In response to a dirty hit, the Pittsburgh Penguins retaliated effectively, scoring two goals on the penalty play. The Penguins shut out the Winnipeg Jets, one of the greatest teams in the Western Conference, 3-0, demonstrating that they can play to their better instincts while mostly remaining composed and patient.
Tristan Jarry recorded his sixth shutout of the season.
In the 500th NHL game for Jake Guentzel and the 800th game for coach Mike Sullivan behind the bench, the Penguins and Winnipeg smoothly concluded their bye week.
But the game was all but decided by the middle of the second period. In response to Winnipeg defenseman Brenden Dillon’s nasty hit on Noel Acciari, the Penguins scored two power-play goals as a result of a huge penalty, rather than taking small revenge.
But instead of igniting a five-alarm fire and a fight, the Penguins inhaled deeply and concentrated on the power play. With the subsequent huge penalty, they scored twice, and the match was all but decided.
Winger Bryan Rust stated, “The original goal was to put some pucks in on that power play, and we did.” That was really important for our group.
Dillon was given a match penalty as well.
Match penalties are automatically reviewed by the league. There won’t be much use for the Department of Player Safety if Dillon doesn’t face severe additional punishment for this one. Dillon set up a player who was open to attack and struck the player squarely in the head. It was completely preventable.
This season, Acciari has played a crucial role in the Penguins’ penalty kill. During the first three weeks of December, when he was not in the lineup, the penalty kill performed terribly, killing just 71.4% of the opportunities against (opponents went eight-for-27).
The Penguins’ answer was not to be overlooked. The Penguins scored, which is more spectacular than seeking revenge and payback. After they refocused, their faltering power play units performed well. Jeff Carter scored from above the goal line. From the side of the crease, Rust scored.
I think one of the two is true. Either you have to score or force them to exchange blood. The goals rapidly reduced the temperature.
And most of the game was over. This Saturday’s Penguins trip to Winnipeg might be a little more spicy than most had thought.
Three game suspension! Glad the 5 minute penalty was a return smash in their faces! Kind of a goon team anyhow! Glad he got up! Thank God! Hate dirty shots like that! Why?