This easily ranks as the most thrilling game of the Pittsburgh Penguins season to date. Although I typically root for wins in regulation, witnessing a 12-round shootout that culminates with the Penguins emerging victorious was an absolutely great night of Pittsburgh hockey to watch.
The Penguins narrowly secured a 4-3 victory over the Canadiens in a night marked by a historic moment for the Penguins’ captain, a game-winning goal from Jansen Harkins, and yet another standout performance by Jake Guentzel. However, the night wasn’t without its drawbacks, which I’ll delve into in this article.
Now, let’s dive into the nuanced breakdown of tonight’s game, identifying the key players and factors that shaped the outcome. We’ll examine who stepped up to the challenge and who fell short, categorizing them as winners and losers.
Winner: Jake Guentzel Keeps Showing Up
Jake Guentzel’s early season was marked by an uncharacteristic slump, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike. However, the tide has dramatically turned. Recently, Guentzel has been a force to reckon with, transforming his game into a consistent display of skill and scoring prowess.
His ability to rack up points and goals game after game has not only silenced critics but also infused a vital spark into the Penguins’ offensive line.
This resurgence isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about how Guentzel’s performance uplifts the team. His scoring streak has been a catalyst for the Penguins, igniting their offense and boosting overall team confidence.
A power-play goal last night ✅
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) December 14, 2023
A power-play goal tonight ✅
Thanks, Jake Guentzel! pic.twitter.com/TEPPGarS7H
It’s a classic case of an elite player finding his rhythm and elevating the entire squad’s play through sheer individual brilliance. In doing so, Guentzel has reasserted himself as a crucial component of the Penguins success formula.
In tonight’s faceoff with the Canadiens, Guentzel’s prowess was once again on full display. He notably scored a crucial powerplay goal in the 2nd period, his second in as many nights, which narrowed the Habs’ lead to 3-2. This came after the Penguins less-than-ideal first period.
Guentzel’s presence on the ice was formidable. He logged over 23 minutes of ice time and participated in 28 shifts, matching Sidney Crosby’s tally. His dynamic performance is a key factor in why he stands out as a winner tonight. Guentzel’s efforts were pivotal in the Penguins turnaround, contributing significantly to their second consecutive win.