Pittsburgh Review

Alex Nedeljkovic was recognized as the game's Second Star in the Pittsburgh Penguins' 3-2 loss to the Boston Bruins at PPG Paints Arena. Despite an early two-goal deficit, Nedeljkovic's performance kept his team competitive.

"Ned was huge. I don't think we came out with the game or the energy that we would have liked, and they jumped out to a lead," Bryan Rust said. "I think after that lead, he was incredible. He made every save."

Coach Mike Sullivan chose to start Nedeljkovic again after pulling him in a previous game against Philadelphia for momentum reasons rather than performance issues. This decision drew strong emotions from Nedeljkovic, who managed to regroup and deliver key saves throughout the match.

"I thought Ned responded really well," Matt Grzelcyk commented. "He keeps us in it... That’s the type of competitor he is. That’s why we love playing in front of him."

David Pastrnak extended his point streak to 17 games with a breakaway goal just 1:32 into the game, contributing to Boston's early lead. "I mean, we give up a breakaway to one of the best goal scorers of the last couple of years. There’s nothing Ned can do on that," Grzelcyk stated.

The Bruins capitalized on their first power play, compounding difficulties for Pittsburgh following their comeback win against Philadelphia. The Penguins had several power-play opportunities but struggled to convert them into goals.

"I just thought we were a little slow. I don't think we were making the right reads," Rust remarked regarding their power play performance.

Nedeljkovic remained strong during critical moments, including stopping Pastrnak on a penalty shot in the third period. Anthony Beauvillier scored shorthanded to narrow the gap before Rickard Rakell was high-sticked late in the game. With Nedeljkovic pulled for an extra attacker, Boston secured an empty-net goal before Rakell scored on a power play.

"I think we're just kind of hesitating a little bit and holding onto pucks," Grzelcyk said about their struggles on offense.

The Penguins aim to recover when they face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday at 1 p.m., concluding their three-game homestand.