East Division Update - March 21st

The Penguins and Devils matchup was the only game in the East division today. The Pens got the win yesterday in New Jersey, and this one took place at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh. My analysis of the second half of this back-to-back below.

(Image Credit: New York Post)

Pittsburgh started off slow again in this game, but it didn't burn them this time. The Devils got a lot of early chances and even rang one of the left post on the breakaway. The Penguins struck first though, with Sidney Crosby getting the goal just five minutes into the game from the usual spot on the goal line. The Penguins would surrender the tying goal a few minutes later when New Jersey defenseman Sami Vatanen ripped one past Tristan Jarry from the point. The Devils and Penguins played pitch and catch the rest of the game, and even hit some posts, but the game remained tied at 1 through regulation. The overtime showed Pittsburghs' weaknesses with their injuries, and cost them the extra point. The Devils played with a lot of energy and speed in the extra frame, and Pittsburgh couldn't keep up, falling 2-1. The Penguins lost at home for only the third time this season and dropped only their second loss in OT all season. Pittsburgh is now 12-3-1 on home ice. Mackenzie Blackwood was excellent for New Jersey in goal, stopping 35 of 36 shots. Tristan Jarry was good too but could be blamed for not getting over quick enough on the overtime winning goal because it was a wraparound.

Scoring:

Devils: Sami Vatanen (2), Jesper Bratt (OT Winner - 2).

Penguins: Sidney Crosby (12).