penalty shot during the third period. Clearly, from replay camera above Detroit's net the puck landed on Chris Osgood's back while he was on the ground and Henrik Zetterberg covered it with his left hand. But the refs seemed to miss that one.
Game 2 is tomorrow starting at 8pm, just across the Detroit river from us here in Windsor Ontario, at Joe Louis arena.
Sidney Crosby Gets Two Assists as 2009 Eastern Conference Champion Penguins Defeat Hurricanes 4-1
Tuesday May 26, 2009
The Penguins swept the Hurricanes and will return to the Stanley Cup finals for the second year in a row. Tonight's 4-1 victory in Game 4 has earned Pittsburgh the 2009 NHL Eastern Conference Championship title.
Sidney Crosby picked up two assists this game.
If the Detroit Red Wings defeat the Chicago Blackhawks on Wednesday we could have a rematch from last year's final battle for the Stanley Cup!
The Penguins Win Game 3 Beating The Hurricanes 6-2
Saturday May 23, 2009
The Penguins are now one victory away from reaching the Stanley Cup Championship round for the second year in a row. But they'll have to beat the Canes one more time. So far they lead the series 3-0.
Sidney Crosby got a goal and an assist this game.
Sidney Crosby Scores First Goal of Playoffs Game for Sixth Time in a Season Tying NHL Record and Evgeni Malkin Gets First Ever Career NHL Playoffs Hat Trick Giving Penguins a 7-4 Win Over Hurricanes
Thursday May 21, 2009
Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins beat the Carolina Hurricanes 7-4 in Game 2 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs Eastern Conference Finals. The Penguins now lead the series 2-0.
And Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin both reached milestones in their NHL careers as they continue the chase the Stanley Cup.
You see, Sidney Crosby scored the first goal of the game. This is the sixth time this playoff season he has done that. And he has tied an NHL record for doing so. Bobby Hull did it first while playing for the Blackhawks in 1962 and Fernando Pisani did it in 2006 while with the Oiliers.
Meanwhile, Evgeni Malkin achieved his first career NHL playoffs hat trick with the second goal being the game winner.
Here's the thing Malkin didn't tie any NHL records tonight but Crosby did. You'd think tying an NHL record would deserve the spotlight. Not this time though. After all, it's the playoffs. Considering Evgeni Malkin scored three goals for the hat trick, added an assist, contributed the game winning goal, and surpassed Sidney Crosby to take over the 2009 NHL Playoffs points race at 25 (Crosby has 24) he surely deserved the spotlight.
So wouldn't you think Sidney Crosby might be bitter? After all he is one of three players to score six game-opening goals in a playoff year.
I highly doubt Sidney Crosby is jadded. Make no mistake about it both players have made it crystal clear that points and milestones is not what's important to them, especially not now. They and the rest of the Pittsburgh Penguins have one focus, to win the Stanley Cup. It seems they're on the right track. In fact, if they win the Cup this season they'll be the first team since the 1984 Edmonton Oilers to lose the in the Stanley Cup finals to come back and win the next.
Sidney Crosby Limited to One Point Despite Several Flawless Setups in Penguins Playoffs Game 1 Victory Over Hurricanes
Monday May 18, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins played a tight Stanley Cup playoffs Game 1 against the Carolina Hurricanes. The Penguins emerged victorious 3-2 in this round 3 Eastern Conference showdown and now lead the series 1-0.
So far Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have been the big point getters for the Penguins this playoff run. However, Crosby only picked up one point (it could have easily been 5 or 6 points though… more on that in a minute). And Evgeni Malkin lost out on a point when he missed a breakaway because the Hurricane defense gave him very little moving room and he was unable to get the goal. The good news is Malkin did score a nice backhand goal (the second of the game for the Pens) and he also assisted on Philippe Boucher's third period game winning power play goal.
And Sidney Crosby picked up just one point also assisting on Philippe Boucher's third period power play goal. He also only had two shots on net. But here's the thing, Crosby's performance was phenomenal. In fact, he executed 5 or 6 flawless set ups that his team mates could have easily scored a goal with. The only problem is Hurricane's goaltender Cam Ward put on a stellar performance. And so did Marc Andre Fleury.
In this tight back and forth game, it came down to the goaltenders. And both played an excellent game.
So as you can see Sidney Crosby is not about points and goals. It seems he is taking the team player approach and its paying off. Not too mention his all around game has improved from last year's playoff run. Oh yeah... Sidney Crosby is now leading the 2009 NHL Playoffs points race with 22.
The Penguins had a couple of nice contributions from Miroslav Satan and Philippe Boucher. Satan got the first goal of the game and Boucher got the game winner. In fact, Boucher didn't even know he'd be playing until pre-game warm ups. He was inserted into the line up to help relieve Sergei Gonchar. Gonchar injured his knee last round and is getting back into shape.
In the end Boucher was named the fist star of the game. He had an assist on Malkin's goal and put in the game winning goal during the third period. Carolina's Chad Larose was the second star of the game and Marc Andre Fleury was third.
Carolina's Eric Staal was no where to be found on the score sheet. The Hurricanes got goals from Chad Larose (assisted by Erik Cole and Matt Cullen) and Joe Corvo (assited by Ray Whitney and Rod Brind'Amour).
The Penguins now lead the 2009 Eastern Conference Playoff Finals series 1-0.
And here's a video recap of the game...
Sidney Crosby and The Penguins Crush Alexander Ovechkin and The Capitals to Win Game 7
Wednesday May 13, 2009
It looks like Alexander Semin will have to eat his words from earlier this season! Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins eliminated the Washington Capitals.
This was Sidney Crosby's first playoff series Game 7 and he scored three points.
Final Score
Here is a video that shows game highlights
It's Beyond Sidney Crosby vs. Alexander Ovechkin as Penguins Forced into Game 7 by Capitals for the Big Showdown
Monday May 11, 2009
Here's what Sidney Crosby had to say after Game 6; "There was a lot of talk before the series started and it's everything it was made out to be, we would have loved to finish it off here and it could have worked out that way, but let's just say we're all not surprised that it's going seven."
Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby entered the NHL surrounded by hype. Fast-forward a few years later and the hype is real and a rivalry is building between these two incredible young stars. We've heard the trash talk between these two big stars. And Alexander Semin even bashed Crosby earlier in the season. As a matter of fact, this rivalry goes beyond the players and involves both teams too.
You see, this 2009 playoff series was billed as one of the most anticipated NHL playoff rounds in NHL history (personally I would say of modern NHL history). Anyhow, the best stars in the league are involved in this one. The names include Crosby, Malkin, Fleury, Gonchar, Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin, and Varlamov to name a few. The games have been very close. With Pittsburgh leading the series 3-2 going into game 6 it was do or die for Washington. And they pulled it off forcing game 7 by beating the Penguins 5-4 in overtime.
Pittsburgh opened up scoring just under six minutes into the first period with a goal by Bill Guerin assisted by Sidney Crosby and Chris Kunitz.
During the second period Washinton's Viktor Kozlov tied it up with assists from Alexander Ovechkin and Shaone Morrisonn. Then they pulled ahead with a goal from Tomas Fleischmann assisted by Sergei Fedorov and Alexander Semin. With Washington's Brian Pothier in the penalty box Mark Eaton got a power-play goal during the last minute of the period to tie it up. He was assisted by Evgeni Malkin and Philippe Boucher.
During the third period Pittsburgh's Kris Letang scored a power-play goal, assited by Goligoski and Malkin. But just under a minute later the Capitals tied it up again with a power-play goal from Brooks Laich assisted by Alexander Semain and Alexander Ovechkin. Half a minute later Niklas Backstrom and Alexander Ovechkin set up Viktor Kozlov to put the Capitals ahead by one. Pittsburgh battled hard and Sidney Crosby managed to score late in the period with assists by Brooks Orpik and Evgeni Malkin, sending the game into overtime.
This was the third overtime of the series and Pittsburgh won the previous two. But this time was different. David Steckel got the game winner forcing the Penguins into a game 7 situation.
Sidney Crosby scored a goal and got an assist. He was also penalized two minutes during the first period for interference. Rival Alexander Ovechkin didn't get any goals but had three assists. Evgeni Malkin didn't get any goals either but he also had three assists.
Viktor Kozlov was named the first star of the game, followed by Alexander Ovechkin, and Sidney Crosby respectively.
Pittsburgh outshot Washington 18-5 during the first, it was even during the second, and again they outshot them 14-9 in the third. By the end of the game including overtime Pittsburgh had outshot the Capitals 42-25. Despite this impressive effort it was still a losing cause. With the epic performance both teams have delivered the game could have gone either way.
The final score was 5-4 for the Capitals and Game 7 will take place on Wednesday in Washington at the Verizon Center. This is history in the making don't miss it.
All in all this series has not disappointed. And the two biggest names, Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin have accounted for just over 56% of the scoring with their combined goals and assists.
Watch the game recap here...
Penguins 4-3 Overtime Game 5 Victory Puts Stranglehold on Capitals
Saturday May 9, 2009
Tonight the Penguins fired off an incredible 42 shots at Capital's rookie netminder Simeon Varlamov and it paid off. Four of the goals went in for a 4-3 victory in overtime. Evgeni Malkin got the game winning goal early in overtime. It seems like the Penguins perseverance is paying off and they're making a dramatic comeback from a 2-0 deficit early in the series. But make no mistake about it the game could have went either way and Pittsburgh got lucky with their game winning goal that definitely wasn't of highlight reel caliber.
You see, Malkin's game winner was actually supposed to be a set up for Crosby to score. Here's what happened: With a Pittsburgh power-play coming to an end Crosby and Malkin began a rush down the ice. Crosby was driving down the center towards the net with Malkin on the right side. Malkin passed to Crosby but Capitals defender Tom Poti dove to block it. As Poti went down his stick knocked the puck into the net. Not a pretty goal but it was a winner.
The point is the Penguins were aggressive in getting shots on net, controlling the puck, and making few mistakes. That's very important when playing another excellent team like Washington. And it paid off as Pittsburgh is now within one win of winding up the series.
Sidney Crosby was held pointless this game. But rival Alexander Ovechkin managed two goals and one assist. This was enough for him to pull ahead of Crosby as the NHL Playoffs leader in points and goals by one in each category. Ovechkin has 17 points and 10 goals. Crosby has 16 points and 9 goals.
Evgeni Malkin was named the first star of the game for good reason. You see, he went all out every shift and the results showed. In addition to getting the game winning goal, he drew the first of two penalties during overtime while driving through Washington's defense, and he also set up Ruslan Fedetinko's game tying goal during the third period. Things looked good for Pittsburgh when Matt Cooke made it 3-2 but Ovechkin's second goal of the game tied it up 3-3 by the end of regulation. But thanks to Malkin's OT goal the Penguins emerged victorious.
This win gives Pittsburgh a 3-2 series lead that puts the Capitals in a "do or die" situation for Game 6 to take place at Mellon Arena.
Make no mistake about it though, the Capitals will be fighting for their lives in Game 6 and it won't be easy for the Penguins.
Game One of the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs Round 2 Big Showdown Results in a Loss for the Penguins
Saturday May 2, 2009
Round 2 of the 2009 NHL Playoffs is being billed as the big showdown between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals. In fact, some are calling it the biggest showdown in NHL history!
Here's why.
Some of the biggest names in the league are involved (such as Marc Andre Fleury, Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin, Niklas Backstrom, Alexander Semin, and Simeon Varlamov), there's an intensifying rivalry, and many tabloid-like storylines emerging between these teams. But it seems the hockey players are keeping focused on the game.
Today game one of the series was a tight back and forth game that ended in a victory for the Capitals.
Two of the biggest hyped players, Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby, each scored a goal. Crosby scored the first goal of the game just over four minutes into the game. By the end of the first period the Capitals pulled ahead by one goal when David Steckel got his first playoff goal this season followed by Ovechkin's power-play goal.
Pittsburgh's Mark Eaton scored the only goal during the second period to tie up the game. Crosby almost scored to get Pittsburgh ahead when he ripped a shot on net with the Capital's goalie out of position. Just as Crosby was about to celebrate, Varlamov made a desperate attempted to stop the puck by twisting his body and lunging. He got lucky and blocked the puck.
But early in the third period Washington's Tomas Fleischmann scored the final goal of the game. His game winning goal gave Washington the 3-2 win over Pittsburgh. Washington now leads the series 1-0.
While Crosby and Ovechkin both scored goals, the other big names in Evgeni Malkin and Alexander Semin picked up points with assists. Two for Semin and one for Malkin.
Marc Andre Fleury stopped 23 of 26 shots and Simeon Varlamov stopped 34 of 36.
Down 3-0 in Second Period Penguins Miraculously Change Momentum for a 5-3 Victory over Flyers Advancing to Round 2 of Playoffs
Saturday April 25, 2009
Tonight Sidney Crosby got the game tying goal, Sergei Gonchar got the game winner early in the third period, and Crosby sealed the deal with an empty netter at the end of the third period. And the Penguins emerged victorious in game 6 of their round one Stanley Cup Playoffs battle with Philadelphia. Not only did they win the game 5-3 but they also have polished off the series winning 4 games out of 6.
Early in the game things looked bad for the Penguins. In fact, 90% of teams who score first in a playoffs game usually win the game. And the Flyers dominated the first period scoring twice (with goals by Mike Knuble and Joffrey Lupul only 51 seconds apart). Then just over four minutes into the second period the Flyers made it a 3-0 game with a power-play goal from Danny Briere. The Penguins hopes of clinching the series in game 6 looked impossible.
But the Penguins never gave up and their persistence paid off. You see, just 29 seconds after the Flyers made it a 3-0 game, Evgeni Malkin tried to shove the puck under Martin Biron who stopped it but Ruslan Fedotenko took over and put the loose puck into the net. Fedotenko's first playoff goal in 5 years finally put Pittsburgh on the scoreboard. Even though Braydon Coburn decided to knock Fedotenko down right after the goal, he sat on the ice with a grin as a scuffle broke out. And that's when the momentum of the game shifted into Pittsburgh's favor.
Shortly after Mark Eaton was on a two on one where he picked up Tyler Kennedy's rebound and scored the second goal of the game. Sidney Crosby got the game tying goal about ten minutes later as he put a bouncing puck into the net.
During the third period Sergei Gonchar got the game winner a couple of minutes in and Crosby got the late period empty netter to seal the deal. Sidney Crosby ended up with two goals and Evgeni Malkin two assists this game.
Marc Andre Fleury stopped 22 of 25 shots and Martin Biron stopped 30 of 34. Evgeni Malkin was named the first star of the game, Ruslan Fedotenko second, and Danile Briere third.
This rivalry battle of Pennsylvania went if favor of the Penguins as they win the Eastern Conference first round series eliminating the Flyers. The loud Philadelphia crowd quieted down towards the end of the game and left in silent disappointment.
The Penguins will advance to round 2 and the Flyers can be found on the golf course.
Flyers Blank Penguins in Game 5 for a 3-0 Win
Thursday April 23, 2009
The Flyers managed to shut down the Penguins in Game 5 to avoid elimination. Although the Penguins outshot the Flyers during the first period 15-5 Martin Biron managed to stop every shot. In fact, thanks to Biron's stellar performance he managed to get his second NHL career playoff shutout.
Game 6 takes place Saturday and its do or die for the Flyers. If the Penguins win they will advance to the next round. Otherwise it will go to game 7 giving the Flyers another chance at advancing.
Here are some reports on the game:
Biron, Flyers blank Penguins to stay alive
Pittsburgh Puts a Stanley Cup Playoffs Series 3-1 Stranglehold on Philadelphia and Wins Game 4
Tuesday April 21, 2009
The Flyers played full steam ahead dictating most of the game but the Penguins managed to win anyways. You see, Marc Andre Fleury put on a stellar performace and deserves much of the credit.
In fact, Pittsburgh was outshot (46-26), outhit (24-12) and outchanced by Philadelphia. But Marc Andre Fleury more than made up for it with one of his best post season performances ever.
Sidney Crosby got the first goal of the game during the second period. In fact, his entire body followed the puck into the net. The Flyer's weren't impressed and demanded the goal be reviewed. In the end the goal stood.
You can watch all the goals for this game in the ESPN video below.
Evgeni Malkin didn't get any points but still leads the 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs in points with 7. Sidney Crosby now has a total of 6 points.
The Penguins won the game 3-1 and lead the series 3-1.
Marc Andre Fleury was named the first star of the game, followed by Tyler Kennedy, and Mike Richards.
The Flyers Get Physical in Playoffs Game 3 Beating the Penguins 6-3
Sunday April 19, 2009
Back on home ice for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs series the desperate Flyers started out the game trailing the series 2-0. But the Flyers reputation of rough physical play showed its face tonight.
By the end of the game Pittsburgh had a total of 28 penalty minutes and Philadelphia had 30. That's a total of 58 penalty minutes! And it paid off for the Flyers. Their aggressive style helped them win the game 6-3, making it a 2-1 series with Pittsburgh ahead by one game.
Make no mistake about it, Pittsburgh stood their ground fighting and shoving right back at the Flyers.
In fact, one of the most punishing hits so far in this series was delivered by Penguins forward Chris Kunitz during the first period. You see, Jeff Carter and Mike Richards had just scored a goal each only minutes apart for the Flyers. The Flyers were up 2-0.
Seconds later Kunitz leveled Kimmo Timonen who had his head down. Timonen looked more like a gymnast as he almost flipped all the way around onto his head. Kunitz recieved a 5 minute fighting major after Scott Hartnell scrapped with him in retaliation for the hit on Timonen.
The first period was intense filled with punishing hits and fights. And the Philly fans at the Wachovia Center were going wild.
All of sudden, with only 12 seconds left in the first period Evgeni Malkin scored. And merely 13 seconds into the second period, Rob Scuderi received a pass from Sidney Crosby and put the puck past Martin Biron to tie the game.
The roaring crowed fell silent.
But Philly was able to pull ahead by one with a goal from rookie Claude Giroux. Then they pulled ahead by two when Simone Gagne put one past Marc Andre Fleury.
in the final period the Flyers scored again thanks to Jared Ross making it 5-2. Evgeni Malkin was able to get his second goal of the game cutting Philly's lead to 2 (5-3).
But that wasn't enough and toward the end of the game Pittsburgh pulled Fleury for the man advantage. And Simone Gagne got the empty netter for a final score of 6-3 Philadelphia.
Sidney Crosby notched two assists this game. And Evgein Malkin got two goals.
Flyer's rookie Claude Giroulx (scored his first career playoff goal) was named first star of the game, followed by teammate Simone Gagne second, and Evgeni Malkin was the third.
Game 4 takes place on Tuesday in Philadelphia.
Penguins win Game 2 Beating Flyers with Overtime Goal From 38 Year Old Bill Guerin
Friday April 17, 2009
Tonight the Flyers opened up scoring with a power play goal by Scott Hartnell during the first period. Thanks to Marc Andre Fleury's phenomenal play they weren't able to get another goal before Pittsburgh was able to tie it up.
Late in the second period is when the Penguins tied it up 1-1. The goal came from Bill Guerin, assisted by Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby. Bill Guerin is thirty eight years old which makes his outstanding performance that much more impressive.
"He took eight shots, was credited with two hits and blocked a shot. He also played 23:03 -- not bad for a 38-year-old." NHL.com Game Recap.
Early in the third Philadelphia managed to pull ahead by one with a goal from Darrol Powe's wrist shot.
The Flyers could have made it a two goal lead was it not for a brilliant stop by Fleury. The media is calling it the "save of the season".
You see, sniper Jeff Carter and Joffrey Lupul were on a two on one. Carter tried passing to Lupul but the puck went back to Carter when Gonchar blocked it. At the same time Fleury slid to the side the puck was heading too. Carter then fired the puck at a wide open net and should have easily scored. Don't tell Fleury that though because he miraculously reached back and denied Carter the goal.
A few minutes later with just under four minutes left, Evgeni Malkin managed a tip in power play goal (it bounced off of two players before going in) with assists from Kris Letang and Sergei Gonchar. This sent the game into overtime.
Overtime was a draw until just one and a half minutes were left. That's when Flyers Claude Giroux and Kimmo Timonen were in the penalty box giving the Penguins a 5-3 man advantage. Bill Guerin got his second goal of this playoff game and a win for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Guerin was acquired at the trade deadline from the New York Islanders and is contributing quite nicely to the Penguins. He was named the first star of the game, followed by Evgeni Malkin second, and Flyer's goaltender Martin Biron third.
Final score 3-2 Pittsburgh.
The Penguins now lead this first round playoffs series 2-0 over Philadelphia. Game 3 takes place this Sunday in Philadelphia.
Sidney Crosby Gets First Playoff Goal as Pittsburgh Penguins Beat Philadelphia Flyers 4-1 in Game 1 Round one of 2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs
Wednesday April 15, 2009
During the opening game of the first-round Eastern Conference playoff series Sidney Crosby scored a goal first 4:41 into the first period.
Crosby managed to kick Malkin's deflected pass onto his stick and past Martin Biron. Malkin got the assist (along with Sergei Gonchar). Malkin also scored an unassisted backhand goal during the third period for his first goal of the 2009 playoffs.
And Crosby picked up an assist too when he and Kris Letang helped Mark Eaton score just half way into the thrid period.
So Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby both ended up with a goal and an assist this game.
The game winner came during the second period. The lone goal that period came from Tyler Kennedy assisted by Jordan Staal.
Crosby's goal set the tone for the game with his opening power play goal. By mid thrid period it was a 4-0 game for Pittsburgh. The Flyers did manage a goal from Simon Gagne, assisted by Mike Richards, with about five mintues left in the game.
Marc Andre Fleury didn't see much action the first two periods as Pittsburgh dominated offensively and handled Philadelphia's physical play with keeping time in the penalty box to a minimum.
Jordan Staal was named the first star of the game, followed by Marc Andre Fleury second and Sidney Crosby third.
This was the fourth Eastern Conference playoffs series opener in a row that the Penguins have won.
Lets hope the Penguins will carry this momentum into game 2 and the rest of the series.
And congradulations to Penguins forward Chris Kunitz whose wife gave delivery to their first child ten hours before the game started.
Pittsburgh Penguins Get Home Ice Advantage for Round One of Playoffs
Sunday April 12, 2009
The New York Rangers beat the Philadelphia Flyers 4-3. Since they failed to get a point home ice advantage for round one of the Penguins vs the Flyers Stanley Cup playoffs goes to Pittsburgh. Game 1 starts at 7pm Wednesday at Mellon Arena.
Penguins 3-1 Win Over Canadiens Guarantees Another Battle of Pennsylvania with Flyers for Playoffs
Saturday April 11, 2009
Tonight's victory has destined the Pittsburgh Penguins to faceoff against the Philadelphia Flyers for the first round of the 2008-09 Stanley Cup Playoffs. The question is who will get home ice advantage? We'll know after the Flyers play the Rangers on Sunday. If Philadelphia gets one point (overtime or shootout) or 2 points for regulation time win, then they'll get home ice advantage. If they lose the Penguins will start round one of the playoffs at Mellon arena. Now lets go over the Penguins Canadiens game…
Evgeni Malkin opened up scoring just over a minute into the game. To give him 113 points for his first scoring title ever. Malkin beat out Ovechkin by three points to win the Art Ross Trophy. He is the fourth Penguins player since 1988 to win the Art Ross (Sidney Crosby, Mario Lemieux, and Jaromir Jagr were the others). During tonight's game Malkin picked up Sergei Gonchar's rebound putting it between Carey Price's pads. It was a nice play by this well deserving 2008-09 NHL scoring champion. By the end of the first period Montreal managed to score a goal to make it a tie game 1-1.
The second period remained scoreless. However, Carey Price played a spectacular game. In fact, late in the period the crowd enthusiastically chanted his name over and over after his highlight reel save. You see, Matt Cooke and Maxime Talbot were on a 2 on 1. Talbot set up Cooke but Price dove to make a beautiful glove save. Moments later he made a similar play this time with a shot coming at him from Bill Guerin.
Then almost half way into the third period Maxime Talbot, assisted by Pascal Dupuis, scored what turned out to be the game winning goal. And less than a minute after that Kris Letang got Pittsburgh's final goal. Final score 3-1.
Canadiens' goalie Carey Price was named the fist star of the game, followed by Pittsburgh's Kris Letang second and Pascal Dupuis third.
Pittsburgh's next game will be during round one of the Stanley Cup playoffs against Philadelphia.
Sidney Crosby's Goal Was One of Three From Pittsburgh During a Six Minute Span in a 6-1 Victory over the Islanders
Thursday April 9, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the New York Islanders 6-1. This victory keeps the Penguins in contention for home ice advantage during the playoffs. The Islanders finished last in the league and played like they had nothing to play for. The Penguins were able to get goals from Philippe Boucher, Pascal Dupuis (game winner) Matt Cooke, Bill Guerin, Sidney Crosby, and Tyler Kennedy.
The last three goals of the game came during a six minute span.
Evgeni Malkin got two assists, while Sidney Crosby picked up an assist along with his goal.
Malkin was named the first star of the game, Crosby second, and Goalie Mathieu Garon third.
The Penguins final regular season game is this Saturday against the Canadiens.
Pittsburgh Penguins Clench Playoff Spot and Crosby Gets 2 Goals for Third 100 Point Season Defeating Tampa Bay 6-3
Tuesday April 7, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 6-3 tonight to secure a spot in the 2008-09 Stanley Cup playoffs. Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game and reached 100 points for the third season in his career.
Ruslan Fedotenko scored first this game during the second period. Then just 10 minutes into the period, Sidney Crosby got the first of two power-play goals just 1:04 apart. The first was his 100th point of the season. Evgeni Malkin, now with 110 points, got his 75th assist on Crosby's 100th goal. Malkin also got a second point this game for assisting on Crosby's second goal. This is the first time since the 1995-96 season that two Pittsburgh players have reached 100 points during the same season (Mario Lemieux with 161 and Jaromir Jagr with 149 points did it back in 95-96).
Early during the third period, Matt Cooke's goal made it 4-0 for Pittsburgh. But Tampa Bay wasn't giving up, managing to get three goals in just over five minutes by mid period. Petr Sykor scored exactly two minutes later, his 300th career goal, to give the Penguins a two goal lead. Jeff Halpern (third star of the game) scored his second goal of the game with under a minute to go giving Tampa Bay a glimmer of hope. But with just 13 seconds left in the game Jordan Staal (second star of the game) neutralized the Lightning's hopes with the final goal of the game on an empty netter.
Final score, 6-4 Pittsburgh over Tampa Bay.
With this victory the Penguins are assured a spot in the 2008-09 NHL playoffs. They will begin round one anywhere from fourth to seventh seed depending on how the rest of the teams in the league finish off the regular season.
Sidney Crosby Drops the Gloves After Keith Ballard's Low Hit on Evgeni Malkin and Pittsburgh loses 4-2 to Florida
Sunday April 5, 2009
Sidney Crosby wasn't too happy with the low hit on Evgeni Malkin during the first period. In fact, after Ballard's low blow to Malkin, Crosby fought him. This got Crosby 2 minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct and a 5 minute fighting major. To make matters worse the Penguins lost the game and Crosby didn't get a point for the second game in a row.
Despite shooting 43 times on net the Penguins weren't able to penetrate Florida's goalie Tomas Vokoun.
The Penguins Fall to The Hurricanes 3-2 in Overtime
Saturday April 4, 2009
The Penguins opened up scoring thanks to Tyler Kennedy's first period goal. But by the end of the period it was tied 1-1. Eric Staal scored for the Canes.
Then in the second period Chad Larose put the Hurricanes up by one with a score of 2-1. During the third period Ruslan Fedotenko scored for the Penguins 3:34 into the period. The period ended with a tie sending the game into overtime.
Unfortunately, Anton Babchuk's slap shot beat Marc Andre Fleury and Carolina won the game 3-2 in overtime.
Sidney Crosby didn't get a point ending his game point streak at 16 games.
Sidney Crosby Comes Within a Point of Third 100 Point Season as Penguins Demolish Devils 6-1 at Mellon Arena
Wednesday April 1, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins destroyed the New Jersey Devils 6-1. Evgeni Malkin added another point to his NHL leading 108 points on a power-play goal. Sidney Crosby got a goal and an assist, bringing him within one point of another 100 point season. And the legendary Martin Brodeur, who recently broke Patrick Roy's record for most NHL career wins for a goalie, let too many pucks whizz into the net. It didn't help that the Devils are in a slump and the Penguins fired off 37 shots on net.
Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game, Evgeni Malkin second, and Hal Gill third.
During the first period Matt Cooke and Bill Guerin scored 36 seconds apart making it 2-0 for the Penguins. Maxime Talbot and Hal Gill were credited with assists on Cooke's goal, while Chris Kunitz and Marc Andre Fleury were given assists for Guerin's goal. This was Fleury's first assist of the season (it's not like too many goalies get assists). The last time Fleury got an assist was on November, 15, 2007 against the Islanders. Brian Gionta scored the lone goal for the Devils during this period. Before the first period ended Evgeni Malkin got his power-play goal.
During the second period, almost at the half way point,
Sidney Crosby tipped in the puck on the power play for his 30th goal
of the season. Kris Letang and Sergei Gonchar got the assists. Thirteen
seconds later Joardan Staal put a wrist shot past Brodeur, with assists
from Ruslan Fedotenko and Hal Gill.
It looks like the Penguins are playing a lot better these day and are going to make it into the playoffs.
While Evgeni Malkin leads the league with 108 points (beating his previous career best of 106) Crosby tallies in at 99 points, only 2 points behind Alexander Ovechkin.
Sidney Croby Gets Game Winning Goal in 4-3 Victory of Rangers
Saturday March 28, 2009
Today Sidney Crosby beat Henrik Lundvist to get the game winning goal. After getting a pass from Ruslan Fedotenko, Crosby exploded past two Rangers defenders and snapped the puck passed Lundqvist. This extends Crosby's game point streak to 15.
Fleury Shuts Out the Flames at the Igloo
Wednesday March 25, 2009
Tonight Marc Andre Fleury made several big saves to shutout the Calgary Flames in a 2-0 win for the Penguins. This was Fleury's fourth shutout of the season. Some of his biggest heroics came when the Flames were on the power-play as Fleury denied every chance they had.
Pittsburgh got the first goal of the game with a nice set up by Sidney Crosby. Crosby, at the goal line, picked up the rebound from Malkin's slap shot, sent the puck from his skate to his stick and then to Kris Letang who buried the puck. Chris Kunitz along with Crosby was credited with the assist. The assist has extended Sidney Crosby's point streak to 14 games.
The second goal came during the third period by big defender Hal Gill. This was Gill's second goal of the season. Evgeni Malkin and Rob Scuderi were credited with the assists. Malkin carried the puck into the Calgary zone and left it for Gill. Gill beat Mikka Kiprusoff with a very nice wrist shot that went into the top left corner of the net.
Malkin now leads the league with 107 points.
Sidney Crosby has at least one power-play assist in each of his past five games.
Marc Andre Fleury was named the first star of the game, followed by Hal Gill second, and Evgeni Malkin third.
Sidney Crosby vs Alexander Ovechkin For Real This Time as These Hockey Stars Get Physical
Sunday February 22, 2009
Today the Pittsburgh Penguins fell to the Washington Capitals 5-2. Alexander Ovechkin opened scoring during the first period for his league leading 43rd goal of the season. Maxime Talbot scored for the Penguins to tie it but Alexander Semin got a goal for the Capitals. The first period ended with Washington up by one goal.
During the second period Sergei Fedorov scored a goal. About four minutes later Sergei Gonchar got one for the Penguins, assisted by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. By the end of the period Washington was leading the game by three goals.
During the final minute of the second period Sidney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin got under each other's skin. Crosby pushed Ovechkin over the boards at the Capitals bench because the Russian just gave him a shoulder shove. Ovechkin grabbed Crosby in a near headlock forcing his helmet off. Referee Greg Devorski broke it up before things got out of hand. As Crosby clearly shouted at him, Ovechkin taunted him by waving goodbye.
So now the truth comes to light neither cares for the other much. Ovechkin says Crosby is a good player but talks too much. Meanwhile Crosby says while some like Ovechkin's theatrical antics, he doesn't. Crosby did go on to say he thinks Ovechkin is a good player.
Washington effectively shut down Crosby and Malkin, limiting them to 3 and 1 shot on goal respectively. This looks like the rivalry between the two teams and hockey stars has stepped up a notch. It will be interesting to see how it develops in the future.
Sidney Crosby Gets 250th Career Assist and Scores Game Winner Against Flyers in a 5-4 Victory for Pittsburgh
Saturday February 21, 2009
On the road in Philadelphia, in front of a Flyers' record regular season home crowd (19,992), the Pittsburgh Penguins win 5-4. Sidney Crosby scored two goals, including the game winner. His first goal came during the second period. Evgeni Malkin and Ruslan Fedotenko also scored during the second to make it a 3-1 game for the Penguins. Philadelphia's Joffrey Lupul scored the only goal during the first period.
During the third period Mike Richards scored a short handed goal for the Flyers, followed by one from Braydon Coburn to tie the game. Ruslan Fedotenko scored his second goal half way into the third period to give the Pens a one goal lead. But Mike Knuble tied it almost five minutes later.
With just under three minutes left in the game Pascal Dupuis was on the breakaway. Martin Biron moved out of the net towards him but failed to secure the puck. Dupuis managed to get the puck as biron was directing it to a team mate. He sent it towards the empty net where Sidney Crosby redirected it in for the game winning goal.
Overall, Sidney Crosby had two goals and two assists, Evgeni Malkin one goal and one assist, Ruslan Fedotenko two goals and one assist, Petr Sykora, Sergei Gonchar, Pascal Dupuis (2) also had assists.
Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game, followed by Ruslan Fedotenko second and Mike Richards third. Mike Richards becomes the first player to score short handed goals in three straight games since Joe Sakic did it back in 1998.
The Penguins will face Alexander Ovechkin and the Capitals tomorrow afternoon.
Summary of last few games
Saturday February 21, 2009
Sorry for not posting the last several games due to unforseen circumstances. I will be posting more details soon. For now here is a summary of scores.
Thurday February 19
Monday February 16
Saturday February 14
Webnesday February 11
Former Friends Turned Red Wings in Hossa and Conklin Help Shutdown Penguins 3-0
Sunday February 8, 2009
As you know last season the Stanley Cup final was a battle between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings. Only back then Ty Conklin was Pittsburgh's back up goalie to Marc Andre Fleury and fans were cheering a black and gold wearing Marian Hossa.
This time Hossa and Conklin were wearing red and white while playing for the Red Wings. As we all know Hossa turned down a lucrative contract with the Penguins for a lower paying one year deal with the Wings because he felt he had a better chance of winning the cup with them. Last season Pittsburgh fans loved him but this season he is hated. Hossa is even considered a traitor by most. So it wasn't surprising that Hossa was treated to intense booing all game long at Mellon Arena.
Unfortunately, his only response to the crowds boos was to score a goal during the third period. Pavel Datsyuk scored twice for the Red Wings, once during the second period, then again late in the third.
Despite the loss the Penguins did play a great game, things just didn't go their way. Redemption could be on the way though. On Wedneday the Penguins will face the mighty San Jose Sharks, who at this moment are even better than the Red Wings.
Sidney Crosby Gets a Goal and Two Assists as Penguins Defeat Blue Jackets 4-1
Friday February 6, 2009
The Penguins are looking good and pulled off back to back wins. Tonight they defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-1.
Sidney Crosby set up two goals scored by Kris Letang. The first came during the second period on the power play and it was the first goal of the game, Ryan Whitney also assisted on that one.
Petr Sykor scored Pittsburgh's second goal during the same period. He was assisted by Brooks Orpik and Evgeni Malkin.
Then Kris Letang got his second goal of the game, assisted by Crosby and Talbot, also during the second period. Two Columbus defenders were all over Crosby and he knew it. So Crosby brilliantly realized Letang was undefended. That's when Sidney Crosby made a sweet no look drop pass to Letang who buried the puck.
The Blue Jackets managed to get a goal during the third period, spoiling Marc Andre Fleury's shot at another shutout. The goal was scored by Fedor Tyutin on the power play while Malkin was off for hi sticking. Towards the end of the game Crosby scored a goal of his own on an empty net.
Kris Letang was named the first star of the game, Crosby second, and Fleury third.
Lets hope the Penguins keep clicking especially for their upcoming game this Sunday's NHL Game of the Week against the mighty Detroit Red Wings and former team mate Marian Hossa.
Evgeni The Machine Malkin's Anger Rallies Penguins out of Third Period 3-0 Deficit in a 4-3 Overtime Victory
Wednesday February 4, 2009
It seemed the Penguins were heading for their fourth straight loss in a row. You see, they were trailing 3-0 by the start of the third period against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Then just two and half minutes into the third period Evgeni Malkin scored a goal. This started an impressive rally for the Penguins. They seemed to tap into the amazing potential within the team looking like the well oiled machine everyone knows they are capable of being. Petr Sykora set up Mark Eaton for his second goal of the season. Then on the power play Petr Sykora was assisted by Malkin and Crosby for the goal that sent the game into overtime.
During overtime Jordan Staal stole the puck away from two Tampa Bay defenders and managed to get the puck in front of Malkin. Malkin took advantage of the set up and buried the puck into the net for a 4-3 overtime victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
This was one of the most impressive comebacks of the season for Pittsburgh. When asked by reporters what got him going, Evgeni Malkin replied he was angry and tired of losing. Lets hope Malkin gets pissed off more often.
Malkin was named the first star of the game, followed by Tampa's Vincent Lecavalier, and then Petr Sykora third.
A Goal for Evgeni Malkin and one for Rookie Luca Caputi in his NHL Debut but its not Enough as Canadiens Beat Penguins 4-2
Tuesday February 3, 2009
It seems the Penguins were skating a little slower than usual tonight, or maybe the Canadiens were skating a little faster than usual. Either way the Pittsburgh fell 4-2 to Montreal.
Rookie Luca Caputi scored just a couple minutes into the game, for his first NHL goal. This was his NHL debut too. What a exciting way to start your NHL career. The icing on the cake would have been a win for Pittsburgh.
Evgeni Malkin was the other Penguin to score. With the score at 3-1 to start the third period, Malkin got a goal cutting Montreal's lead to 1. Unfortunately, Montreal didn't allow any more goals and they got one more past Fleury.
Sidney Crosby was held pointless but he played well and was named the third star of the game.
Frantic Third Period Rally Not Enough for Penguins in a 5-4 Loss to the Maple Leafs
Saturday January 31, 2009
Goaltender Mathiew Garon made his debut with the Penguins in Toronto against the Maple Leafs. Garon was traded to the Penguins on January 16, 2009 from Edmonton for Dany Sabourin, Ryan Stone (minor-leauge winger), and a fourth round draft pick in 2011. Was it worth it? After all, Garon let in 5 of 26 shots and the Penguins lost the game.
To be fair this was his first game and its too early to tell. The Leafs did have home ice advantage, were pumped because it was Doug Gilmore night (in honor of their former captain), and well…. no one ever expects Toronto to win anyway.
The first period ended with a 1-1 tie with Ian White scoring for the Leafs and Miroslav Satan for the Penguins.
Then in the second period Nik Antropov scored a power play goal for Toronto. So did Alexei Ponikarovsky. The period ended with the Leafs up 3-1.
During the third period the Penguins rallied with Sidney Crosby getting a goal under a minute into the period (assists went to Evgeni Malkin and Matt Cooke). Less than two minutes later Matt Stajan answered for the Leafs making it 4-2. Evegein Malkin scored exactly three minutes later, assisted by Crosby and Whitney. Tyler Kennedy, assisted by Pascal Dupuis, scored another goal just over a minute after that. The Penguins had rallied to a 4-4 tie.
Unfortunately, veteran Jason Blake scored the game winner for the Leafs at the half way point of the third period.
Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin each picked up two points with a goal and assist each.
Toronto's rookie defenseman Luke Schenn delivered a big hit on Malkin, nicely set up Stajan on his third period goal, and wasn't afraid to drop the gloves when he fought Tyler Kennedy during the second period. Apparently, Schenn is a player to keep an eye on, which may be why he was matched up against Crosby and Malkin most of the game. The media has said Schenn displays the leadership qualities comparable to the legendary Doug Gilmore who was being honored this game. The rookie defender was named the first star of the game.
Stop and Read This:
Go Steelers Go!
NFL to Power Super Bowl XLIII on Renewable Energy?
Side note: As you know the Pittsburgh Steelers will battle the Arizona Cardinals at the NFL Super Bowl this Sunday. With all the bright lights, TV cameras, and jumbotron screens, can you guess how much energy will be required to power the event? A lot right? Did you know the NFL is using renewable energy to power the event in an attempt to reduce the environmental impact on the game? Truth is it I don't think it will do much good. Find out the full story here.
Sidney Crosby's Goal and Assist Wasn't Enough For Penguins in Devils Shocking 4-3 Overtime Win
Friday January 30, 2009
It looked like the Penguins would emerge victorious against the New Jersey Devils. The Penguins opened scoring during the first period with two goals twenty seconds apart. Maxime Talbot scored first, assisted by Ryan Whitney and Rob Scuderi, followed by Sidney Crosby, assisted by Evgeni Malkin and Petr Sykora.
Crosby's goal was set up by a nice pass from Evgeni Malkin. Crosby beat goalie Scott Clemmensen with a sweet backhander to the top of the net. The Penguins had a 2-0 lead but at 11:21 of the first Bobby Holik, assisted by Brendan Shanahan and Michael Rupp, got the Devils on the score board. The impressive part was Pittsburgh got their goals with just seven shots on net during the period. Meanwhile, the Devils only got one goal out of their 19 shots, thanks to the nice work of Marc Andre Fleury.
The second period remained scoreless. Then just under half way into the third period, Sidney Crosby sent a pass to Evgeni Malkin who got his 20th goal of the season and 100th of his career. Giving the Penguins a 3-1 lead.
Then things got close for the Penguins. You see, Peter Sykora was given a two minute penalty for hooking close to the tweleve minute point of the final period. Four seconds later Brendan Shanahan scored the power play goal for the Devils making 3-2. The Penguins lead was cut down to one. With victory near the final minute of the third period ticked away but the Devils' Jamie Langenbrunner got one in with only 31 seconds left sending the game into overtime.
Believe it or not Langenbrunner also scored the game winning goal for the Devils in overtime. And the Pittsburgh Penguins lost 4-3.
Jamie Langenbrunner was named the first star of the game, followed by Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby.
Crosby Gets a Goal and Three Assists as Penguins Swoop Rangers with a 5 Goal Third Period Victory
Wednesday January 28, 2009
In a third period explosion the Pittsburgh Penguins got five goals past Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers to win 6-2. Sidney Crosby had three assists and the final goal of the game, all in the third.
Crosby set up Petr Sykora's game winning goal on the power play at the midway point of the third period. Sykora had 2 goals, his first during the first period. Kris Letang also had two goals both during the third period. Jordan Staal notched a goal just a minute into the third. Jordan Staal, along with Chris Minard assisted on Sykora's first period goal. Malkin picked up an assist on Crosby's sweet backhanded goal near the end of the game.
Kris Letang was the first star of the game followed by Sidney Crosby and then Petr Sykora.
Nikolai Zherdev opened scoring early in the first period for the Rangers. By the end of the first period it was a 1-1 tie.
No one scored during the second period and both teams battled well.The Rangers did outshoot the Pens 18-8 that period but Fleury stopped them all.
As you already know the third period was all Pittsburgh, they outshot the Rangers this time 16-8. Marc Staal had a goal during the third for New York but it wasn't enough. Surprisingly, a goalie of Henrik Lundqvist's let quite a few goals get by in one period. Lundqvist played fabulously the first two periods, making some nice saves. All in all Lundqvist faced 34 shots. Meanwhile Marc Andre Fleury on the other end faced 33 shots, stopping all but two.
This was a sweet victory on home ice for the Penguins and a nice start to the second half of the season. As the playoff run approaches the Penguins must play their best if they hope to make it to the playoffs again this year.
Evgeni Malkin Cheered on at 2009 NHL All Star Game by Injured Sidney Crosby
Monday January 26, 2009
This years All Star Game was held in Montreal and the East beat the West in the shootout 12-11. Evgeni Malkin scored a goal during the second period and Sidney Crosby was there to cheer him on. Malkin also won the sharp shooting skills contest by hitting all four targets, then in a tie breaker with Dany Heatley hit 3 out of four to win.
As you probably know already Sidney Crosby missed the game due to an injured knee. Crosby received the most votes to start at the All Star Game in NHL history with 1,713,021 and Malkin had the second-highest total ever with 1,585,936.
The Penguins Beat Out by the Hurricanes 2-1
Tuesday January 20, 2009
The Pittsburgh Penguins came out strong in the first period with Evgeni Malkin scoring his 99th career goal just over two and a half minutes into the game. Sidney Crosby and Philipee Boucher assisted on the play. That was the only shot that got past Carolina goalie Cam Ward out of 33.
On the other end goalie Marc Andre Fleury of the Penguins played an excellent game as well stopping 38 out of 40 shots. Unfortunately, later in the first period Carolina's Ray Whitney got a puck past Fleury. In the second period Eric Staal put another one past the Pittsburgh net minder for the game winner.
Eric Staal was named the first star of the game, Cam Ward second, and Evgeni Malkin third.
Sidney Crosby Returns and Marc Andre Fleury Gets the Shut Out as the Penguins Blank the Rangers 3-0
Sunday January 18, 2009
For the first time in two months the Pittsburgh Penguins won two games in a row. What makes this significant is that it was against the mighty New York Rangers whose stellar goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist, is nearly impossible to beat. Even Sidney Crosby, who returned after missing a game from his knee injury, wasn't able to get the puck past Lundqvist during the second period penalty shot he was awarded after being tripped from behind. Furthermore, Lundqvist is supported by an incredible defensive and offensive line up including the likes of Marcus Naslund and Chris Drury.
However, the stars aligned for the Penguins today not the Rangers. Of course factors like the Rangers finishing their longest road trip of the season and Pittsburgh giving one of its most intense efforts in quite some time came into play. The effort paid off and the Penguins beat the Rangers 3-0 on Sunday at Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh.
Marc Andre Fleury put on another spectacular performance, stopping 33 shots, earning his second shutout of the season. Chris Minard, recently recalled from the minors notched his first goal of the season during the first period with a nice set up by Petr Sykora (Hal Gill was also credited with an assist). Tyler Kenedy scored the next goal of the first assisted by Rob Scuderi and Miroslav Satan. Then in the second period Petr Sykora rushed up the ice after picking up a nice pass from Ryan Whitney (also assisted by Jordan Staal) to put in a power play goal making it a 3-0 hockey game.
Evgeni Malkin (69 points, 51 assists) and Sidney Crosby (59 points, 42 assists) didn't pick up any points today but still lead the NHL in scoring and total assists remaining first and second overall. While Crosby didn't notch a point it was a relief to see him back in action after missing a full game due to injury. Rob Scuderi and Kris Letang also returned from injury playing this game.
Marc Andre Fleury was named the first star of the game, followed by Petr Sykora second and Chris Minard third.
Other notes: Mike Zigomanis will be out of the Penguins line up for the rest of the season after undergoing shoulder surgery. Back up goalie Dany Sabourin was traded yesterday to the Edmonton Oilers for Mathieu Garon. Chris Minard's lucky number must be 14. You see Minard got his first goal of the season, a big one at that, after changing from number 32 to 14 yesterday to accommodate new back up goalie Mathieu Garon.
The Pittsburgh Penguins Get a 3-1 Win Over the Anaheim Ducks with Two 2 Matt Cooke Goals 43 Seconds Apart
Friday January 16, 2009
Despite several of the Penguins' injured players missing this game, including captain Sidney Crosby, they managed to beat the Anaheim Ducks with a great show by Matt Cooke. You see Matt Cooke scored two goals in a 43 second time span, one at the end of the first period (assisted by Evgeni Malkin and Hal Gil) and one at the start of the second period (assisted by Malkin and Ryan Whitney). That's not all Marc Andre Fleury stopped all but one of the 22 shots he faced in another excellent performance. And you're never going to believe this… you know big bad defender Hal Gil? Well he got a goal (the first of the season for him)! Jordan Staal set up that one after winning a faceoff and firing the puck over Gil who fired off a slap shot that zoomed right past Ducks goalie Sebastien Giguere.
Ryan Getzlaf got the lone goal for the Ducks.
Evgeni Malkin got two assists bringing his NHL scoring lead to 69.
Captain Sidney Crosby sat out his first game after injuring his left knee in a game against the Washington Capitals.
The Penguins can also add Brooks Orpik to their long list of injured players. Orpik left the game during the first period with what is being called an upper body injury (most likely the arm or ribs). This now makes four out of ten Penguin defenders out of action due to injury. Besides Orpik, the other injured defenders are Kris Letang, Rob Scuderi and Sergei Gonchar. Also out of action due to injury are Sidney Crosby, Max Talbot, Pascal Dupuis, Ruslan Fedotenko, and Mike Zigomanis.
On Sunday the Penguins will face the New York Rangers at Mellon Arena, with so many regulars out of the line up, Pittsburgh will truly be put to the test.
Sidney Crosby's Injured Left Knee Not Serious
Thursday January 15, 2009
After colliding with David Steckel during a power play against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night Sidney Crosby limped off of the ice. He sat on the bench for a short time but couldn't return to the game and left for the locker room.
It will be exactly one year this Sunday since Sidney Crosby suffered a high ankle sprain that kept him out of the line up for an extended period last season.
An MRI today revealed the injury to his knee is not serious and there is only minor swelling. Crosby will be assessed tomorrow to see if he will be able to play in Pittsburgh's game against Anaheim.
Sidney Crosby Got Two Assists and Left the Game during the Third Period as Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals Defeated the Penguins 6-3
Wednesday January 14, 2009
Tonight the Penguins faced off against the Capitals bringing the NHL's top scoring leaders together under one roof. Evgeni Malkin leads the league with 67 points, Crosby is next with 59, and right behind him is Alexander Ovechkin with 57. All three notched points in tonight's game.
Evgeni Malkin with a nice power play goal at 5:45 of the first period got one point. Sidney Crosby picked up two points with an assist on Malkin's goal and another when he set up Ryan Whitney's goal tying the game at 3-3 early during the third period. Just before that goal Ovechkin scored a goal for his first point. Oveckin also picked up points with an assist and another goal during the third making the game 5-3 for Washington. Washington's Jeff Shultz sealed the deal for the Capital's with a late empty net goal for a final score of 6-3.
Not only did the Penguins lose the game, they also lost Sidney Crosby, who limped off the ice, late in the third period after he collided with David Steckel during a power play. Shortly after Crosby went to the locker room and no word about his condition has surfaced yet (news reports have hinted it may be his left knee). Maxime Talbot and Rob Scuderi were also lost to injury this game.
The Penguins looked great during the first period and were in total control. During the second period the teams seemed evenly matched. However, Ovechkin and the Capitals dominated during the third period. This is when Ovechkin picked up all three of his points. Not surprisingly, Ovechkin was named the first star of the game, followed by team mate Nicklas Backstrom second, and Sidney Crosby third.
As you remember from the last time these two teams met Alexander Ovechkin went out of his way to land several hits on Evgeni Malkin. Tonight it seems Malkin was looking to deliver a payback. Malkin nailed Oveckin twice during the first period once with a big hit along the boards and later cross checking him from behind. Malkin received a two minute penalty on that one. Ovechkin delivered a hit on Crosby during the second period with Matt Cooke retaliating by giving Oveckin a taste of his shoulder. Cooke Was penalized 2 minutes for interference.
Interestingly, sniper Alexander Ovechkin recorded an impressive 10 shots this game but believe it or not Evgeni Malkin beat him by notching 12 shots.
Unfortunately, the sell out crowd at Mellon Arena didn't see their home team win… Again!
In Another Battle of Pennsylvania the Penguins Snapped the Flyers' Home Winning Streak with a Stellar 4-2 Victory
Tuesday January 13, 2009
"It's been a long time that we've played such a solid game" Penguins Coach Michel Therrien
True the Penguins played an excellent game taking the first five shots of the first period. However, before the first period was half way over and then later on during the third period Pittsburgh fans had reason to worry that another loss was on the way.
Let me explain. Goalie Marc Andre Fleury screwed up during the first period when he was out of position and the Flyers capitalized to get the first goal of the game. You see the puck bounced off of Fleury's stick, went behind the net then deflected to Flyer Mike Knuble in front of the wide open net.
Knuble easily got the first goal of the game. So you might think that Fleury would have to be pulled before the end of the game if this keeps up. The thing is Marc Andre Fleury bounced right back showcasing his elite goal tending talents the rest of the night. This was his 200th NHL career game and he officially becomes the fourth goalie in Penguins franchise history to reach this milestone.
From Fleury's first period "hiccup" and all through the second period Pittsburgh played a fabulous offensive and defensive game. In fact, the effectively shut down the Philadephia Flyers' gifted offense and the next four goals of the game all came from the Penguins.
Let me tell you what went down as far as scoring goes. First Tyler Kenedy, assisted by Mazime Talbot and Paul Bissonnette, got Pittsburgh's first goal during late in the first period. The second period was all Pittsburgh starting early with a Sidney Crosby assisting Evgeni Malkin not even two minutes in. Jordan Staal got a nice bankhander assisted by Miroslav Satan and Kristopher Letang. Then with less than half a minute left in the second period, Crosby got his second assist of the game on Matt Cooke's goal (also assisted by Brooks Orpik). So there you have it was a 4-1 game by the end of the second.
Now you may have noticed this season the Penguins tend to have a history of blowing game leads during the third period. So When Joffrey Lupul scored eight minutes into the third period giving Philadelphia another point Pittsburgh fans must have started bitting their nails. After all the Flyers are no slouches.
Despite Flyer fans booing the Penguins, mainly Sidney Crosby, every chance they had, Pittsburgh managed to beat their interstate rivals 4-2. Things came together well as Pittsburgh won another battle for Pennsylvania.
Check out this video showcasing the goals during the Penguins vs Flyers battle of Pennsylvania on January 14, 2009.
In a 5-3 Loss to the Colorado Avalanche Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin Each Picked Up Two Points With an Assist and a Goal
Saturday January 10, 2009
Tonight Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were reunited on the same line each setting the other up for a goal. Late in the first period Crosby set up Malkin for a sweet power play goal making it a 1-1 game.
During the second period Colorados' David Jones notched a goal early in giving the Avalanche a one goal advantage over the Penguins. Sidney Crosby responded after being set up by Evgeni Malkin (also assisted by Brooks Orpik) making it a 2-2 game. This was Crosby's team leading seventeenth goal of the season. By the end of the second period Wojtek Wolski and Cody McLeod scored a goal each for the Avalanche giving Colorado the lead by 2.
During the third period Pittsburgh goalie Dany Sabourin was pulled in favor of Marc Andre Fleury. Jordan Staal pulled off an unassisted short handed goal cutting Colorado's lead down to 1. Not even a minute later David Jones got his second goal of the game helping the Avalanche pull ahead by two again. This was the final goal of the game and Colorado beat Pittsburgh 5-3.
Evgeni Malkin extended extend his NHL lead in points to 65 with his 49 assists being the best in the league. Sidney Crosby is second in the league with 55 points and he is tied for second in assists with 38. Crosby was named the third star of the game.
The Pittsburgh Penguins Fall 5-3 to Nashville Preditors Crosby Gets Two Assists
Thursday January 8, 2009
Tonight Sidney Crosby was named the third star of the game, Nashvilles' Martin Erat and David Legwant were first and second.
Crosby set up Petr Sykora's snap shot goal during the first period. The second goal for Pittsburgh came early in the second period when Crosby lost a faceoff but started a 3 on 2 rush up the ice after blocking a shot. Crosby then passed to Tyler Kenedy and set a pick in front of the net for Jordan Staal. Staal sent a nice backhander into the net. 21 seconds later Matt Cooke set up Maxime Talbot for his fifth goal of the season making it a 3-0 game.
Then something happened that may not surprise you. Pittsburgh blew their lead when Nashville scored three goals by the end of the second period.
During the third period Nashville struck twice more with a power play goal by Ryan Suter and a late game empty net goal by defender Greg Zanon. Final score 5-3 Nashville over Pittsburgh.
Notable News: Jordan Staal was in his final year of his entry level contract but today Pittsburgh has resigned him for another 4 years. Staal is happy about the deal and so are the Penguins.
Pittsburgh Penguins Dump The Slump With a 3-1 Victory Over the Atlanta Thrashers
Tuesday January 6, 2009
Mark my words the Pittsburgh Penguins slump is over! Tonight the Penguins played like the championship team they are snapping a 5 game slump by beating the Thrashers. Sidney Crosby got his first power play goal in 26 games and scored for the first time in his last four games. Meanwhile Evgeni Malkin who only got 2 points in his last seven games prior to this one managed to set up every goal tonight giving him three points to add to his NHL scoring lead (63 points). Petr Sykor scored twice and Sidney Crosby once.
During the first period the Penguins outshot the Thrashers 14-5 but only managed one goal. Their other goals both came during the second period. During the third period Atlanta outshot Pittsburgh 14-7 getting one goal. It seems the third period is when Atlanta put out its best effort but thanks to the brilliant play of Marc Andre Fleury they couldn't pull off a win. Fleury stopped 27 shots.
If you remember back to last season, the Penguins traded Colby Armstrong along with Erik Christensen to Atlanta. Armstrong is one of Crosby's best buddies but it seems on the ice there is only war. In fact, just under two minutes into the game Ruslan Fedontenko knocked Armstrong down with one punch to the chin during a fight. Fedontenko didn't return to the game apparently from a hand injury.
Check out this video of the Ruslan Fedontenko vs Colby Armstrong fight.
Another note is that Pittsburgh finally broke their lousy 7 game, 0-32 power play slump with two power play goals tonight, one by Petr Sykora first and the other by Sidney Crosby.
Penguins Petr Sykora was the first star of the game, followed by Evgeni Malkin second, and Marc Andre Fleury third.
Pittsburgh's Slump Continues Thanks to a Shutout by Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers
Monday January 5, 2009
Let's face it the Penguins are in a depressing slump which has been extended to 5 straight loses thanks to a 4-0 loss against the Rangers tonight. In fact, this was Lundqvist's first shutout of the season and his twentieth win, making him the fifth NHL goalie to start a career with four 20-win seasons. This is a great milestone for Henrik Lundvist emphasizing his excellent goaltending skills. But enough about Lundvist and the Rangers let me get back to the purpose of Sidney Crosby Spotlight… The Pittsburgh Penguins with a focus on Crosby.
During the first period Sidney Crosby was knocked down by Rangers defender Michal Rozival as his shot was stopped by Lundvist. Then late in the second period, while right in front of the net, Crosby was denied again. In frustration Crosby smacked his stick against the glass and the crowd in New York booed him. In fact, fans at Madison Square Gardens booed him all night long. Crosby has now been held pointless for three games straight.
The Penguins failed to capitalize on all eight of their power play opportunities tonight. In fact, during the first period on a 5-3 advantage for two minutes (shy one second) they only generated one shot on net. During the second period only two seconds into a power play Crosby was called for hooking ruining another advantage the Penguins had.
Meanwhile, Crosby's counterpart Evgeni Malkin was unable to get a point tonight either. Despite a commanding lead in both league points and assists this season he has only managed two assists in the last seven games. Tonight Malkin had one of the best opportunities of the night to score for Pittsburgh. He rushed up the ice with Petr Sykor during the second period, without a Ranger anywhere around. Malkin fired off a nice shot but this is when Lundvist made his best save of the night.
Despite the Penguins slump Crosby played hard tonight taking several shots and setting up his team mates. With the talent Pittsburgh has a win is coming soon that will surely boost moral and hopefully turn their fortunes around. There is no need to panic yet… right?
Sidney Crosby Gets Into His Second NHL Career Fight as Penguins Lose To Panthers 6-1
Saturday January 3, 2009
There's not much to say here, the Penguins lost again but this time badly on home ice (Mellon Arena) against the Florida Panthers 6-1.
This Sidney Crosby vs Brett McLean fight is very controversial that's for sure! Crosby said he challenged McLean who agreed to fight. McLean said he didn't even understand what Crosby said. Next thing you know the puck drops and so does McLean.
Did Crosby pull a cheap shot? Is he lying? Why didn't he give McLean a chance to drop his gloves? Was Crosby just frustrated and angry? Maybe Crosby is just an inexperienced fighter which explains his ungentlemanly approach to this beating.
Perhaps McLean knew what was coming and set Crosby up. Playing possum making it look like he was jumped. If that's the case McLean is brilliant because he was able to get Crosby off the ice for 20 minutes making life that much easier for the Panthers during the game. Maybe McLean really didn't understand Crosby and its all a big miscommunication.
So who do you believe Crosby or McLean? Who is the bad guy? Who is the liar? Who is right and who is wrong? Was it a miscommunication?
Who cares!
Its all being blown out of proportion because Sidney Crosby is guilty of being a phenomenal player and the face of the NHL.
For an insightful look into the incident check out PensBurgh Blog's post here.
Not a Happy New Year For the Pittsburgh Penguins as the Boston Bruins Win 4-2
Thursday January 1, 2009
Despite coming out strong and scoring fast the Penguins were unable to defeat the Boston Bruins on new years day. Penguins rookie Dustin Jeffrey got the first goal of the game and of his NHL career just under three minutes into the game. The Penguins played hard and outshot Boston during the first period but goalie Manny Fernandez did a spectacular job of stopping the puck. Boston also neutralized Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, only allowing Malkin one assist and Crosby not one point.
Ruslan Fedotenko got the second goal for Pittsburgh during the third period, assisted by Malkin, but that's as far as Pittsburgh got. In the end Boston won its tenth game in a row with a score of 4-2.
Bruins Momentum Too Much For Penguins As Boston Wins its Ninth Game in a Row with a 5-2 Victory Over Pittsburgh
Tuesday December 30, 2008
The Boston Bruins are on a roll winning their ninth game in a row. The Penguins played an admirable game but goalie Tim Tomas frustrated them stopping 32 of 34 shots. In fact, he stopped Sidney Crosby stone cold after a fabulous set up from Evgeni Malkin.
The Bruins also managed to outshoot the Penguins 40-34. What led to the downfall of the Penguins tonight was Boston's lethal power play unit which was on the offense 10 times tonight. If it wasn't for the play of goalie Marc Andre Fleury and several key saves the score could have been much worse.
Sidney Crosby Set Up a Goal and Scored One of His Own In Pittsburgh's First Encounter With Montreal This Season
Saturday December 27, 2008
The Pittsburgh Penguins put in a winning effort in their first match up against the Montreal Canadiens this season but were denied with much credit going to goalie Carey Price. Indeed, Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis each scored a goal (Crosby assisted on Dupuis' goal) for the Penguins. Despite having a game high nine shots league scoring leader Evgeni Malkin was unable to penetrate Montreal goaltender Carey Price. In fact, Malkin was unable to pick up a single point for only the sixth time (out of 36 games) this season.
Meanwhile Canadien Andrei Kostitsyn returned to the line up after missing two games due to a leg injury. Kostitsyn got all three goals for Montreal giving him his first ever NHL hat trick.
It turns out the Penguins battled hard during the third period taking 17 shots as they tried to get a game tying goal. Even with Crosby and Malkin on the ice making superb plays, and three power play opportunities, Carey Price's outstanding goaltending left them unable to score. During the last few minutes of the game, during the power play, Evgeni Malkin fired the puck twice, once off of a perfect feed from Crosby, but Price made big saves on both shots.
The final score 3-2 Montreal over Pittsburgh.
Truthfully, Pittsburgh put in a solid effort tonight and while the game didn't end in their favor, if they continue to play this way they will surely win more games in the future.
Don Cherry Reveals How Sidney Crosby Can Play Better?
While Sidney Crosby seems to work his butt off every game, Don Cherry may have a valid point in saying he could be playing much better. According to Cherry, Sidney Crosby is much like Bobby Orr. Both had tremendous pressure to tend to the media and fans (off ice duties) that are probably hampering top notch performance on the ice. Don Cherry made these comments recently on Coach's Corner.
Watch Don Cherry talk about Sidney Crosby's playing slump, and how he compares it to Bobby Orr's situation in the 1970's starting about a minute and a half into the video below
Marc Andre Fleury Gets His First Shutout of the Season To Defeat the Devils 1-0
Friday December 26, 2008
Indeed Marc Andre Fleury led the Penguins to their first shutout of the season after stopping all 37 of New Jersey's shots defeating them 1-0. You see Fleury made several big saves, making Ruslan Fedotenko's lone goal of the game during the second period enough for the Pittsburgh Penguins to claim victory over the New Jeresey Devils.
Evgeni Malkin assisted on Fedotenko's goal adding another point to his NHL leading point total (now at 59 points). Malkin and Crosby did not play on the same line this game. Sidney Crosby was held pointless and failed to shot for the second game in a row, the fifth this season, and 13th of his NHL career. Crosby has held second place in league points this season right behind Malkin for quite some time. However, Alexander Ovechkin's game winning goal against the Sabres tonight was enough for him to jump next to Crosby tying for second.
Make no mistake that Sidney Crosby's lack of points lately won't last too long. After all, he didn't get to the top of the scoring race by luck and neither did Ovechkin. That's why watching Ovechkin vs Crosby in the points race this season will be quite interesting, especially since they are so close right now. These two will surely break some records as they progress through their NHL careers.
Sidney Crosby NHL All Star Game Record Breaker
Speaking of breaking records Sidney Crosby can add another one to his list. You see, last Sunday he surpassed the record for most fan votes ever received by a player for the NHL All Star Game. As you probably remember, Jaromir Jagr set the record at 1,020,736 votes back in 2000 while playing for the Penguins. Last year Crosby led all players earning the most votes for the 2008 NHL All Star Game with nearly 200,000 more than any other player. The year before that Sidney Crosby made history becoming the youngest player ever voted to start in an NHL All Star Game. Evgeni Malkin is not far behind and should also beat Jagr's record by the time voting ends on January 2nd, 2009. As of December 25th Crosby had 1,103,381, and Malkin 993,898 votes.
The Penguins Slack as the Lightning Attack
Tuesday December 23, 2008
Astonishing isn't it? The Penguins put Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby together on the same line right from the first shift of the game against Tampa Bay, the league's second worst team, only to lose 2-0. And just think, most other times Crosby and Malkin on the same line usually results in Penguin goals, even against much higher rank opponents. Seriously, The Penguins played like a bunch of slackers, blew several chances, were out shot 29-15, and got beat.
Heck Sidney Crosby didn't even get one shot on net and Evgeni Malkin was held pointless for the first time in ten games (ending his point streak at 9 games).
Sidney Crosby Gets The Overtime Game Winning Goal as Penguins Defeat Sabres 4-3
Monday December 22, 2008
After not scoring a goal in nine games (a career high) Sidney Crosby managed to get one tonight. In fact, Crosby got the game winning goal just 43 seconds into overtime leading the Pittsburgh Penguins to a 4-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres.
Believe it or not Mediocre Maple Leafs Pound Penguins 7-3
Saturday December 20, 2008
Here's the story: The Toronto Maple Leafs, with all due respect, have been pathetic in recent years (including this season), yet they faced one of the top NHL teams (Pittsburgh Penguins) graced by several super skilled players. In fact, Sidney Crosby (46 points) and Evgeni Malkin (55 points) lead in league scoring this season and indisputably are two of the best playmakers the league has ever witnessed.
That's not all because in recent years the Maple Leafs have simply sucked on Penguins' home ice at the Igloo/Mellon arena.
Even worse Toronto embarrassed the Penguins by scoring 7 goals and only allowing 3 to give the Leafs their biggest winning margin so far in the 2008-09 NHL season.
So that's why you must be asking why and how did the Pittsburgh Penguins get demolished by the Leafs of all teams in tonight's game?
No doubt about it Toronto dominated the game in every area. They seemed quicker, seemed more aggressive on the fore check, seemed to win the face offs, and seemed to battle harder in the corners and along the boards. Overall, Pittsburgh was outshot badly too (40-23) especially during the first two periods.
Toronto took advantage of every opportunity/mistake the Penguins presented. To make a point look at what happened almost half way into the second period.
You see Evgeni Malkin gave Toronto's Niklas Hagman an early Christmas gift when he attempted to rush the puck up the ice. As Malkin cut in front of the Pittsburgh net, he put the puck directly onto Hagman's hockey stick, who in turn stunned goalie Marc Andre Fleury by suddenly scoring on him. No doubt about it that this was one of the best opportunities Pittsburgh gave Toronto but…
Worst of all, for the Penguins, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were effectively neutralized by Toronto's physical play. In fact, only Malkin had one shinning moment when scoring during the first period tying the game 1-1.
Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette summarized it best when he reported, "Malkin took a lead pass from Eaton, beat Toronto defenseman Jaime Sifers wide, then cut to the net and put a backhander by goalie Vesa Toskala, a highlights-tape goal on a night when all other video evidence of the game should have been shredded."
The goal added a point to Malkin's scoring tally and he also picked up another point assisting on Petr Sykora's goal during the third period. Sidney Crosby was held completely scoreless. Bottom line is the dynamic duo of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were completely shut down.
Marc Andre Fleury was pulled and replace by Dany Sabourin in goal by the third period. Obviously, Fleury's play was unacceptable but neither were the rest of the players on the team. No wonder news sources are reporting the Penguins are saying they are embarrassed. You know what? The Penguins should be embarrassed… now get over it guys and shape up for the next game Monday December 22 against the Buffalo Sabres.
Marc Andre Fleury Returns to Help Penguins Defeat Thrashers 6-3
Saturday December 18, 2008
Tonight Marc Andre Fleury returned after being absent due to injury putting on a spectacular performance. Fleury stopped 28 of 31 shots. Despite being outshot 31-19 the Penguins offense was able to manage 6 goals to win the game 6-3.
Evgeni Malkin had two goals and two assists bringing his game point streak to seven. Overall Malkin has picked up 14 points during this streak and leads the league with 53 points. He scored Pittsburgh's second goal of the game during the first period, assisted by Petr Sykora. Matt Cooke got the first goal for the Penguins. Late in the fist Marty Reasoner got the first goal of the game for the Thrashers while he was scrapping with Brooks Orpik.
You see Reasoner slid into the back of Orpik's leg who was not impressed. This started the fight. Ilya Kovalchuk's shot deflected off of Reasoner and past Fleury for the goal while he fought Orpik. This led to a line brawl broking out. Some reports say Brooks Orpik jumped Reasoner, while others claim Crosby cross checked him into Orpik. Nevertheless, a whole wack of players were all scrummed together. Kris Letang had pulled Boris Valabik from the scrum and they went at it. It seems by the end of it Crosby lost his cool and began punching Boris Valabik from behind while he was already fighting with Kris Letang. Check out the very biased video (Crosby haters had a field day with this one but if you watch closely you can see Crosby hardly landed a noticable blow).
Anyway, Crosby got a roughing penalty that carried over into the second period. Crosby joined Orpik and Reasoner in the penalty box.
During the second period, just three and a half minutes in Jordan Stall got a power play goal with assists coming from Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby. Miroslav Satan got a power play goal less than three minutes after that, assisted by Jeff Taffe and Ruslan Fedotenko. Bryan Little scored a power play goal for Atlanta less than two minutes later. Pittsburgh's Philippe Boucher assisted by Malkin and Sykor got the final goal of the second period which ended at 5-2 for the Penguins.
The Penguins were able to hold the lead all game including during the third period. Former Penguin and buddy of Crosby, Colby Armstrong got an unassisted goal for the Thrashers. In the dying seconds of the third period Sidney Crosby and Rob Scuderi assisted Malkin on an empty netter making the final score 6-3 for the Pens.
Fans at the Wachovia Center Chanted Crosby Sucks as The Pittsburgh Penguins Fell to The Philadelphia Flyers 6-3 in Today's Battle of Pennsylvania
Saturday December 13, 2008
As you probably know whenever Sidney Crosby plays at the Wachovia Center Flyer's fans love to chant "Crosby sucks". Now, of course, this normally seems to spark Sidney Crosby to play better than ever. Sadly, tonight Crosby was shut down as the Flyer's outplayed the Penguins to win the game 6-3.
Believe it or not Eric Godard hasn't scored a goal in 99 games, until today where he got Pittsburgh's second goal of the game. When you think about it the Flyers should be quite embarassed about that.
Evgeni Malkin was able to extend his game point streak to six games for assisting on Godard's goal. Malkin continues to lead the league in points with 49 (12 goals, 37 assists).
Petr Sykora and Pascal Dupuis Each With a Hat Trick Help Penguins Demolish Islanders 9-3 Snapping Their 3 Game Losing Streak
Thursday December 11, 2008
The Pittsburgh Penguins had their first nine goal game since their 9-4 victory over the Flyers on February 7th, 2001. Tonight Pascal Dupuis of the Penguins got a hat trick and so did Petr Sykora. This was Petr Sykora's first career NHL hat trick. Sidney Crosby set up three goals. Evgeni Malkin hot a goal and an assist. Philippe Boucher got his first NHL goal this season and Miroslav Satan was also the other scorer for the Penguins.
The Islanders got goals from mark Streit, assisted by Doug Weight and Trent Hunter, and one goal by Andy Sutton (his first of the season) assisted by Joshua Bailey and Richard Park.
The last time two Penguins had hat tricks during the same game was back on April 9, 1993 when Mario Lemieux and Joey Mullen pulled it off while playing the Rangers.
Rookie goalie John Curry was in net for the Penguins, this was his third career NHL game and second time winning. Both of his wins were against the Islanders.
Check out this video of Petr Sykora's first career hat trick.
And here is Pasqual Dupuis' hat trick on video.
Sidney Crosby's Game Point Streak Ends at Seven as Penguins Fall to Devils 4-1
Wednesday December 10, 2008
Despite another solid effort by the Penguins they fell to the Devils 4-1. Sidney Crosby even managed to take nine shots but all were blocked including two on goal. Evgeni Malkin was limited to three shots but did manage to assist Matt Cooke in a late game goal. With the Penguins down 3-1, goalie Dany Sabourin was pulled from net in the final minute in hopes of a comeback. Unfortunately, things didn't work out that way and Patrick Elais scored for New Jersey for a final score of 4-1.
The Penguins are now tied with the Flyers for second overall in the Atlantic division with 34 points each. The Rangers are in first with 40 points.
Sidney Crosby's Game Point Streak Extended to Seven but Penguins Blow a 3-1 Lead as Thomas Vanek Gets Game Winning Goal in Buffalo's 4-3 Victory
Monday December 8, 2008
First of all just a minute and a half into the second period Sidney Crosby set up Kris Letang for the goal while on a 5-3 power play. Listen my friend, this was a nice conversion on the power play by Pittsburgh's captain and Letang (his first goal of the season). The assist was enough to give Crosby the point he need this game to extend his game point streak to seven games.
This early second period goal gave the Penguins a nice 3-1 lead. As you know Pittsburgh hasn't been very successful on the power play. Tonight Letang's goal was the only one out of eight power play chances, three of which were 5-3 man advantages. Frankly, that stinks but to be fair the Penguins did play hard and the Sabres' solid penalty killing effort paid off. Worst of all for Pittsburgh, the dynamic duo of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were not able to capitalize on a 2 minute, 2 man advantage during the second period. Buffalo definitely deserves credit for killing off that penalty. This seemed to be a turning point during the game.
It seems right after the Penguins managed their 3-1 lead things went downhill. This time though they can't be faulted for not trying as they did put in a solid effort this game. By the end of the second period the game was tied 3-3. The lone goal of the third period was Thomas Vanek's game winner, which also turned out to be his 20th of the season putting him first overall in NHL goals scored this season so far.
Evgeni Malkin picked up two more points, as did Petr Sykora, on Pittsburgh's first two goals during the first period. Ruslan Fedotenko got both of these goals. Malkin continues to lead the league in points now with 45.
Overall, this was an exciting game with great offense and excellent goal tending by both teams. Either team deserved to win but there can only be one winner and Buffalo edged out Pittsburgh.
Despite Sidney Crosby Extending His Game Point Streak to Six Games The Penguins Fell to The Senators 3-2 Thanks To Jason Spezza's Second Career Hat Trick
Saturday December 6, 2008
My strong hunch is the Penguins could have played with a little more effort this game especially during the first two periods. While no one scored during the first period there was a lot of goals and a fight worth watching.
Unfortunately, the scoring was in Ottawa's favor as Jason Spezza pulled off his second career hat trick during this period. Jordan Staal managed a power play goal, assisted by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, to make it a 2-1 game.
As you know by the end of the second it was 3-1 thanks to Spezza. Oh and that fight, it was between Pittsburgh's tough guy Eric Godard and Ottawa's Chris Neil, both recived 5 minute fighting major penalties.
Evgeni Malkin notched the final goal of the game during the third period, assisted by Jordan Staal. A few minutes before this goal, Sidney Crosby was given a 2 minute penalty for slashing Dany Heatley. Apparently, both Heatley and Crosby were no where near the puck but Heatley delivered a high check to Crosby. In return, Crosby took a hard wack at Heatley's lower leg.
Crosby picked up a point this game extending his game point scoring streak to six games. Evgeni Malkin got two points keeping him at the top of the league's scoring race, ahead of Crosby by three points.
Four Points for Sidney Crosby in a 5-2 Penguins Road Game Win Over The Hurricanes
Thursday December 4, 2008
Well, this time, Sidney Crosby set up four goals, to spoil Paul Maurice's debut coaching stint (for the second time) with the Hurricanes in a 5-2 Pittsburgh victory. Petr Sykora notched 2 goals this game too. Likewise, Evgeni Malkin picked up two points (on assists) to take his NHL leading scoring total to 41 points.
Make no mistake: Sidney Crosby (39 points) may not be the scoring leader but he is kicking butt. Quite simply, Crosby is on a hot five game point streak with 14 points (6 goals and 8 assists) trailing just behind Malkin by two points for the NHL scoring lead.
Let's face it these two are the league's hottest player combination, not in just points alone. By the way, it looks like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin will most likely finish the season as the top two scoring leaders.
Just for the record, the last time two team mates finished first and second in overall scoring was back in 1995-96. And you know what? It turns out they were also Pittsburgh Penguins, namely Mario Lemieux and Jaromir Jagr. Prior to that this happened in 1991-92 when Mario Lemieux and Kevin Stevens (Penguins again) ranked first and second in the league.
But let me get back to the hockey game against the Hurricanes. During the first period Petr Sykor got the first goal on the power play, assisted by Crosby and Goligoski, just past the halfway mark. Less than a minute and a half later Crosby assisted Pascal Dupuis on his third goal of the season. In the second period Sidney Crosby assisted on two more goals by Petr Sykora (game winning goal) and Miroslav Satan. For the final goal of the second period and of the game, Evgeni Malkin assisted Ruslan Fedotenko. Carolina got their two goals during the second period from Tuomo Ruutu and Matt Cullen.
Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game, followed by Petr Sykora, then Dany Sabourin (34 saves this game).
The Rangers Get Physical With Sidney Crosby Limiting Him to One Assist as Pittsburgh Falls 3-2 in the Shoot Out
Wednesday December 3, 2008
Seems during the first period Rangers' tough guy Colton Orr was set on banging up Sidney Crosby every chance he had. In fact, not even three minutes into the game Mike Godard was not impressed with the attacks on Crosby so he dropped the gloves and fought Orr. Throughout the period Orr continued to hound Crosby but Pittsburgh's captain wasn't afraid to stand his ground and could be seen poking Orr with his stick. Eventually, Brooks Orpik nailed Orr from behind and then tripped him. Orpik received two penalties for his actions.
While Orpik was in the penalty box the Rangers were called for too many men on the ice setting up a 4-4 player game. NHL scoring leaders Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin were the focus of the Rangers' attention. Of course that's when Crosby set up a beautiful goal. As Sidney Crosby took possession of the puck, he swung around behind New York's net drawing the attention of Henrik Lundvist and a couple of Rangers. While they were all over him, Crosby sent the puck across the crease right to Mark Eaton who got the goal.
By mid second period Rob Scuderi fired a shot which was deflected past Lundqvist by Jordan Staal for the goal that put Pittsburgh ahead 2-0. Unfortunately, a minute and a half later the New York Rangers got a similar goal as Scott Gomez's wicked shot was deflected into Pittsburgh's net by Nikolai Zherdev.
During the third period the Ranger's rallied hard and Dany Sabourin made several key saves but Ranger Petr Prucha managed to get one past him tying the game and sending it into overtime.
During overtime Rangers defender Marc Staal (brother of Pittsburgh's Jordan Staal) managed to nail Sidney Crosby sending him to the ice. Apparently, Staal hit him while Crosby's feet left the ice as he tried to hop out of a tight jam. That's when he was knocked down to the ice by Staal. Fans at Madison Square Gardens roared with delight as this was replayed on their video board several times.
Eventually the game went to the shoot out where the Rangers got the win.
Sidney Crosby's First Hat Trick on Home Ice at Mellon Arena Brings The Penguins Victory Over The Devils 4-1
Saturday November 29, 2008
The hats were flying at Mellon arena as Sidney Crosby got his second NHL career hat trick and first ever on home ice. Crosby also picked up an assist on Petr Sykora's second period goal. Sidney Crosby scored one goal per period, getting 4 points this game. Of course Crosby was named by the first star of the game, followed by fellow Penguins Evgeni Malkin (second star) and Petr Sykora (third star). This Pittsburgh victory broke the New Jersey Devils' 5 game winning streak.
Sidney Crosby Scored a Goal and Set Up Two For Evgeni Malkin Who Got a Hat Trick as The Penguins Came Back From a Three Goal Deficit to Beat The Islanders 5-3
Wednesday November 26, 2008
By mid second period the Islanders were beating the Penguins 3-0. Pittsburgh's Brooks Orpik managed a goal late in the third to put the Penguins on the scoreboard. Things went in Pittsburgh's favor during the third period which was dominated by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin. Crosby got the first goal of the period assisted by Malkin and Letang. Then Evgeni Malkin scored three times for the hat trick and a 5-3 victory for the Pens.
In all Evgeni Malkin added 4 points to his tally this game and Sidney Crosby added 3. Evgeni Malkin was named the first star of the game, followed by Sidney Crosby, and Islander Trent Hunter was third.
The Vancouver Canucks Held Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin Pointless Neutralizing the Pittsburgh Penguins with a 3-1 Win After an Early Game Brawl and Losing Roberto Luongo
Saturday November 22, 2008
This was the only 2008-09 regular season match up between the Penguins and Canucks. Despite several power plays and scoring chances Pittsburgh lost the game as the Canuks effectively neutralized the Penguins keeping Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin from getting a single point.
While the Canuks won the game they lost star goaltender Roberto Luongo less than five minutes into the first period to his first ever groin injury. Luongo is clearly a big part of Vancouver's huge success this season and up to this point is leading the league with 5 shutouts. Losing Luongo may prove costly to Vancouver if they lose him for an extended period of time.
Minutes before Luongo was injured an exciting brawl broke out at centre ice. Only 25 seconds into the game Vancouver defender Alexander Elder went tumbling from a solid hip check delivered by Pittsburgh's Matt Cooke. While no penalty was called the Canucks were not happy. Alex Burrows went after Cooke but Jannik Hansen got there first and the battle was on. Brooks Orpik got in on the action as he scuffled with Burrows and Tyler Kennedy got into it with Ryan Kesler.
By the end of the fights 11 penalties were dished out totaling over 50 minutes. Cooke and Hansen were ejected from the game with fighting majors and game misconducts. Every true hockey fan enjoys a brawl so if you missed the hockey game you can see the fight in the video below.
The Penguins failed to score on all four of their power play opportunities. Their only goal came early in the third period by Mike Zigomanis, assisted by Tyler Kennedy and Alex Goligoski, making the game 2-1. Late in the game Pittsburgh pulled their goalie to try and tie the game but Vancouver's Pavol Demitra got the empty netter making the final score 3-1. The Sedin twins, Henrik and Daniel assisted on Demitra's goal. Demitra also scored the first goal of the game for the Canuks during the first period, assisted by the Sedin's. Henrik Sedin and Daniel Sedin tallied points in all three of Vancouver's goals. During the second period Danile scored, assisted by his brother Henrik.
Evgeni Malkin Continues to lead the NHL in points (31) and assists
(24), while Sidney Crosby is near the top of the assists list too with
18. On Wednesday November 26 the Penguins will visit the Islanders.
Sidney Crosby Scores a Goal and Earns Two Assists as the Pittsburgh Penguins Emerge Victorious 3-2 over the Atlanta Thrashers
Wednesday November 20, 2008
Tonight Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game as the Penguins and Thrashers both played a hard close game. Heck, the play was so close that it was tied 2-2 for the last half of the game.
Trouble is, it sucks to be Atlanta because late in the third period they got nailed by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Petr Sykora. In fact, Sykora tipped in Crosby's slap shot for the big game winning goal. Malkin and Crosby were credited with assists.
Here's the scary part: Pittsburgh was on the power play! What makes this so special? Quite simply, the odds of this goal happening were infinitesimal considering Sykora's power play goal was the Penguins fourth in their last 37 road games. As you probably know they are doing much better on the power play at home, ranking fifth best in the league.
Well, this time, Tyler Kennedy hooked up Sidney Crosby for his goal during the second period. Kennedy stole the puck behind the net and slid the puck to Crosby. Crosby fired off a wrist shot as he was falling backwards to beat Thrasher's goalie Ondrej Pavelec.
Both goalies played great. Atlanta's Pavelec stopped 28 of 31 shots, including denying Pittsburgh during a 5 on 3 power play during the second period. Pittsburgh's Dany Sabourin stopped 21 of 23 shots, including a late third period breakaway attempt by Thrasher Marty Reasoner. Sabourin is filling in for Marc Andre Fleury who is out with an undisclosed lower back injury.
This was a nice road win for the Penguins. To top it off Evgeni Malkin
continues to lead the league with 31 points. Needless to say, Malkin
also leads the NHL in assists at 24, followed by Crosby in second with
18 assists.
Sidney Crosby Needed To Score during the Shootout to Keep the Game Alive But Niklas Backstrom Made the Save Leading to a 2-1 Shootout Victory for the Minnesota Wild
Tuesday November 18, 2008
Tonight Sidney Crosby was help pointless as the Minnesota Wild beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 2-1 in a shootout victory. This puts an end to the Penguins 6 game winning streak and Evgeni Malkin's consecutive game point streak which ends at 13 (the longest in his NHL career so far).
Niklas Backstrom is obviously a quality goalie and the best player on the team but the rest of the Wild's players are doing poorly. To be fair the Wild did a great job defensively holding both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin to one shot each and denying them of goals and assists tonight. However, the Minnesota Wild absolutely suck at scoring goals this season. As you probably know the only regulation time goal they received this game came during the first period and was credited to Miko Koivu. However, the goal slipped by Pittsburgh goaltender, Dany Soburin, after a faceoff in which Mike Zigomanis passed the puck back towards Hal Gil but it slipped into Pittsburgh's net instead.
The good news is that less than 10 seconds later, Pittsburgh's Matt Cooke put Jordan Staal's rebound past Backstrom into Minnesota's net to tie the game. There was no scoring for the rest of the game with it going to a shootout.
Marek Zidlicky of the Wild was the first shooter for the Wild and scored a shootout goal. Sidney Crosby was the third and final shooter for the Penguins. It was up to Crosby to score in order to keep Pittsburgh alive this game. Unfortunately, things didn't work out for the Penguins this time and the Wild got the win.
Jordan Staal Had Two Goals Including the Game Winner Evgeni Malkin Notched Four Points and Sidney Crosby Opened the First of a Four Goal Third Period That Rallied The Penguins to a 5-2 Victory Over The Sabres
Saturday November 15, 2008
Tonight the Pittsburg Penguins started the third period against the Buffalo Sabres trailing 2-1. Sidney Crosby got the first goal of the period to tie the game and start a four goal third period rally for the Penguins.
By the end of the game Evgeni Malkin scored a goal and notched three assists, Jordan Staal scored two goals, including the game winner, and Rusaln Fedotenko and Alex Goligoski each had a goal for the Penguins. Final score 5-2 Pittsburgh.
Evgeni Malkin continues his NHL career game point streak, now at 13 games, and was named the first star of the game. Jordan Staal was the second star and Alex Gligoski the third.
This game the Penguins wore their vintage 1960's early 70s look blue "third jersey" similar to the one they wore at last season's NHL Winter Classic held outdoors on new years day. At that game they quite fittingly played the Buffalo Sabres' and Sidney Crosby got the 2-1 shootout victory goal. Makes you wonder what the Sabre's think of the color blue, doesn't it?
Sidney Crosby Keeps Penguins Alive After Blowing 3-0 Lead Over The Flyers With Late Game Tying Third Period Goal Setting Up a 5-4 Shootout Victory
Thursday November 13, 2008
Despite Sidney Crosby's goal resulting in a three goal lead by early second period, the Penguins managed to trail a goal by the end of the same period. In fact, Philadelphia scored all four of its goals during the second period. The Penguins seem to have a knack for blowing leads lately.
Matt Cooke was the only player to score a goal in the first period putting the Penguins one ahead of the Philadelphia Flyers. Just under four minutes into the second period Evgeni Malkin scored a goal, extending his game point streak to 12, followed by a Sidney Crosby goal two minutes and forty seconds later.
However, the Flyers outshot the Penguins 17-10 during the second period and it paid off for them. At 7:46 of the second period the Philadelphia Flyers began to rack up the goals. First Jeff Carter tipped in the puck, followed by Simon Gagne scoring two goals in a row, and finally Joffrey Lupul scored. In less than 13 minutes the Penguins managed to blow a 3-0 lead giving the Flyers a lead of 4-3.
The Penguins pulled Marc Andre Fleury for the first time this season, by the beginning of the third period, replacing him with Dany Sabourin. Sabourin didn't let a single puck get past him. On the other end Martin Biron played well in goal as well. The period was more than three quarters of the way done before anyone registered a goal. It was Sidney Crosby who put in the game tying goal and his second of the game. Maxim Talbot and Evgeni Malkin assisted on Crosby's goal.
In addition to his 12 point game streak, Evgeni Malkin continues to lead the league in assists at 20 with Crosby following in second at 15 (Nashville's J.P. Dumont is third also with 15). Malkin was leading the league in points but has fallen to second as big mouth Alexander Semin takes the lead by 1 point with a total of 27.
Getting back to the game…
No one scored during overtime and the shootout saw a dozen players attempt to score. Of the twelve shooters it was the eleventh one, Pittsburgh's Goligoski, who got the lone shootout goal. Rookie Alex Goligoski faked the backhander, switched to the forehand, and put the puck right between the legs of Martin Biron. Goligoski scored on his first career shootout attempt to win the game 5-4 for the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Sidney Crosby was named the first star of the game, followed by Philadelphia's
Simone Gagne second, and Alex Goligoski was third. Evgeni Malkin's
12 game point streak is the highest of his NHL career so far.
Sidney Crosby Gets First Goal as the Pittsburgh Penguins Face Marian Hossa and the Detroit Red Wings for the First Time Since Battling in the Stanley Cup Finals Last NHL Season
Tuesday November 11, 2008
The first goal of the game went to the Pittsburgh Penguins scored by Sidney Crosby, who also picked up two assists, for an overtime win 7-6 against the Red Wings. Max Talbot and Miroslav Satan were credited with assists on Crosby's goal. Talbot stole the puck from Detroit's Brian Rafalski, sent it to Satan who then passed the puck to Crosby in front of the net. Crosby's backhander was a success as it got passed Chris Osgood.
While Crosby got the first goal of the game, it was Pittsburgh's only lead for the rest of regulation time. By the end of the first period Red Wings Darren McCarty (assisted by Kirk Malby), and Tomas Holmstrom (assisted by Nicklas Llidstrom and Marian Hossa) made the game 2-1 for Detroit.
Just over a minute into the second period Detroit's Johan Franzen notched a goal leaving the Penguins behind by 2. A few minutes later Maxime Talbot, assisted by Sykora and Crosby, scored for Pittsburgh. Pavel Datsyuk, assisted by Hossa and Lidstrom, put Detroit ahead by two goals again to end the second period.
As the third period reached the five minute mark Henrik Zetterberg scored for the Red Wings. Shortly after, with Detroit short two players, Evgeni Malkin, assisted by Sidney Crosby and Miroslav Satan, got the power play goal for the Penguins extending his game point streak to 11. Malkin's goal was the beginning of a Penguins rally.
A little over a minute later Jordan Staal picked up his third goal of the season, assisted by Cooke and Zigomanis, cutting Detroit's lead to one goal. The relentless Red Wings managed the next goal giving them a two goal lead by the mid point of the period. Surprisingly, Jordan Staal was the hero of the game when he scored the final two goals of the game, giving him his second NHL career hat trick, and saving the Penguins by sending the game into overtime.
Jordan Staal's heroics didn't end in the third period though. In fact, during overtime Staal stole the puck away from Pavel Datsyuk and set up Ruslan Fedotenko's game winning goal. Staal was named the first star of the game, followed by Detroit's Jiri Hudler second, and Sidney Crosby third.
Last season two of Detroit's players were Penguins, namely Ty Conklin and Marian Hossa. Fans and players alike were shocked to hear Hossa decided to turn down a lucrative, seven season $50 million contract with the Penguins and head to Detroit for a one year $7.5 million deal instead.
As you probably remember, the chemistry between Marian Hossa and Sidney Crosby was electrifying last season. Bottom line is that Hossa found it difficult to leave a linemate like Crosby but he felt in the short term the Wings were his best shot at winning the Stanley Cup. The Red Wings have benefited from Hossa's presence. In fact, Hossa leads the Wings so far this season at 21 points, with 2 from assists tonight. Maxime Talbot has made it clear he is bitter that Hossa chose to leave Steel City and head over to Hockeytown instead.
Evgeni Malkin continues to lead the league with 24 points, with 5 goals and a league leading 19 assists. Sidney Crosby is second in league assists with 15.
Sidney Crosby Left Practice Early Due To Injury Yesterday But Skated In The Penguins 4-3 Shootout Victory Against The Islanders
Saturday November 8, 2008
Sidney Crosby was held pointless in this game against the Islanders. Seems Crosby is still able to make some nice plays but his injury must be hampering him from playing at peak levels. Nevertheless, The Penguins managed to come from behind with an impressive third period rally, outshooting the Islanders 18-1, to win 4-3 in the shootout.
Apparently, the New York Islanders have been blowing leads late in the game. Ironic, that the Penguins were having the same problem recently.
Tonight Jordan Staal scored a goal and Tyler Kennedy got two for the Penguins during regulation time. Petr Sykora got the only goal during the shootout giving the Penguins their 4-3 win. Sykora was named the first star of the game, Tyler Kennedy the second, and New York's Andy Hilbert the third.
The last shooter of the shootout was Trent Hunter of the Islanders. Pittsburgh's goalie Dany Sabourin stopped the puck but slid across the goal line with the puck under his pad. Unable to see the puck the refs called it a no goal. Islander's coach Scott Gordon demanded a review of the play but the puck wasn't visible from any of the camera angles so the no goal call was upheld.
Evgeni Malkin was hit in the hand with the puck during the first period
and left briefly to ice it. Fortunately, Malkin returned to the game
and assisted Jordan Staal on his goal during the second period. This
now gives Evgeni Malkin a 10 game point streak. Malkin continues to
lead the NHL in league points at 22 and league assists at 18.
Read More Sidney Crosby News Here
Sidney Crosby Hype or Future Hockey Legend?
Sidney Crosby is the next hockey legend unfolding right before your eyes. True, Crosby is highly hyped in the media spotlight. Also true, many excellent players before Crosby were hyped, yet did not live up to the headlines. Unfortunately, the media has let us down so much that we are trained disbelievers, it's no wonder a number of Crosby bashers lurk among us.
Let me assure you Sidney Crosby is the real deal. Don't believe the Sidney Crosby hype; instead believe the facts and the magic that is appearing before your very eyes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the Sidney Crosby show as he takes you along for an electrifying journey through his hockey career. Just watch this highlight reel posted on January 7, 2007 on Utube.
I plan to follow Sidney Crosby as he lights up the NHL and truly believe in 20 years from now, excluding serious injury, the career of Sidney Crosby will be the stuff of legend. I hope to share it all through this Sidney Crosby Spotlight site. You will find all sorts of Sidney Crosby news, facts, information, stats, photos, articles, updates and his biography on this site.
is an unofficial fan tribute web site dedicated to NHL phenom Sidney
Crosby. This site is in no way affiliated, or associated with Sidney
Crosby, the NHLPA, or the National Hockey Leauge (NHL).