On Tuesday, the Pittsburgh Penguins seemed set for a significant victory over the Anaheim Ducks for nearly the entire game. However, hockey’s unpredictable nature showed as Anaheim tied the score at 3-3 with just 0.1 seconds left in regulation during a power play and ultimately won 4-3 in a shootout. Penguins goalie Arturs Silovs made 25 saves from 28 shots but faltered in the shootout. Despite a strong offensive showing from Pittsburgh, the loss left many puzzled.
The Penguins took an early lead in the first period when Noel Ashari scored right after a faceoff. The Ducks balanced the game in the second period, with goals from defenseman Jackson Lacombe and Troy Terry. Just before the second period ended, Tommy Novak, who had been in good scoring form recently, tied the game with a rebound goal. The score held through most of the third until Sidney Crosby set up Anthony Mantha for a power-play goal, giving Pittsburgh a 3-2 lead with under four minutes remaining. When Chris Kreider took a tripping penalty with 18 seconds left, Pittsburgh looked set to seal the win.
But in the final moments, Beckett Sennecke of the Ducks skated into the offensive zone shorthanded, and after some confusion near the crease, the puck crossed the goal line off Erik Karlsson’s hands, tying the game. The Penguins couldn’t win in overtime, suffering their fifth shootout loss of the season. Although the Penguins had a commanding 47-28 advantage in shots, they lost valuable points, marking the seventh time in 14 games they’ve given up a lead—an ongoing issue for the team outside playoffs.
Defenseman Carlson expressed frustration, highlighting Silovs’ strong play but recognizing the game should have been a sure win. The Penguins’ veteran core—Rust, Letang, Karlsson, and Crosby—were criticized for the defensive lapse, which is particularly concerning given their experience. For the Penguins to make the playoffs, they must learn to close out games as they did earlier this season.
The contest was rough, marked by many errors from both teams, possibly due to fatigue after the Penguins’ recent travel and missed practice. Tommy Novak has been an impressive asset lately, scoring three goals and earning seven points over six games, contributing well on both ends. Penguins coach Dan Muse praised Novak’s consistent play and versatility.
The young “Kid Line” of Rutger McGroarty, Ben Kindel, and Vir Koivunen also impressed, showing great responsibility defensively and creating chances, though they are still developing a more aggressive shooting approach. The Penguins’ power play performed well in maintaining zone control but lacked the fluid movement and quick passing that once made it a lethal weapon.
Overall, Pittsburgh exhibited strong, opportunistic hockey in December, earning points against top teams despite occasional struggles. However, their inability to hold leads at critical moments remains a significant concern. The upcoming game against the Montreal Canadiens is crucial and feels more like a must-win as the Penguins look for a positive turnaround. Meanwhile, goaltender Tristan Jarry is reportedly attracting trade interest from two NHL teams.
Fan Take: This loss underscores the Penguins’ ongoing struggle to maintain momentum in tight games—something that could define their playoff fate this season. For hockey fans, seeing such a talented team falter at key moments highlights the sport’s unpredictability and the thin margins between victory and defeat.
