Sidney Crosby addresses Pittsburgh Penguins blowing 2-0 lead in 4-3 loss to Vancouver Canucks
In a game against the Vancouver Canucks, Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins lost after leading 2-0. The Canucks scored three goals in just over a minute, which helped them win 4-3. The Penguins tried to come back in the final period, but they ended their Canadian road trip with a disappointing record of 0-3-1.
After the game, Sidney Crosby recognized that the team needs to improve and noted their effort in the third period.
“We had a good third, so try to build off of that – that urgency, that desperation. For most of the game we did a lot of good things,” Sidney Crosby said (via NHL.com).
“We got to find a way to not to allow momentum or chances to add up and pile up and make that the difference in the game, because we're working too hard to generate other chances to do good things to give it away like that.”
Sidney Crosby also talked about the need to manage momentum. He said they must avoid letting chances build up, especially after working hard to create their own scoring opportunities.
“We just can’t chase a mistake with another one,” he added (via Pittsburgh Post-Gazette). “There’s got to be a certain awareness when we do give up one. We’ve got to follow it up with a good shift or at least get the momentum back and try to counter that."
The Penguins began the game strong, leading in shots early on. Anthony Beauvillier scored by deflecting a shot from Marcus Pettersson. However, the young and talented Canucks quickly answered back, creating several scoring chances and capitalizing on the Penguins' defensive mistakes.
Sidney Crosby's Penguins struggle after Bryan Rust injury and goaltending changes
In the third period, Bryan Rust left the game after a hit, causing concerns about a lower-body injury. His absence made it more difficult for the Penguins to come back. Evgeni Malkin also had a scare when he crashed into the post after scoring a great goal, but he was able to stay in the game. Goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic mentioned the need to regroup after a tough start.
“The next 10’s going to come fast, and we’ve got to find a way to nip it in the bud right now,” Nedeljkovic said.
In a related move, Tristan Jarry has been sent to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for a conditioning stint. He showed promise with a strong performance in his first game back. Jarry's return to form is important for the Penguins, who are now 3-6-1 this season as they prepare for their next game against the Minnesota Wild.