The Penguins came into this game on a high after their dominant Game 6 win in Tampa Bay, despite their record in past Game 7's at home being poor. The Bolts were boosted by the news of Stamkos returning before the game but he was limited to third line time and was most ineffectual. Not surprising really seeing as it was his first game in over two months.
The games first period was a very chippy affair with the puck bouncing around more than a ball in a pinball machine. Some plays were being built but most moves were tame and not challenging either goaltender. Tampa started the better and controlled the zone for a while but failed to really challenge Murray early on. As the period dragged on Pittsburgh improved and by the end they were starting to pepper Vasilevskiy.
The break did Tampa well but from that point on the Penguins system continually shut them down offensively and restricted their shot attempts. At the other end Vasilevskiy was doing his best to keep the Bolts in the game but with 21 shots by Pittsburgh in the second period he was unlikely to keep all of them out. The first goal by Bryan Rust will be one he would have wanted to stop. Rust received the puck from the wing just ahead of the blue line, he skated forward and shot over Vasilveskiy to give the Penguins the lead.
The Bolts were given hope for a brief period, just over 9 minutes into the period. Drouin carried the puck from the right side of the Penguins to the left and did a short of sling shot over Murray's top right shoulder. He didn't even look at his shot and it was an impressive finish. However, the Bolts were quickly behind again with Rust scoring his second. This one a lot more "rough". A tap at a loose puck which bounced back off the boards to Vasilevskiy and crept in behind him.
The Penguins had plenty of opportunities in the third period to end the game and they really should have added more goalies. Vasilevskiy was incredible for the Lightning but they just fell short. The Penguins defence definitely gave me some frights near the end. Crosby predictable lifted the Prince of Wales Trophy. I'm glad he did as it means the whole thing about lifting the trophy or not is pointless as San Jose didn't touch theirs.
The Stanley Cup finals will begin Monday in Pittsburgh. I really think this will be a close series and the winner will do it in six. If Pittsburgh don't win, I'll be upset but I won't be mad. I never expected we'd get this far and San Jose will be worthy winners if they do it. But, lets hope we don't come to that. Go Pens!
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