Despite a start that has had ups and downs, history continues to be made by the Pittsburgh Penguins’ core group. Last Wednesday both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin solidified their future in the Hockey Hall of Fame. Sid became the tenth player in league history to surpass 1600 points while Geno joined the ranks of players who have netted 500 or more goals. Wednesday was certainly the bright spot for Pens fans in the early season. Now what else will the season hold for these two, and the rest of the Penguins?
Late last season Sidney Crosby moved past Phil Esposito into the top ten in most points. He now sits just 39 points behind Avalanche great Joe Sakic. Ninth is likely the only position that Sid can overtake this year, as it would take a juggernaut season to reach eighth place. Now eighth place will be very special for the current captain, as it will mean passing Super Mario Lemieux. This will be such a monumental night for all of Pittsburgh, and it’s hockey fans. Now for what is attainable for Crosby this year is moving into the top ten in Assists. The legend Gordie Howe is exactly 40 assists ahead right now. Being in the top ten in points and assists only will solidify his place in hockey lore.
The other big story of the night was Evgeni Malkin scoring his 500th goal, in a pretty exciting manner! Geno Machine-o has started out the season on a tear. In addition to becoming the 48th player in NHL history to net 500, he also has led the league in points for the first time since he last won the Art Ross Trophy twelve years ago. He currently is in a three-way tie for fourth with 11 points (three are tied for first with 12). If this does hold out to be Geno’s last season, he seems to be wanting to make the most of it.
Now unfortunately the successes have been overshadowed by the fact that the team is under 500 at 3-4 after getting 5 put on them in Winnipeg by the last undefeated team. Defensive and goalie struggles still plague the Penguins. Tristian Jarry has been abysmal and now is a healthy scratch with the return of Alex Nedeljkovic. The team continues a road trip for the rest of the week that brings them to Calgary, Edmonton, and Vancouver. Edmonton and Vancouver also have rough starts so maybe the Penguins can capitalize on their woes. And make the hard work of their Captain and Geno pay off!
The Morning Skate 