With the number of injuries that the Penguins had suffered recently this had the possibility of being a troubling game against a team that has caused us problems in the past. However, Florida have been struggling lately and came into the game on a 3-6-1 record in the previous 10 games. They're certainly not going to make the play offs now.
Fleury was given the start today and since the trade deadline he has been superb, after his shut-out today he is now riding a 1.67 GAA and .946 SV% since then. He played well today but wasn't called into action that much, Florida only had a few quality chances but never really threatened. The defence mostly kept the puck out of the shooting lanes which restricted Florida to just 21 shots in the whole game.
The Penguins made Reimer look uncomfortable early on at the other end and could have scored a couple in the first period before Hornqvist's goal with the puck seemingly staying out at the last minute. Hornqvist's goal was a mixture of golf and baseball with Kessel chipping the puck over the net to him to baseball swing into the net.
In the second the Penguins pushed on and the top line of Guentzel, Crosby and Sheary started to cause problems with the Panthers thanks to their continued physical presence and refusal to give up on the puck. All three of Crosby's goals for his hat-trick were assisted by both the above. Crosby's first was a similar one to the goal he scored against the Devils but nearer the net with a wicked wrister over Reimer. The second was much more skillful with a no look backhand in front of the net that complete confused Reimer.
As if to put an exclamation point on the game, Crosby finished it off with a quick release after Guentzel found him with a quick, no look dish. Crosby made this game his own and carried the team with the absence of so many players. Now he is tied for the points lead and leads in goals, he could win both still.
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