gallagher87

Tonight the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated Montreal 2-0 and moved into a temporary hold of the Atlantic division lead. This was despite the exclusion of Crosby due to health reasons (high ankle sprain) Why did this occur?.

I think this is why:

• Dany Sabourin played with no rust, posting another shutout. In the last 12 games the Penguins are 10-1-1. Stalwart goaltending from Conklin and Sabourin has been instrumental in the Penguins recent climb up the standings.
  

• The fourth line stepping up to record the game winning goal. With Crosby out, all lines will need to produce. Especially Malkin and Sykora will need to step up. Which leads to...

• The pairing of Malkin and Sykora on the same line was a good choice by coach Michel Therrien. They played well together despite the lack of scoring And no, I don't count the empty netter, even though that was still awesome).
  

• The Canadiens inability to play well despite their poor home record (If that makes sense)

• Few penalties
  

The Penguins won this game, but I am worried about when the Pens play the Flyers next Thursday. We will see how this will carry out, I guess.