The Devils have won the first two games in the season series against the Penguins. –Getty Images
Game Summary
The Pittsburgh Penguins were unbeaten at home in 11-consecutive games, until last night. The Devils outplayed, outskated, and ultimately beat the defending Stanley Cup champions at their arena 3 to 2.
The scoring started in the first period when Sidney Crosby put home a rebound that was redirected through the legs of Keith Kinkaid. However, just minutes later, the red-hot Kyle Palmieri beat Penguin’s goaltender Casey DeSmith with a wrist shot to even things up.
The Devils were able to grab the lead courtesy of Taylor Hall’s power-play goal (video below) in the second period. Even though the Devils were the better team for most of the second frame, Penguin’s defenseman Matt Huntwick snuck a redirection past Kinkaid to even things up once again. Stefan Noesen’s ninth goal of the season put the Devils in the lead for good. The Penguins mounted a fierce push at the end of the contest but ultimately came up short.
TAYLOR HALL GETS THE REBOUND RIGHT TO HIS STICK AND SLAMS IT HOME! DEVILS LEAD! pic.twitter.com/zsF2XjIMMX
— Hockey Daily 365 (@HockeyDaily365) February 28, 2018
Goaltender Keith Kinkaid stopped 36 of the 38 shots the Penguins threw his way to earn his 15th win of the season while Penguin’s goaltender Casey DeSmith was on the losing end of things. Both teams would finish the game with 38 shots on goal.
Forward Taylor Hall extended his historic point streak. –Getty Images
Game Notes
- Forward Taylor Hall continues to make his case as a Hart Trophy candidate. He extended his appearances with a point to 22-games and tied forward Patrik Elias for the longest point streak in Devils’ history. As Devils’ fans, we should savor every moment of this historic run.
- Newly acquired forward Michael Grabner had himself a solid night. Although he had no points to show for it, he was buzzing around the ice showing off his speed. Whether it be the breakaway in which he drew a penalty or the numerous other scoring opportunities he created, the points will start to come for the new winger.
- Goaltender Keith Kinkaid played one of his best games of the season. He boasted a .947 save percentage and made multiple vital stops toward the end of the game. With Cory Schneider’s return on the horizon, it’s good to see Kinkaid can be a viable option as a backup.
Next Devils Game: March 1st 7:30 PM @ Florida Panthers