The New York Islanders traveled to Pittsburgh to face the Penguins in an intense Metropolitan Division matchup on December 29, 2024. Both teams are battling for playoff positioning, and the Penguins capitalized on their home-ice advantage, securing a 4-3 victory in overtime.
Game Recap
The Penguins opened the scoring in the first period with a power-play goal by Sidney Crosby, who tapped in a slick pass from Kris Letang. The Islanders tied the game midway through the second period with a wrist shot from Mathew Barzal.
The Penguins regained the lead moments later with a breakaway goal by Jake Guentzel. However, the Islanders’ Anders Lee evened the score in the third period, sending the game into overtime after a defensive battle in the closing minutes of regulation.
In overtime, Evgeni Malkin secured the win with a pinpoint wrist shot, beating Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin and igniting the home crowd.
Key Performances
- Pittsburgh Penguins:
- Sidney Crosby: 1 goal, 1 assist, 4 shots on goal.
- Jake Guentzel: 1 goal, 1 assist.
- Evgeni Malkin: Game-winning goal in OT, 3 shots on goal.
- New York Islanders:
- Mathew Barzal: 1 goal, 1 assist.
- Anders Lee: 1 goal, 5 hits.
- Ilya Sorokin: 35 saves, .921 save percentage.
Statistical Highlights
- Shots on Goal:
- Penguins: 39
- Islanders: 30
- Power Plays:
- Penguins: 1/3
- Islanders: 0/2
- Faceoff Wins:
- Penguins: 54%
- Islanders: 46%
Takeaways
- The Penguins showcased their offensive depth and ability to perform in clutch moments, with Crosby and Malkin leading the charge.
- The Islanders demonstrated resilience and defensive discipline but struggled to contain Pittsburgh’s dynamic top line.
Call-to-Action (CTA):
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