2012 NHL Playoffs: Rangers Force Game 7 Against Senators, Coyotes Advance

While the Penguins bowed out on Sunday afternoon, the first round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs continued on Monday night with two elimination games on the docket in Ottawa and Chicago.

The No. 1 seed New York Rangers held on in Game 6 for a 3-2 win in Ottawa, forcing a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. Rangers' goaltender Henrik Lundqvist was solid again, stuffing 25 shots. Ottawa added a controversial late goal in the final minute, but the Rangers work on the power play in the second period locked this one up. Derek Stepan opened the scoring for New York, notching his first goal of the playoffs, a power play strike that beat Craig Anderson to even it up 1-1. Stepan was absolutely brilliant all night, earning the top star with the goal and assisting on the Rangers' other two scores. His pretty feed to rookie Chris Kreider, who scored his first career goal after signing with the team just this month, proved to be the difference.

While the Rangers held on in the first game of the night, the Chicago Blackhawks were unable to force Game 7 against the Phoenix Coyotes. In a series that featured overtime in each of the first five games, the Coyotes received some dominant goaltending from Mike Smith to roll to a 4-0 shutout win. Smith had 16 saves in the first period alone, carrying the Coyotes to the third period with a 1-0 lead. Phoenix would pounce over the final 20 minutes, scoring three goals to remove all doubt. Two came on the power play, after Jimmy Hayes was issued a five-minute major and was sent off for boarding Michal Rozsival.

It was the first playoff series win for the franchise since 1987, when the club was still in Winnipeg. The Coyotes will face the Nashville Predators in the second round, pitting two of the hottest goaltenders in the game against one another, in Phoenix's Smith and Nashville's Pekka Rinne.

New York, meanwhile, will head home and host the Senators in Game 7 on Thursday night.

We'll have more on these games in this StoryStream, but please head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on the Playoffs.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Complete Schedule Of Monday's Games

Now that the Pittsburgh Penguins have been knocked out of the Playoffs by the Philadelphia Flyers, it would be understandable for Penguins fans to want to take some time away from hockey while their wounds heal. But there is still plenty of good playoff hockey going on, including two potential elimination games on Monday night.

That includes the New York Rangers, the team that held the top seed in the Eastern Conference for most of the regular season. They are on the ropes in their first round matchup with the Ottawa Senators and if they lose, that means that both of the series that will have reached conclusion in the Eastern Conference would have been upsets, and that is what makes playoff hockey so darn interesting.

Here are the games that will be played tonight and where you can find them.

Rangers Vs. Senators, 7 pm ET, NBC Sports Network: Ottawa leads series 3-2

Coyotes Vs. Blackhawks, 9 pm ET, CNBC: Phoenix leads series 3-2

We'll have more on these games in this StoryStream, but please head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on the Playoffs.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers: Reaction To Penguins' First Round Exit

The Pittsburgh Penguins showed some resolve in their first round Playoff series against the Flyers, forcing it to a Game 6 after falling behind 3-0. But the deficit was simply too much to overcome and the Pens were bounced from the Playoffs on Sunday after losing to the Flyers in Game 6. Our Penguins blog PensBurgh isn't ready to accurately judge the season quite yet.

In the end, the Pittsburgh Penguins couldn't fight out of a series hole and dropped Game 6 today in Philadelphia 5-1. The Flyers proved to be the better team over the course of the series and finished off the Pens rather easily today. As far as further commentary, we'll let the smoke from this fire clear before determining what comes next.

More: Why It's Not Wrong To Criticize Marc-Andre Fleury For The Penguins' Elimination

It's unfair for any team to have "Stanley Cup or bust" be their only goal, but I don't think it's unfair to have expected the Penguins to get out of the first round of the Playoffs. They simply ran into a buzz saw in the Philadelphia Flyers and they got outplayed throughout most of the series. So the Penguins' season now ends in extremely frustrating fashion to the team that they arguably wanted to lose to the least; and that's an awfully tough pill to swallow.

For more news and analysis on the Pittsburgh Penguins, make sure to visit PensBurgh. For more on the Flyers, head on over to Broad Street Hockey.

Why It's Not Wrong To Criticize Marc-Andre Fleury For The Penguins' Elimination

Yes, criticizing Marc-Andre Fleury for his performance against the Flyers can make you sound ignorant, but that doesn't make you wrong.

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: Philadelphia Eliminates Pittsburgh With 5-1 Victory

The Philadelphia Flyers put an end to the Pittsburgh Penguins comeback attempt, defeating the Pens 5-1 in Philadelphia Sunday afternoon.

The win was made possible courtesy of a stellar defensive effort from the Flyers. Although the Penguins outshot the Flyers 31-23, it would be the Flyers doing the dirty work necessary to win as evident by the 40-14 advantage in blocked shots.

Although the team that scored first in games 1 through 5 ended up losing, the Flyers made sure the trend ended in Game 6. The Flyers jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period thanks to goals by Claude Giroux and Scott Hartnell.

Claude Giroux also added two assists on the afternoon, bringing his point total for the series to 14 points, a Flyers record.

In the second period, the Flyers pushed their lead to 3-0 before James Neal finally got the Penguins on the board to cut the deficit to 3-1. The Flyers would not let the Penguins get any closer the rest of the way, pulling ahead 4-1 in the second and using a strong defensive effort the rest of the way for the victory.

Brayden Schenn added an empty net goal

The loss brings a disappointing end to a 51-win regular season for the Penguins. Pittsburgh has been knocked out of the first round of the playoffs for the second straight year.

For more news and analysis on the Pittsburgh Penguins, make sure to visit PensBurgh. For more on the Flyers, head on over to Broad Street Hockey.

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: Philadelphia Holds 4-1 Lead After Two Periods

The Philadelphia Flyers appear to have finally put a stranglehold on the Pittsburgh Penguins, as they now hold a 4-1 lead after two periods in Game 6.

The Flyers, who led 2-0 after one period, saw their lead grow to 3-0 with another early goal when Erik Gustafsson ripped a shot past Marc-Andre Fleury at the 5:25 mark of the period.

The Penguins finally had an answer when Evgeni Malkin scored a crucial power play goal at the 8:34 mark.

But just as they have all series, the Flyers had a quick answer, as this Danny Briere goal just 1:26 later gave the Flyers the momentum back, and a 4-1 lead.

The Penguins, on the brink of elimination, have looked lost in the defensive end all afternoon. Although the Flyers have outshot the Penguins by only a slim margin of 20-19, the Penguins have never been able to get into a rhythm in the attacking zone.

For more news and analysis on the Pittsburgh Penguins, make sure to visit PensBurgh. For more on the Flyers, head on over to Broad Street Hockey.

VIDEO: 2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 6: Philadelphia Leads 2-0 After One Period

The Philadelphia Flyers appear to have their confidence back, jumping out to a 2-0 lead at home in Game 6 of their series with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Flyers got an early start with this impressive goal by Claude Giroux less than a minute into the game.

The Philadelphia power play has dominated the Penguins all series, and they were able to pick up their 12th power play goal of the series when Scott Hartnell was able to chip a puck past Marc-Andre Fleury in a scrum to make it 2-0 Flyers.

Despite the Flyers dominating possession time, the two teams are tied in shots on goal at 9-9. The Penguins will need to regroup and keep the puck out of their own zone if they want to make a comeback.

For more news and analysis on the Pittsburgh Penguins, make sure to visit PensBurgh. For more on the Flyers, head on over to Broad Street Hockey.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 6: Can Pittsburgh Force A Winner-Take-All Game 7?

The Pittsburgh Penguins travel to Philadelphia on Sunday, looking to steal Game 6 on the road and set up a winner-take-all Game 7 at home in a series they once trailed 3-0.

The Penguins lost the first three games of the series by a combined score of 20-12, and looked all but done for in the 2012 postseason entering Game 4. A 10-3 shellacking of the Flyers, followed by a 3-2 win in Game 5, and Pittsburgh now finds itself with an ever-growing chance to become only fifth team in NHL history to come back a from a 3-0 playoff series deficit.

The Penguins were able to win Game 5 without a point from either Evgeni Malkin or Sidney Crosby. Jordan Staal continues to pick up the slack, as he tallied a hat trick in Game 4 and scored a game-tying goal in Game 5.

If the Penguins were to win on Sunday, the series would return to Pittsburgh on Tuesday.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Penguins Vs. Flyers Highlights Sunday's Schedule

The Pittsburgh Penguins are looking to do something only four other teams in NHL history have accomplished, come back from a 3-0 deficit to win a playoff series. To do so, the Penguins will need to win Sunday in Game 6 at Philadelphia to force a deciding Game 7 in Pittsburgh on Tuesday.

In other Sunday game action, the Washington Capitals are just one win away from advancing to the semifinal round of the 2012 Eastern Conference Playoffs and out West, the No. 8 seed is trying to down the No. 1 seed in convincing fashion.

Here is the complete schedule for NHL Playoff games to be played on Sunday:

Penguins Vs. Flyers: 12:00 p.m. ET, NBC

Bruins Vs. Capitals: 3:00 p.m. ET, NBC

Kings Vs. Canucks: 8:00 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 6: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Pittsburgh Penguins can continue their improbable recovery from a 3-0 series deficit when they travel to Philadelphia on Sunday to take on the Flyers in Game 6 of their opening round 2012 Eastern Conference playoff series.

Since losing the first three games of the series in ugly fashion, Pittsburgh blasted Philadelphia 10-3 in Game 4 and won a tight battle 3-2 in Game 5 behind the much-improved goaltending of Marc-Andre Fleury.

If the Penguins were to win on Sunday, the series would return to Pittsburgh on Tuesday for a winner-take-all Game 7.

Here is what you need to know for Sunday's critical Game 6:

Game Date & Time: Sunday, April 22, 12:00 pm ET.

Location: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA

TV Information: NBC

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Complete Schedule For Saturday's Games

Though the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers playoff series takes a break on Saturday, hockey fans will not lack for quality playoff excitement. Five critical Game 5s will be played on Saturday, beginning with a 3:00 p.m. ET puck drop in Boston and concluding with a 10:00 p.m. ET start in Phoenix.

Here is the complete schedule for NHL Playoff games to be played on Saturday:

Capitals Vs. Bruins: 3:00 p.m. ET, NBC

Devils Vs. Panthers: 6:30 p.m. ET, NHL Network

Senators Vs. Rangers: 7:00 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network

Sharks Vs. Blues: 7:30 p.m. EST, CNBC

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: 10:00 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Marc-Andre Fleury Brilliant In 3rd Period To Seal Game 5 Win

The Pittsburgh Penguins won their second straight game against the Philadelphia Flyers, pulling within one game after being down 3-0 in their first round series. The Pens scored twice in the second period to take a 3-2 lead, and from then on, they would ride their goaltender to the win. Marc-Andre Fleury, who's certainly been shaky at times against the Flyers, was fantastic for Pittsburgh over the final 40 minutes. Philly scored twice on the power play in the first period but that would be only damage in Game 5.

Fleury was solid in the second period, but he really stepped it up in the third. Philadelphia controlled the action for much of the final 20 minutes, peppering Fleury and applying constant pressure in the offensive zone. He stopped 14 shots in the final period. Philly looked like they might break through to tie it mid-way through the period, but Fleury made an unbelievable stop and held his ground as the Flyers tried to push it across the goal line before the whistle. He made a nifty jump move trying to get position, as you'll see from the animated gif below:

Fleury made seven stops on one power play alone. The Pens were forced to kill off a Tyler Kennedy slashing penalty, after he broke his stick on Scott Hartnell, in response to Hartnell catching him with a big check along the boards. An animated gif of the slash below:

Philly really turned it up with the man-advantage, but Fleury was once again up to the task.

It was an impressive home win for the Pens, and certainly more of a steady pace with improved goaltending. They now have some momentum heading into Game 6 on Sunday in Philadelphia, where all the pressure will be on the Flyers to close it out.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Pittsburgh Scores Twice To Take First Lead

The Pittsburgh Penguins took control of Game 5 in the second period at Consol Energy Center, scoring two goals on Ilya Bryzgalov and taking their first lead of the night. Pittsburgh tallied two goals in the first ten minutes of the period and then killed off a late interference penalty on Evgeni Malkin. After showing some frustration at times in the first period, it was a relatively clean second and Dan Bylsma's club will have all the momentum coming out of the second intermission with a 3-2 lead.

The Pens tied it at 2-2 by turning up the pressure and making a concerted effort to play faster. With the puck nearly 200 feet away from the Flyers' goal, Kris Letang made a long pass from deep in the zone to Tyler Kennedy, who was set up in the neutral zone. Kennedy posted up against Braydon Coburn and redirected the puck to Jordan Staal as he went streaking past. Stall carried it into an open zone with room to rip a shot over the glove of Ilya Bryzgalov. The goal was Staal's sixth of the series, coming off a hat-trick in Game 3 and a two-goal game in Game 4. It was almost the exact same shot Staal put past Sergei Bobrovsky just two nights ago. Video of the Game 5 goal below:

Pittsburgh would add another goal and take their first lead of the night a little more than three minutes after Staal's score. Kennedy rifled a slap shot past Bryzgalov, catching the Flyers on at the end of a long shift. A lane opened up as they Flyers tried to change, and Kennedy filled it and buried it in the top left corner of the net. Video of the goal below:

Marc-Andre Fleury was solid in the second period, with a couple impressive kick saves to hold the Flyers at two. The Pens will look to ride their netminder over the final 20 minutes to get their second straight win of the series.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyersfan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Philadelphia Leads 2-1 At 1st Intermission

Battling for their playoffs lives, the Pittsburgh Penguins are looking for their first home win in their first round series against the rival Flyers. Philadelphia took a 2-1 lead into the first intermission, after a back-and-forth twenty minutes of power play goals.

The Penguins looked frustrated throughout the first period, committing some unnecessary penalties in a game they knew would be called close. The Flyers opened the scoring with a Matt Carle power play goal, his first of the series. Carle threw a wrister to the front of the crease and the puck found its way past Marc-Andre Fleury and into the back of the net. The goal came in the last five seconds of the man-advantage as Philly made one last push into the zone and created some traffic in front of Fleury. Video of the goal:

The Pens would then pull even three minutes later on their second power play of the period with Steve Sullivan tallying his second goal of the series. Kris Letang, who manned the top of the box on the power play, fed Sullivan with a pretty pass to the weak side, and Sullivan buried it in an empty net before Ilya Bryzgalov could slide over across the crease. As the puck rotated, Pittsburgh's James Neal came streaking into the center of the ice, where Letang gave him a look and forced Bryzgalov to hesitate for a second, opening up the opportunity for Sullivan to bury it. Video of Sullivan's power play goal below:

But the Flyers would counter quickly after the Pens committed a couple silly penalties. With Evgeni Malkin already in the box, Craig Adams took a bad slashing penalty and it didn't take long for the Flyers to make the Pens pay. Philly won the face-off to start the 5-on-3, and then Kimmo Timonen made a nice skip pass over the stick of Brooks Orpik and Scott Hartnell immediately put it in the back of the net, less than ten seconds into the two-man advantage. It was Hartnell's first goal of the playoffs, after a prolific season of power play goals. It was the 11th power play score of the series for Philadelphia. Video of the quick strike below:

Dan Bylsma will look to limit his club's frustrating penalties and pull back to even in the second period. Bryzgalov has shown he can disappear, so the Pens bounce back quickly.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins: Paul Martin Out For Game 5

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Paul Martin has been ruled out of Friday's Game 5 against the Philadelphia Flyers according to a post on the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette website. Martin has missed the last two games due to an undisclosed injury.

Penguins head coach Dan Bylsma has not yet announced if he will dress only seven defensive players for Friday's game. Bylsma has said that he is not a fan of dressing only seven, but he did just that in Pittsburgh's win in Game 4.

Game 5 is scheduled to begin at 7:30 tonight and is being nationally broadcast on NBC Sports Network. Root Sports will televise the game in the Pittsburgh area.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyersfan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

Video: Philadelphia Flyers Fan Takes Out Frustrations On Mechanical Bull After Loss To Penguins

2012 NHL Playoffs, Flyers Vs. Penguins: Game 5 Preview

The Pittsburgh Penguins extended their playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers with a pretty convincing win on Wednesday night, but the only thing they've earned for sure is another elimination game on Friday night. The game starts at 7:30 pm ET and can be seen on the NBC Sports Network.

The Penguins certainly turned a lot of heads with their 10-goal performance in Game 4, but can they duplicate those results in another elimination game? They likely won't be able to score at nearly the same rate in Game 5, so Marc-Andre Fleury needs to be a lot better in this game then he has so far this series if he wants to get a win. The Flyers still scored three goals in that game, which is good enough to win a lot of games (well, maybe not in this series). Fleury needs to be much better if the Penguins are going to stay alive, again.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

2012 NHL Playoffs: Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 4 Tops TV Ratings

NHL Playoffs 2012: Arron Asham Surprised By Four-Game Suspension

Pittsburgh Penguins forward Arron Asham spoke publicly on his suspension for the first time with Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Asham said that he was surprised with the suspension by the NHL and compared himself to another player suspended recently, Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom.

Asham, on his 4-game suspension: "I was surprised by the number of games. I thought (Nicklas) Backstrom's was a lot worse."

— Dave Molinari (@MolinariPG) April 19, 2012

He thinks that what Backstrom did was worse than what he did? Its a good thing that the NHL is so open with their decision making that they post these videos explaining the rationale behind the suspensions.

Asham:

Backstrom:

It appears that what Asham did was much more egregious than what Backstrom did.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers: Reaction To Game 4 Pittsburgh Beatdown

The Pittsburgh Penguins faced elimination when they went into Game 4 against the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday night, but when the final bell rang, they had earned a stunning 10-3 victory to bring the series back to Pittsburgh for a Game 5. The Penguins still have a long way to go before we can consider them "back" in this series. But as the guys over at PensBurgh point out, the ridiculous nature of the final score might just strike some fear in the hearts of the Flyers.

But you give a team some life, some hope, some confidence and it can be a dangerous thing. The Pens don't have to look at it at winning four games in a row, right now they just have to come out on Friday night and play like they did tonight. With Bryz and Bob very shaky, and the Flyers defense every bit as bad tonight as the Pens defense was earlier in the series, questions have to be in their heads.

The Penguins still need to win two more games (one back in Philadelphia) to force a Game 7 in Pittsburgh. But after the scoring display they put out on Wednesday, they might have the Flyers thinking about it as a possibility. And that doubt could help the Penguins gain some confidence as well.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Pittsburgh Picks Up 10-4 Win

The Pittsburgh Penguins scored a total of nine goals in the first two periods against the Philadelphia Flyers, taking a 9-4 lead into the final period. The Penguins seemingly took their foot off the gas however, picking up juste one goal in the final period. Evgeni Malkin picked up goal, giving the Penguins double-digit goals for the game and a 10-4 lead.

In a clear rebound from their embarrassing 8-4 loss in the previous game, the Penguins avoid the sweep by the Flyers. The Penguins will host the Flyers once again on Friday for Game 5, and it should prove to by a tense one. In the game on Wednesday night, the two teams combined for 100 penalty minutes. The Flyers had 64, at one point having as many penalty minutes as minutes played, while the Penguins picked up 36.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Jordan Staal Picks Up Hat Trick As Pens Take

The Pittsburgh Penguins picked up a 4-3 lead near the end of the first period in a period that was a torrent of goals. The rush of goals didn't end there and continued in the second period. The Penguins added to their lead with a power-play goal by Kris Letang to push the score to 5-3.

The Penguins obviously wanted redemption for their 8-4 loss to the Flyers in Game 3, so they continued to attack and pour on the goals. Jordan Staal picked up his second goal of the game on a power-play goal which was followed up by another power-play goal by Steve Sullivan. With the three goals in the second period, it pushed the Penguins lead to 7-4.

Pittsburgh continued to pour on the goals, adding two more to push the score to 9-4 including Jordan Staal picking up a hat trick with his third goal of the night and the second of the period.

The game has gotten out of hand as the Flyers have 40 penalty minutes so far in the game. The exact number of minutes played thus far.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Pittsburgh Leads 4-3 After Sloppy First Period

Game Four of the playoff series between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Phildelphia Flyers got off to a quick start when Claude Giroux scored on a power-play with just over a minute into the game. The Flyers took the early 1-0 lead, but the Penguins were able to quickly answer back and tie the game on a Evgeni Malkin goal.

Not too much longer after the Penguins tied the game they took the lead on a power-play goal by Matt Niskanen gave the Penguins a 2-1 lead. The goal was assisted by Sidney Crosby and Steve Sullivan, as Niskanen put the puck in the net from a good ways out.

As expected, the game is high tempo to open up the game. The Penguins found themselves in a familiar situation however, holding an early lead only to see it evaporate quickly. The Flyers were able to pick up back to back power-play goals. The first one was by Kimmo Timonen followed up by Jakub Voracek to give the Flyers a 3-2 lead.

The Penguins answered once again to tie up the game as Evgeni Malkin picked up his second goal of the game, this time assisted by Sidney Crosby. In a series that has had a ridiculous amount of goals, the Penguins weren't finished as Jordan Staal picked up a goal giving the Pens a 4-3 lead.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers: Pittsburgh Looks To Avoid Sweep In Game 4

The Pittsburgh Penguins' season has reached the brink. After falling behind 3-0 to the Philadelphia Flyers in their first round Playoff series, the Penguins must now go into hostile territory in Philadelphia and steal a win to move the series back to Pittsburgh for a potential Game 5. The game starts at 7:30 pm ET and can be found on the NBC Sports Network.

The series has not been short on goals, but the Penguins have lost the ability to stop the other team from scoring. The Penguins averaged just 2.7 goals against per game during the regular season, but the Flyers have been able to score an incredible 20 goals in the first three games of the series. The Penguins are putting up enough goals to win these games, but the defense, as well as Marc Andre-Fleury, need to step up if the Pens want to extend their season.

The Penguins have made a small roster move in advance of what could be the last game of their season, recalling 20-year-old defenseman Simon Despres from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. This has led to speculation that Despres is being brought up to replace Paul martin, whose availability for the game on Wednesday is in question.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Sidney Crosby Photoshop On Philadelphia Daily News Cover

Sidney Crosby Should Embrace The Role Of Villain

Arron Asham Suspended 4 Games For Cross-Check On Brayden Schenn

The NHL's Department of Player Safety issued a four-game suspension to the Pittsburgh Penguins' Arron Asham late Tuesday night. The suspension is punishment for a brutal cross-check by Asham to the throat of the Philadelphia Flyers' Brayden Schenn in the ugly first period of Game 3 on Sunday. Asham was immediately tossed from the game. Shanahan provided a video elaborating on his reasoning for the four-game suspension:

Asham joins Craig Adams and James Neal as three Penguins who will be out for Game 4 because of disciplinary sanctions stemming from Game 3.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

James Neal Suspended 1 Game For 3rd Period Hits In Game 3

The fallout from Pittsburgh's ugly Game 3 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers continued on Tuesday night, when the NHL and Brendan Shanahan handed out suspensions to both James Neal and Arron Asham. Neal was suspended for Game 4, a penalty for his hits on Sean Couturier and Claude Giroux in the same shift in the third period on Sunday. Shanahan delivered his rationale for the one-game suspension in a video review released to the public:

With Penguins on the ropes down 3-0, Neal's loss is a huge blow to their chances to get a win in Philly and start a potential series comeback.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs: Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 3 Reaction From Philadelphia

Although the Philadelphia Flyers are up 3-0 in their series with the Pittsburgh Penguins, their fans are less than happy with the antics pulled by the Penguins during Game 3. Here is Flyers' fans' frustration, as expressed by Broad Street Hockey.

I've lost all respect for the Pittsburgh Penguins organization today. I used to hate them, but in hating them, I respected them, especially the way their organization has handled things over the last six to seven years. Now? What a joke. There's no respect there at all. Let's sweep these bastards on Wednesday.

In past years, the Penguins were ones to blame the Flyers for goonery (and rightfully so). The Penguins damaged their credibility in being one of the franchises that leads the fight against cheap shots in the NHL with their display on Sunday.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 3: Pittsburgh Embarassed In 8-4 Loss

The Pittsburgh Penguins hit rock bottom Sunday afternoon, and are now on the brink of their second consecutive exit in the first round of the playoffs, suffering an 8-4 loss at the hands of the Philadelphia Flyers Sunday.

The Penguins were keeping things close, trailing 3-2 after one period, and 6-4 after two, however the lack of defensive play kept the Penguins from making a comeback. The Flyers added goals by Claude Giroux and Maxim Talbot to add exclamation points to the victory.

The Penguins were able to outshoot the Flyers 35-34, but Philadelphia took advantage of their opportunities more, making the Pittsburgh defense look silly at times.

Marc-Andre Fleury continued to struggle mightily, allowing 6 goals on 28 shots faced. He was replaced at the start of the third period by Brent Johnson, who didn't fare much better.

The contest was marred by constant fighting, resulting in not one, but two full-fledged brawls. All in all, 148 penalty minutes were dished out in the game.

The Flyers hold a commanding 3-0 series lead and are one win away from eliminating the Penguins. Game 4 is will be played Wednesday in Philadelphia. Face off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

VIDEO: Penguins Vs. Flyers Brawl Round 2

The third period of the Pittsburgh Penguins-Philadelphia Flyers game was going smoothly until this hit by James Neal caused tensions to spill over again.

via assets.sbnation.com

What happened as a result? The video speaks for itself.

The fight resulted in ejections and an instigation penalty, which could lead to league discipline against head coach Dan Bylsma. When the dust settled, the two teams played the final five minutes, with the Flyers winning 8-4 and taking a 3-0 lead in the series.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

VIDEO, Penguins Vs. Flyers: Marc-Andre Fleury Replaced By Brent Johnson, Results Still The Same

Looking for a spark going into the 3rd period, Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Dan Bylsma yanked goalie Marc-Andre Fleury for backup Brent Johnson. It made no difference, as the defensive breakdowns continued allowing Flyer Claude Giroux to score a goal on the first shot Johnson faced.

The defensive and goalie play by the Penguins has been frustrating to say the least, as this goal shows just how bad it has been during the season. The Flyers hold a 7-4 lead in the third period and look to be well on their way to a 3-0 series lead over the Penguins.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 3: Pittsburgh PK Struggles Continue, Pens Trail 6-4 After Two Periods

After a shaky first period, the Penguins were able to regain their focus and get back into the game against the Philadelphia Flyers, however, they still trail 6-4 after two periods.

James Neal was able to cut the Penguins' deficit to 4-3 with 9:29 left in the period.

The Flyers went back up by two goals shortly after when Matt Read took advantage of the lackluster penalty kill of the Penguins to fire this shot past Fleury with 5:43 to go in the second.

The Penguins got back within a goal minutes later when a lucky bounce through Flyers goalie Ilya Bryzgalov and right to the stick of Jordan Staal.

Here is a closer look of the puck going through Bryzgalov.

via assets.sbnation.com

Pittsburgh once again found themselves in the penalty box late in the period and Wayne Simmonds made them pay with this goal with just 45 seconds left in the period.

The Flyers are just 20 minutes away from taking a commanding 3-0 lead in the series.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

Penguins Vs. Flyers: Emotions Run High In First Period, Philadelphia Leads 3-2

The Philadelphia Flyers had no problem continuing their dominance over the Pittsburgh Penguins in the beginning of Game 3, as they hold a 3-2 lead after one period.

For the third straight game, the Penguins were able to get an early goal when Jordan Staal scored his first goal of the playoffs.

The Flyers then seized control of the game, when Max Talbot was able to squeak a rebound past Marc-Andre Fleury to tie the game. The Flyers then quickly added two more goals, both from Danny Briere.

The Penguins answered when James Neal scored his first goal of the playoffs at 15:37.

The Flyers answered yet again when just 23 seconds later Matt Read made it 4-2.

Emotions have run high, with the Pens showing frustration. Kris Letang and Kimmo Timonen being ejected for their fighting. Arron Asham was also ejected for a high cross check. A total of 72 penalty minutes were dished out in the first period. You can check out video of the antics HERE.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

VIDEO: Penguins-Flyers Fight And Arron Asham-Brayden Schenn Hit

It was a matter of time before emotions spilled over in the series between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers. In the first period of Game 3, an obviously frustrated Penguins team began to take it out on their opposition including this brawl that saw Kris Letang and Kimmo Timonen ejected and sent Sidney Crosby to the box for five minutes.

The Penguins didn't help matters when Arron Asham laid this illegal cross-check and punch on a helpless Brayden Schenn.

via assets.sbnation.com

A total of 72 penalty minutes were dished out in the first period alone.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 3: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Pittsburgh Penguins head to Philadelphia on Sunday for Game 3 of their 2012 Eastern Conference opening round playoff series, hoping the road treats them better than the friendly confines of CONSOL Energy Center. Pittsburgh is in an 0-2 series hole after blowing 2-0 leads in both Games 1 and 2 to the Flyers, and now must win at least one game at Wells Fargo Center to send the series back to Pittsburgh.

Here is what you need to know for Sunday's Game 3 matchup:

Game Date & Time: Saturday, April 15, 3:00 p.m. EST

Location: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA

Television Coverage: NBC

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs: Complete Schedule For Sunday's Games

The 2012 NHL Playoffs are now officially in full swing, with today's Penguins versus Flyers matchup being the highlight of Sunday's action. In case that's not enough on-ice excitement for hockey fans, the rest of Sunday's slate should not disappoint.

Here is the complete schedule for NHL Playoff games to be played on Sunday:

Predators Vs. Red Wings: 12:00 p.m. EST, NBC

Penguins Vs. Flyers: 3:00 p.m. EST, NBC

Devils Vs. Panthers: 7:30 p.m. EST, NBCSN

Canucks Vs. Kings: 10:30 p.m. EST, NBCSN

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 3: Pittsburgh Travels To Philadelphia Desperate For A Win

After two crushing losses on home ice, the Pittsburgh Penguins look to regroup when they travel to Philadelphia to take on the Flyers in Game 3 of the their first round 2012 Eastern Conference playoff series.

Pittsburgh blew a 3-0 lead in Game 1 of the series, then followed that up by blowing leads of 2-0 and 3-1 in Game 2 on their way to an 0-2 deficit in the series with the hated Flyers.

The Penguins will need to once again jump out early on the Flyers if they want to make this series competitive. Pittsburgh has outscored Philadelphia 6-1 in the first period in the series. Marc-Andre Fleury will also have to play better between the pipes for Pittsburgh to win. The Penguins netminder has allowed 11 goals on 45 shots in the first two games of the series.

The Penguins can also take solace in knowing the Flyers have not exactly been dominant at home this season. Philadelphia brings a rather pedestrian 22-13-6 record at Wells Fargo Center into their first playoff home game of 2012.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs: Complete Schedule For Saturday's Games

The 2012 NHL Playoffs are now in full swing and though the Pittsburgh Penguins are down 0-2 to the Philadelphia Flyers and off on Saturday, there is still plenty of playoff action going on starting with a 3 p.m. matchup between the Washington Capitals and the Boston Bruins.

Here is the complete schedule for NHL Playoff games to be played on Saturday.

Capitals Vs. Bruins: 3 p.m. EST, NBC

Senators Vs. Rangers: 7 p.m. EST, NBCSN

Sharks Vs. Blues: 7:30 p.m. EST, CNBC

Blackhawks Vs. Coyotes: 10 p.m. EST, NBCSN

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Reaction

The Pittsburgh Penguins have dug themselves a very deep hole in their opening series of the 2012 Eastern Conference Playoffs with the Philadelphia Flyers. Despite jumping out to two goal leads in both Game 1 and Game 2, the Penguins find themselves in an 0-2 series hole after losing 8-5 to the Flyers on Friday night. To make matters worse, Pittsburgh has lost both of these games on the friendly ice of CONSOL Energy Center. Panic is assuredly setting in amongst Penguins fans, but alas, Dave Molinari of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette says there is reason for hope:

While the Penguins clearly are in a perilous spot, there are precedents for teams winning a best-of-seven after dropping the first two games on home ice. The list even includes one featuring these two franchises.

In 2000, the Flyers lost the first two games of a second-round meeting with the Penguins, then ran off four consecutive victories to advance to the conference final.

The Penguins now must travel to Philadelphia for Game 3, with their playoff hopes on life support. If Pittsburgh wants to play another game at CONSOL, they will need to turn the tide on the Flyers and win on the road in Philadelphia.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Philadelphia Adds 4 More Goals In 3rd Period, Takes Game 2

The Pittsburgh Penguins fell into an 0-2 hole on Friday night in their first-round series against the rival Philadelphia Flyers. As they did in Game 1, the Pens jumped on Philly in the first period but the Flyers stormed back, finishing with eight goals and two hat tricks. The Flyers never lead until the mid-way point of the final period, but then turned it up over the final ten minutes to run away with an 8-5 win.

After losing momentum in the second period, Pittsburgh quickly broke a 4-4 tie just a minute into the third when Tyler Kennedy scored his second goal of the series. Trailing a rush into the zone, Kennedy came skating to center ice from the right wing and took a pass from Matt Cooke. He quickly flipped a backhand past Ilya Bryzgalov for the 5-4 lead, getting the crowd back in it. Video of the goal below:

But that lead would last only 17 seconds, as Sean Couturier scored his second goal of the night. The goal was setup by a brutal turnover by Pens defenseman Ben Lovejoy, who tried to clear the puck with a skip pass across the ice. But Courturier made a great individual play and knocked it down with his stick. He took it the other way, catching the Pens' defense flat-footed and going one-on-one with Fleury to tie it up:

Former Penguin Jaromir Jagr then put the Flyers in front for the first time, scoring nine minutes into the third period to put Philly in up 6-5. Jagr took a rebound off a Pavel Kubina shot, which ricocheted off Marc-Andre Fleury right out to the stick of Jagr who was slowly skating by the crease. Jagr then quickly spun around and ripped a low shot that beat Fleury on the left side of the crease. Video of the goal below:

Courturier would remove all doubt, when he completed the hat trick with a little less than two minutes remaining to hand Philly a two-goal lead. Claude Giroux, who set a Flyer franchise record with six points, would join Courturier with a hat trick, dumping one into an empty net in the final seconds.

It was a tough loss, to say the least. The Flyers stormed back again from a multi-goal deficit and controlled play throughout the final 20 minutes to take the 2-0 series lead. Dan Bylsma and company have little time to regroup, as Game 3 is set for Sunday afternoon in what will be a raucous WellsFargo Center in Philly.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Philadelphia Storms Back Again, Evens It At 4-4

The quick pace between the Flyers and Penguins continued in the second period of Game 2 on Friday night, as Philly tallied three goals to tie it up at 4-4 heading into the second intermission. Philadelphia converted early on special teams to get back in it and quickly cut into the Pittsburgh two-goal advantage.

Claude Giroux has wreaked havoc in Game 2, setting up the Flyers' first chance on a shorthanded breakaway which led to a Maxime Talbot goal. In the second period, he quickly pulled Philly within one goal, scoring his first goal of the playoffs with a power play strike. Giroux's goal was set up by a pretty pass from Jakub Voracek, who dropped it back through the legs of the Pittsburgh defense. Giroux quickly buried it before Pittsburgh's defense could react:

Giroux then added another goal, pulling Philly even yet again and bringing back nightmare visions for Pens' fans from Wednesday night. This time, it was Giroux again on special teams, combining with Talbot on the penalty kill as they did in the first for a shortie. Giroux brought the puck into the zone again, centering it to Talbot and streaking to the middle of the ice. Talbot then dropped it off and Giroux fired a rocket past Marc-Andre Fleury from almost the same spot where he scored his first goal just six minutes earlier:

Pittsburgh would answer momentarily when Chris Kunitz put the Pens back in front with his second goal of the night. As was the case with his first goal, Kunitz was there to take advantage of a James Neal play. He swooped in from the left wing to slap home a big rebound that Ilya Bryzgalov gave up, putting the Pens up 4-3. Video of the Kunitz goal below:

But Philly would even it up before the period was out. Pittsburgh scored with just seconds remaining in the first period but in the second it was the Flyers' turn. Sean Couturier skated in from the left wing and dunked in a rebound with just three seconds remaining to tie it up at 4-4. It was an unfortunate bounce for the Pens, but Couturier was there to capitalize on the chance:

Buckle your seatbealts as we're in for yet another dramatic third period between these two rivals.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Pittsburgh Scores 3 In The 1st, Leads By 2

The Pittsburgh Penguins are looking to rebound from their gut-wrenching overtime loss on Wednesday, after blowing a three-goal lead against the rival Flyers in Game 1. Dan Bylsma's club came out fast and furious in the first period, controlling the action in the Flyers' zone. The Penguins started with a flurry, getting on the board first just 15 seconds into the game when Sidney Crosby ripped a shot past Ilya Bryzgalov to further put the crowd in a lather. It was Crosby's second playoff goal, and the captain sliced into the zone, working with Steve Sullivan on a perfect give-and-go. Video of the Crosby goal below:

The Pens then took a two-goal lead on the power play at the mid-point of the first, with Chris Kunitz slamming it home in front after a great effort by James Neal. Kunitz took a perfect feed from Neal, who snaked through the Philadelphia defense, faked a shot, and then dropped it off in front with the defense and goaltender out of position. Video of the Kunitz goal below:

Philadelphia would answer soon thereafter, however, as former Penguin Maxime Talbot came back to haunt Consol Energy Center with his first playoff goal on a shorthanded breakaway. All-Star and point-machine Claude Giroux snagged a turnover and beat the defense down the ice, and as everyone went tumbling past Marc-Andre Fleury, Talbot was there to clean up the rebound in front:

But the up-and-down period would not end there, as much maligned defenseman Paul Martin would put the Pens back in front by two with less than 20 seconds remaining in the period. The goal was set up by another beautiful play from Crosby, who brought the puck into the zone and dropped it off perfectly for a trailing Martin. With lots of traffic in front, Martin was able to sneak one past Bryzgalov for the third goal of the period. Video below:

Pittsburgh will look to keep up the pace in the second period, continuing the pressure against Bryzgalov and holding the multi-goal lead, which they were unable to do the other night.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Penguins Vs. Flyers Game 2: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Pittsburgh Penguins want to even the series against the Philadelphia Flyers. Can the defense and the power play improve enough to tie the series at one game a piece?

2012 NHL Playoffs: Flyers Vs. Penguins, Game 2 Preview

The Pittsburgh Penguins were on the wrong end of a 4-3 overtime score in Game 1 against the Philadelphia Flyers, which makes the sec on game of the series on Friday a crucial win for them. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. and can be found on the NBC Sports Network.

The Penguins got out to a very strong start in their first game against the Flyers on Wednesday, but they couldn't hold on to their three goal lead and the Flyers came all the way back and scored the game winner in overtime. The Penguins did a lot of good things in that game, and they can't forget that. They've shown that they have the ability to outplay this Flyers team, and they really need to do that on Friday to even the series.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Reaction: Penguins Unable To Hold On To Early Lead

The Pittsburgh Penguins lost their playoff opener to the rival Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday night, and while the loss certainly stings, it wasn't a completely lost performance. The Penguins started off very hot in this game, but the Flyers gradually wore down the Penguins defense and completed their comeback with a game-winning goal in overtime. Our Penguins blog PensBurgh breaks it down.

The Penguins came out on fire Wednesday night in the first game of their opening round playoff match-up against the Philadelphia Flyers. Sidney Crosby, Tyler Kennedy scored goals in rapid fire succession and Pascal Dupuis added a cherry on top near the end of the opening frame, lending the hosts a dominant 3-0 lead by the end of the first period. Alas, it was only a loan. Things slowly, gradually fell apart. A sneaky Danny Briere goal here, another there, a gradually eroding defense all over the place.

That was not a very good start to the series for the Penguins, but there is still a lot of hockey to be played, and if they can just capture the way they played to start this game and come out swinging in the next game, they'll have a good chance to split their home games and head out to Philadelphia with a little bit of momentum.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Final Score: Philadelphia Completes The 4-3 Comeback Overtime Win To Take Game 1

The Pittsburgh Penguins jumped out to a 3-0 lead on the Philadelphia Flyers in the first period of the opening game of the playoff series between the two bitter rivals. The Flyers weren't just going to lay down and die in the first game of the playoff series and slowly battled back, eating at the Penguins lead. The Flyers picked up a goal in the second period and then two more in the third period, including a power play goal that sent the game into overtime.

By then, it was anyone's game and the Flyers had all of the momentum. That momentum carried into the overtime period as Jakub Voracek picked up the game-winning goal, completing the Flyers' come back.

Voracek jetted in from under the net and slapped the rebound into the net for the game-winning goal. The Flyers finished up their rally and now lead the series 1-0. The two teams will face off again on Friday in Game Two of the series.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Score Update: Philadelphia Storms Back To Tie Game 3-3 Headed To Overtime

Entering the third period, the Pittsburgh Penguins offense and constant shots on goal had lead them to a 3-1 lead, but the Philadelphia Flyers continue to fight on through the third perdio. Danny Briere picked up his second goal of the game midway through the final period, cutting the Penguins lead to just 3-2.

Brooks Orpik picked up two-minutes for interference and the Flyers could smell the blood in the water and attacked on the ensuing power play. Brayden Schenn was able to take advantage of the power play, picking up a goal assisted by Scott Hartnell and Jaromir Jagr to tie the game up at 3-3.

The third period ended with a 3-3 time, sending the game into overtime.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Score Update: Philadelphia Cuts Into The Leader, Pittsburgh Still Leads 3-1

The Pittsburgh Penguins jumped on the Philadelphia Flyers early in the first period, taking a 3-0 lead into the firs intermission. The Flyers didn't give up however and were able to pick up a goal early in the second period to cut into the Penguins lead. Danny Briere returned for the playoffs, coming back from a back injury sustained earlier in the month against the Penguins and picked up the goal assisted by Brayden Schenn.

Despite cutting into the Penguins lead, the Flyers are still being outshot by nearly a two-to-one margin in the game. Heading into the third period, the Penguins lead 3-1.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Score Update: Pittsburgh Leads 3-0 After First Period

The Pittsburgh Penguins got the early jump on their bitter rivals, the Philadelphia Flyers, on Wednesday night in the first game of their playoff series. The Penguins came out aggressive early on against the Flyers and it paid off with an early Sidney Crosby goal to take a 1-0 lead in the game.

You can see the long shot saved by Ilya Bryzgalov, but Sidney Crosby was right there to slap in the rebound for the early goal.

The Penguins weren't done with just that goal however, as Tyler Kennedy picked up another goal for the Penguins. Pittsburgh got a two-on-one look as they raced down the ice as Jordan Staal passed the puck over to Kennedy for the score to put the Penguins up over the Flyers 2-0 in the first period.

The Penguins offense has been all over the Flyers early on in the game and seemed to overwhelm Philadelphia. The two goals weren't enough for the Penguins as Pascal Dupuis added a third goal for Pittsburgh in the first period. Bryzgalov just couldn't seem to find the puck before it made it's way into the net.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Flyers Vs. Penguins Lineup, Game 1: Matt Niskanen Out For Pittsburgh, Danny Briere, Nicklas Grossmann Back For Philadelphia

With Game 1 on the NHL playoff series between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers, the Flyers will get a boost to their lines with the return of Danny Briere and Nicklas Grossmann to the lineup. Both players missed time towards the end of the season for Philadelphia, but will be ready and playing on Wednesday evening for the Flyers.

Briere missed a week towards the end of the season with a back injury he suffered at the hands of Penguins Joe Vitale. A brawl ensued after the hit between the two rivals, so there is sure to be some animosity early in the series. Grossmann was also injured by Vitale in an accidental knee-on-knee hit and the injury was originally feared as serious, but Grossmann will be ready for the playoffs and will wear a knee brace.

On the other hand for Pittsburgh, Matt Niskanen missed the morning skate and will be out of the lineup.

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs: Complete Schedule For Wednesday Games

The 2012 NHL Playoffs get started on Wednesday night with three games. Two from the Western Conference and of course the series opening game between your Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers. Here is the complete NHL Playoff schedule for Wednesday night.

Flyers Vs. Penguins: 7:30 pm EST, NBC Sports Network

Red Wings Vs. Predators: 8 pm EST, CNBC

Kings Vs. Canucks: 10:30 pm EST, NBC Sports Network

We'll have plenty more on all these games on SB Nation Pittsburgh, so keep it locked to this StoryStream. For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

Penguins Vs. Flyers: Game Time, TV Schedule And More

The 2012 NHL Playoffs get underway on Wednesday with three games including the opening game in the series between the Penguins and the Flyers. It is the only series in the Eastern Conference that will get started on Wednesday, so they will be the early game and kick off the Playoffs. These two teams have already played twice in the past ten days, with each team earning a win towards the end of the Season. The Penguins won 4-2 in the season ending game on Saturday.

Here is all the information you need to find this game tonight.

Game Date & Time: Wed April 11th, 7:30 PM EST

Location: CONSOL Energy Center, Pittsburgh, PA

Television Coverage: NBC Sports Network

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.

Penguins Vs. Flyers Playoff Preview: The Key Matchups

These are the key matchups to watch out for during the Penguins and Flyers' first-round series.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Penguins Without Matt Cooke And Matt Niskanen

The Pittsburgh Penguins sent tough guy Steve MacIntyre back to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton ahead of their opening round playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers, according to Shelly Anderson of the Post-Gazette. That move comes as the Pens saw a pair of injured players return to the ice for practice on Monday, while the status of others, including Matt Niskanen, is still up in the air.

Wingers James Neal and Steve Sullivan were on the ice for practice Monday morning. Both players missed the final two games of the regular season. Winger Matt Cooke and Niskanen, a defenseman, were not skating with the team at the Consol Energy Center.

The Post-Gazette speculated that Cooke could be getting an extra day of rest ahead of the playoffs. Even less is known about the status of Niskanen, who took a crushing blow from Boston last week. His status for the start of the series with the Flyers is unknown.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

NHL Playoffs Schedule And Bracket 2012: Penguins Vs. Flyers Begins April 11

The Pittsburgh Penguins closed out the season at 51-25-6, good enough for the number four seed in the 2012 Eastern Conference Playoffs. The NHL has released the first round schedule, and the Penguins will face their intrastate rival Philadelphia Flyers. This is a heated match up for both fans and players; with the last game between the two teams ending in a brawl.

The first round kicks off Wednesday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m. The full schedule is:

Wednesday, April 11 at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. - NBC Sports Network, TSN

Friday, April 13 at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. - NBC Sports Network, TSN

Sunday, April 15 at Philadelphia, 3:00 p.m. - NBC, TSN

Wednesday, April 18 at Philadelphia, 7:30 p.m. - NBC Sports Network, TSN

Then, If necessary:

Friday, April 20 at Pittsburgh, 7:30 p.m. - NBC Sports Network, TSN

Sunday April 22 at Philadelphia, Time TBD, Network TBD

Tuesday April 24 at Pittsburgh, Time TBD, Network TBD

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals. And don't forget to check out SB Nation on YouTube:

2012 NHL Playoffs: Pittsburgh Penguins Take On Philadelphia Flyers

The 2012 Eastern Conference playoffs have finally arrived, and the hockey gods have delivered a dream matchup in round one, pitting the Pittsburgh Penguins against the Philadelphia Flyers. Pittsburgh and Philadelphia met twice in the last week of the regular season, with the game seven days ago ending in a brawl and both coaches looking to go at each other.

Saturday's 4-2 Pittsburgh victory in the season finale for both teams saw Penguins star Evgeni Malkin net his 50th goal of the season, becoming just the ninth Pittsburgh player to score 50 goals in a season. Malkin ended the year tops in the league with 109 points.

Pittsburgh earned the No. 4 seed in the East, and will have home-ice advantage against the No. 5 seed Flyers.

For all the latest news and analysis on the Penguins, visit PensBurgh. If you are a Flyers fan, make sure to stop by Broad Street Hockey. Still not enough hockey for you? Make sure to visit the SB Nation NHL Hub page for all the latest news on every team in the NHL down the stretch run and on the road to the Stanley Cup Finals.