The Pittsburgh Penguins began their three-game road trip with a 4-3 shootout loss to the Florida Panthers on Sunday. Despite battling back from a 3-1 deficit, the defending Stanley Cup champions could not secure the win.
Bryan Rust, who scored twice and added an assist, emphasized the importance of finding ways to close out games. “I think shows a lot about the character and leadership in this room, is that we’re in here to keep fighting hard, keep playing really hard,” Rust said. “It doesn’t really matter where we are, kind of what’s going on, I think we’re in here to still prove something and still be a good hockey team.”
Head Coach Mike Sullivan praised Rust’s development from a defensive forward into an offensive asset. “He’s an inspiring player,” Sullivan stated. “He just plays an honest game. He gives you an honest effort every night.” Sullivan highlighted Rust’s role alongside Sidney Crosby and Rickard Rakell as invaluable for driving the team’s offense.
Crosby extended his point streak to seven games with two assists during the match. He is now two points away from surpassing Wayne Gretzky for most point-per-game seasons in NHL history.
Evgeni Malkin also contributed by scoring his second goal in consecutive games since returning from a break spent in Miami.
Tristan Jarry stopped 27 of 30 shots and was strong throughout despite the outcome favoring the Panthers. Sullivan noted Jarry’s confidence since returning from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League: “When he plays up to his capabilities, he’s a legitimate number one goalie.”
The Penguins will next face off against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday at 7 PM.
