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Captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, Sidney Crosby, returned to the ice after playing just six games in 18 this season.
He has scored two points, that being a goal and an assist. However, upon Crosby’s return, the Penguins were struggling in the league standings and with star alternate captain Evgeni Malkin still out of the line-up for the next few months, it is up to the captain to step up and contribute to his team’s production.
The Penguins had a successful Canadian road trip with a record of 3-0-0, notching six points. They beat the likes of the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs and just yesterday, the Winnipeg Jets.
Two of those three games resulted in shutouts for goaltender Tristian Jarry, who has been a crucial factor in the team’s success. When you have a hot goalie, you will win games and leave the rest for the offensive units.
However, Crosby’s impact has benefited his team with his leadership and presence, resulting in the likes of teammates Jake Guentzel, Kris Letang and Bryan Rust increasing their production.
The captain returned from a nagging injury which has bothered him for the last five years, including the back-to-back Cup runs. However, he has fully recovered and is ready to go again. His slow start may worry some, however, when returning from an injury such as a wrist injury, it will take some time to get used to handling the puck and making creative plays within the team.
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Pittsburgh’s powerplay is the worst in the league and with Crosby’s presence, it’s only a matter of time before the powerplay unit becomes a force again. Of course Evgeni Malkin is missed, however, with a playmaker in Crosby, creative plays are bound to happen.
The Pens’ record currently is 8-6-3 as they continue this fine run of form against the Vancouver Canucks tomorrow back in Pittsburgh. Vancouver has also had a slow start with a record of 6-11-2.
Pittsburgh are ultimate favourites heading into tomorrow’s game, and the two key players to look out for will be Crosby and Jarry. As mentioned, Jarry has dominated the Canadian road trip in net and will look to continue his fine form at home in front of a loud home crowd.
My prediction for tomorrow’s game is 4-2 Pittsburgh. Look for forwards such as Jeff Carter, Kasperi Kapanen, Jake Guentzel, Bryan Rust, Danton Heinen and defenceman Kris Letang to produce in a highly anticipated game.
