Pittsburgh Penguins: Top 3 Sidney Crosby goals of the first half

Dec. 1, 2017 vs Buffalo Sabres

This goal is a great representation of a) Sid’s ability to read a play, and b) his quick release.

Notice when he pops into frame, there is zero hesitation about where he is going. There are four Sabres in their own zone, with no clear outlet for their D-man to ditch the puck. As Kuhnhackl pressures, the Buffalo defenseman forces a pass to the middle instead of retreating behind his net or dumping it off the glass on his right side.

Sid is ready and in position, and easily picks off the pass causing the Buffalo goalie to quickly adjust his position and hastily jump to the top of his crease.

Sid doesn’t dally, it’s a quick move to set up his forehand shot, which is in the back of the net in an instant. He has the puck for a solid “one Mississippi” before he hits twine.

A solid read and quick action led to that goal. Let’s look at number two, which showcases another nifty talent of Sid’s.