Penguins Grades: Momentum Builds, Stunning Comeback Secures Playoff Position
If the perpetrators behind the Jagr bobblehead theft also managed to snatch the real Pittsburgh Penguins, they might as well keep them. The current rendition of the Penguins is fully embracing the momentum they’ve been building, as evidenced by their surge towards a playoff berth. Remarkably, they now occupy the second wild-card spot following Saturday’s action.
In an unexpected twist, even in Game 77, their speed seems to be increasing. Furthermore, their resilience is becoming more apparent.
Despite dominating the Tampa Bay Lightning throughout the first 40 minutes, the Penguins faced the looming threat of yet another disappointing defeat due to a third-period collapse. However, this time, they rallied together, culminating in Michael Bunting’s emotionally charged game-winning goal. Their tenacity paid off as they clinched their fourth consecutive victory with a 5-4 triumph over Tampa Bay on Saturday afternoon.
The Penguins even withstood a late-game Tampa Bay power play, facing a daunting 6v4 situation with the extra attacker.
“Chaotic is a fitting word. Nevertheless, our team did an exceptional job of blocking shots. Personally, I didn’t have a clear view of many of their shots, which is a credit to their players for obstructing my line of sight. Additionally, our penalty killers, especially towards the end, stepped up by sacrificing their bodies to block shots, making it challenging for the opposing team to generate offense, particularly in the 6v4 scenario,” remarked goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic.
Just a mere 10 days ago, critics were ready to write off the Penguins’ season entirely. However, the team’s recent resurgence has propelled them into a playoff position, where they now control their own destiny. With Saturday’s win marking their 31st regulation victory, they have essentially secured any tiebreaker advantage against other playoff contenders.
The Penguins have now secured points in eight consecutive games.
As the final buzzer sounded, the Penguins found themselves in the coveted second wild-card spot. If both the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers suffered losses on Saturday night, the Penguins could potentially rise to third place in the Metropolitan Division standings.
With only five games remaining on their schedule, the Penguins find themselves in a position of complete control over their playoff aspirations.
Beyond the excitement of the playoff race, the team’s star players once again showcased their brilliance.
While the younger players may receive their fair share of recognition, it’s the seasoned veterans of the Penguins who are currently leading the charge.
Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Erik Karlsson displayed their prowess on the ice. Crosby’s performance was nothing short of exceptional, Malkin demonstrated his offensive prowess with a pair of goals and an assist, while Karlsson showcased his offensive and defensive capabilities, delivering precise shots amidst heavy traffic.
