Second period flurry downs Pens

The Penguins slow start against the Kings yesterday set the tone for the game. The Penguins struggled on the shot clock and took over 9 minutes to register their first attempt on goal. Despite the Kings clear dominance in the first period the Penguins were able to stymie their efforts and restrict them from getting any clear chances. However, in the second period it was clear that the Penguins were not able to continue that game plan throughout the 60 minutes.

The Kings took an early lead in the second on the power play through their defensive leader, Drew Doughty. It came off a Rob Scuderi penalty for a delay of game, Scuderi's second penalty of the game. The Penguins power play itself only got given two chances throughout the game. With Letang out Warsofsky was quarter backing the power play. There was a notable improvement with zone time but the same issues of poor passing was evident, the Penguins only managed two shots in total.

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The Penguins were then caught completely flat footed as the Kings scored three goals in a span of 2 minutes and 25 seconds. It started with Ehrhoff scoring his first as a King, naturally, against the Penguins. Lucic scored his first of two on the night, although it was a shot Fleury should have done better with. The Penguins did attempt to halt the tide with a Kunitz goal 11:20 in. Crosby dug the puck out from behind the net and dished it to Kunitz in front of the net.

It was a short respite as the Kings continued to carve the Penguins defence apart. Jake Muzzin was left wide open on the left hand side and buried it to re-establish the Kings two goal lead. Olli Maatta scored on his return, a nice backhand and although Crosby got a tally late on, Lucic scored an EN to give the Kings a deserved win.

After the game it was quoted that Scuderi, Fehr and Cullen were not happy with the Penguins play. I don't think Fehr and Cullen can blame themselves, that fourth line has been dynamite lately. What doesn't help is an experienced player like Scuderi making simple errors. Scuderi has been poor this season so if there is anyone he should be directing his anger to, it should be himself.

The Penguins continue their trip against the Ducks tonight at 8pm EST.