Sidney Crosby’s stellar performance, including a goal and three assists, led the Pittsburgh Penguins to a decisive 7-3 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers at PPG Paints Arena. Crosby’s contributions brought his NHL assist total to 1,033, tying Mario Lemieux for the most in Penguins history. Reflecting on this milestone, Crosby humbly acknowledged the achievement, emphasizing the difference in the number of games played between himself and Lemieux. His leadership and playmaking were instrumental as the Penguins extended their positive streak, winning three out of their last four games.
Rickard Rakell added a goal and two assists, while Michael Bunting scored twice to bolster the Penguins’ offense. Bryan Rust also had a goal and an assist, with key contributions from Evgeni Malkin and Erik Karlsson, who each provided two assists. Goaltender Tristan Jarry made 24 saves to secure the win. Meanwhile, the Flyers struggled defensively, pulling starting goalie Samuel Ersson after he allowed five goals on 14 shots, with Aleksei Kolosov stepping in for relief. Sean Couturier, Noah Cates, and Egor Zamula were the goal scorers for Philadelphia, who have now lost four of their last five games.
The game started with a flurry of goals in the first period. Bryan Rust opened the scoring for Pittsburgh early, and after Zamula equalized for Philadelphia, the Penguins surged ahead. Rakell, Bunting, and Philip Tomasino each scored, with Tomasino’s goal following a masterful setup from Crosby. The Flyers struggled to contain Crosby’s line and faltered on special teams, allowing two power-play goals. Flyers coach John Tortorella noted the team’s shortcomings, emphasizing the need for improvement.
Philadelphia fought back in the second period, cutting the deficit to 4-3 with goals from Cates and Couturier. The Flyers outshot the Penguins 12-5 in the frame, showing signs of resilience. However, Michael Bunting’s second goal late in the period restored a two-goal cushion for Pittsburgh, dampening Philadelphia’s comeback hopes. Despite the Flyers’ effort, the Penguins’ ability to capitalize on their chances proved decisive.
The Penguins sealed their victory in the third period with Crosby scoring an empty-net goal and Blake Lizotte adding a power-play tally in the final seconds. Crosby’s dominant performance underscored his status as one of the NHL’s all-time greats, marking his 42nd career four-point game. The Penguins and Flyers will now head into the holiday break with contrasting trajectories, preparing to resume play on December 28.
