Crosby leads Pens past Ottawa

The first game back after the all star break didn't disappoint. This was the first time this season that the Penguins scored 6 goals in a game and they could easily have scored more. The only downside to the game was the rather disappointing performance from Marc-Andre Fleury who looked out of sorts.

The Penguins started the game superbly by dominating the play in the first period and restricting Ottawa. It took Ottawa over 10 minutes to get their first shot on goal. The Penguins continued this pressure on Ottawa's forwards throughout the period and took advantage through Matt Cullen with 7 minutes gone.

Cullen has been a superb signing for the Pens this season and has really helped create a dynamic fourth line that is capable of adding offense and also physical pressure on opposing teams first lines. For only $800k as well, it really makes him a steal. Although he is 39 I would look to sign him to a 1 year deal this summer. If he can continue like this, why not?

The Penguins managed to add a second, through their top line before Ottawa had even had their first shot on goal. Kunitz did his best on a breakaway but could only see his shot pushed out to Crosby who centered it to Letang for an open net goal. The goal was originally reviewed due to the possibility of goaltender interference on Andersen but the referees saw nothing wrong and awarded the goal.

Despite being quiet Ottawa managed to score on just their third shot of the game. Mark Stone enjoys playing against Pittsburgh and has 5 goals in 5 games to show for it. Fleury tried to get into the action by playing the puck but mis-played it and Stone latched onto it. The Penguins got their two goal lead straight away with a lucky Kunitz goal.

But, Ottawa wouldn't let their lack of shots affect their chances and scored three straight to jump to a 4-3 lead after just 3 minutes and 51 seconds from their 2nd. The  Penguins boast an offensive core however that are the envy of a lot of teams and they carried the Penguins.

The Power play was once much maligned but under Sullivan it is now rejuvenated. The Penguins scored two back-to-back goals with Crosby benefiting from some quick and nifty passing which credited to some nice finishes. Crosby was quite lucky on his hat-trick goal after it ricocheted off him in front of net.

The Penguins played well but their defense was flat and can't play like that again. I don't believe Sullivan will let them.