Just 53 seconds into the game, the Nashville Predators gained the zone and Chris Kunitz lost coverage of David Legwand (even though it’s not drawn up as his responsibility). Jordin Tootoo didn’t care who was supposed to cover Legwand and found him for a goal. Marc-Andre Fleury had no chance, but just like that he’s down 1-0.
Evgeni Malkin would strike to bury a loose puck 54 seconds into the second period to tie it up. But Cody Franson would collect Francois Bouillion’s blocked shot to make it 2-1 Nashville. Patric Hornqvist then sandwiched two Sidney Crosby goals to make it 3-3 through regulation.
Kris Letang would finish it off with the OT winner off a Crosby pass, and just like that the Pens have won their first game in Nashville since 1999.
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What Went Right:
-Sidney Crosby found enough space to get two goals and one assist. He was playing well and Shea Weber couldn't stop him.
-Turning on the gas: The score was 2-2 after two periods. The Pens got 20 shots from there on out, the Preds got eight. Guess who won.
What Went Wrong:
-Power play. 0 for 6. Yikes. They got a couple of good looks but they have to convert and they didn’t tonight.
-Fleury’s confidence. The Pens played Brent Johnson for all of the previous four wins. Fleury got in and he got hung out to dry a couple of times for goals. But he still made HUGE breakaway saves. Fleury did his job and he’s definitely going to be the guy with whom the Pens sink or swim.
Injury Report:
-Jordan Staal began limited skating last week. He should still be out for another month or so.
-Arron Asham should be back from his shoulder injury by the end of October.
-Brooks Orpik could be back next game against St. Louis, if his groin cooperates.
-Zbynek Michalek has a shoulder injury and is probably about two weeks (give or take) from being back in the lineup.