Pittsburgh Penguins: 3 Reasons Why They Lose 3rd Period Leads

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As we venture deeper into this season, a glaring issue continues to plague the Pittsburgh Penguins: their struggle to maintain leads, particularly in the critical 3rd period.

Case in point: last night’s matchup against the Buffalo Sabres. The Penguins, comfortably ahead with a 2-0 lead, witnessed their advantage unravel in the final period. They conceded three consecutive goals, culminating in a disheartening 3-2 defeat.

This pattern of 3rd period collapses isn’t just a source of frustration for us die-hard fans; it’s painting a concerning trend that cannot be ignored any longer. In the past, the Penguins have been praised for their tenacity and ability to close games strong. However, this season tells a different story.

Statistical insights from the NHL reveal a troubling reality: the Penguins are now ranking distressingly low in 3rd-period defense, a stark deviation from their previous robust performances. Such a persistent problem signals a deeper issue at play, one that demands immediate attention and strategic adjustment from both the coaching staff and the players. It’s high time for the team to confront this challenge head-on and rediscover the resilience that once defined them.

Given these troubling 3rd period collapses, it’s crucial for the Penguins to pinpoint and address the root causes. Through a blend of statistical analysis and keen observation, I’ve identified three key areas where the team must focus its efforts to turn the tide.

3. Lack of Power Play Scoring

A less obvious yet critical factor contributing to the Penguins’ 3rd-period woes might not stand out to most, but it’s glaringly evident in the power play statistics. Last night against Buffalo, the Penguins went 0-3 on power plays, bringing their tally to a dismal 1-24 over the last nine games.

Frankly, this level of performance is unacceptable. When so many opportunities are squandered, the team misses crucial chances to pad the scoreboard and secure a comfortable lead. The root of the problem lies partially in the power play configurations.

The positioning and coordination within these lines are critical, yet the Penguins are struggling to find the right balance. Continuously experimenting with different lineups for power-play units this far into the season is a red flag.

It indicates a deeper issue within the team’s strategic approach. Searching for answers like this, especially at a critical juncture of the season, is never a good sign. It’s a clear indication that the coaching staff and players need to rethink and recalibrate their approach to capitalize on these pivotal moments in the game.

Dec 18, 2022; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan walks off the ice after the game against the Carolina Hurricanes at PNC Arena. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Mike Sullivan Can’t Figure it Out

Building on the previous point, Coach Mike Sullivan’s effectiveness in constructing lineups this season is under scrutiny, particularly with the power play.

The Penguins’ power play has grown stale, and much of this can be attributed to Sullivan’s lineup choices. His struggle extends beyond the power play; he has also had difficulty assembling a cohesive bottom six, especially at the beginning of the season. The core issue with these lineups is their predictability and the frustration they evoke among the fans.

A notable misstep was Sullivan’s decision to place Drew O’Connor on the Crosby line, a move that ultimately backfired. This decision, among others, raises questions about Sullivan’s current effectiveness, particularly when contrasted with his past success, including the Stanley Cup victories.

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While there’s no doubt about his effort, the results have been lacking, and unfortunately, that responsibility falls on him. In the high-stakes world of professional hockey, sometimes a coaching change is the catalyst a team needs to rejuvenate its strategies and morale.

It’s important to remember that coaching strategies that once brought success can become outdated. The NHL evolves, and so must a coach’s tactics. Comparing the Penguins’ current strategies with those employed during their Stanley Cup victories could reveal significant shifts in the league’s overall gameplay, necessitating a fresh coaching approach.

Another aspect to consider is player utilization. Are the Penguins’ key players being leveraged effectively in their current roles? I don’t think Erik Karlsson is being utilized correctly, and that’s something to consider.

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 22: Tristan Jarry #35 of the Pittsburgh Penguins makes a save on a shot by Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers in the second period during the game at PPG PAINTS Arena on November 22, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin Berl/Getty Images) /

1. The Pittsburgh Penguins Defensive Collapses

Suppose you pinpointed defensive collapse as the primary culprit for the Penguins’ 3rd period leads slipping away. In that case, you’ve hit the nail on the head.

This aspect is at the heart of my frustration with the team. The issues are manifold: from failed takeaways to a sluggish return on defense, from consistently losing the race to the net to a lack of physicality in crucial moments. These problems aren’t just isolated incidents; they’re symptoms of a larger defensive malaise.

Let’s break it down further:

Strategic Positioning and Anticipation: The Penguins often seem a step behind in anticipating opponents’ moves. Improving strategic positioning on the ice and fostering a more proactive defensive mindset could be key.
Physicality and Engagement: Physical engagement, particularly in the 3rd period, is essential. The Penguins need to ramp up their intensity and assertiveness in one-on-one battles and in front of the net.
Effective Communication and Teamwork: Defense is as much about communication as it is about physical skill. The team needs to work on their on-ice communication, ensuring every player is aware of their role and the positioning of their teammates.
Conditioning and Stamina: Lastly, the physical condition of the players cannot be overlooked. The team’s conditioning program should be evaluated to ensure players can maintain high energy and focus throughout the game, especially in the final period.

Addressing these defensive shortcomings could dramatically alter the team’s trajectory. It’s not just about tweaking tactics; it’s about a holistic reevaluation of the Penguins’ defensive approach. With these changes, we could see a significant turnaround in both the team’s record and the nature of discussions among the fan base.

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