The Pittsburgh Penguins rallied with two late goals in the third period but ultimately lost 5-4 in a shootout against the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center on March 11. The game marked the start of a five-game road trip for the Penguins.
The result matters as the Penguins continue to compete for playoff positioning, showing resilience despite missing key players. The team’s ability to earn a point against a strong opponent could prove important as the season progresses.
“We’re a resilient team,” Stuart Skinner said. “We’ve got guys in here who will do whatever it takes to win games and to get a point. We’re in March now, against a team that’s really hard to beat in their building. The fact that we came back on them is impressive to say the least.”
Before the game, Head Coach Dan Muse announced that forward Justin Brazeau would be out week-to-week with an upper body injury and defenseman Sam Girard is day-to-day with an upper body injury. The Hurricanes opened scoring early, but Anthony Mantha tied it late in the first period, matching his career-high points total for a season. Bryan Rust gave Pittsburgh its first lead during one of four consecutive power plays, but Carolina responded with three straight goals before Rust and Noel Acciari scored late to force overtime.
Ryan Shea said, “We lost the game, but without (Skinner), we would probably lose by three goals if it weren’t for some of the saves that he made. We just have to start playing better defense when he’s in the net, and he’s given us everything that he has.”
With captain Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin absent due to injuries, several players have stepped up offensively over recent games. In overtime, Pittsburgh failed to convert on a power play before falling short in the shootout.
Rust said after regulation time ended, “We certainly don’t give up in this room. It says a lot about the guys in here.” Skinner added after the shootout loss: “It gave us a chance. I just had to make one more save just to get it going, or make two and win the game. It’s a tough position.”
The Penguins are set to continue their road trip with an upcoming matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights following a day off.
The franchise features Hall of Fame players, coaches and executives who have contributed significantly over its history according to its official website. The team has achieved numerous playoff appearances and division titles through consistent competition according to its official website. As part of Pittsburgh’s sports culture, they maintain strong fan traditions and community ties according to its official website. Home games are played at PPG Paints Arena according to its official website, while Fenway Sports Group oversees business operations for the organization according to its official website.
