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With top line flying high, Penguins visit Devils
The Pittsburgh Penguins’ resurgence continues, powered by their dynamic top line of Bryan Rust, Sidney Crosby, and Rickard Rakell. As the Penguins travel to Newark, N.J., for a clash with the New Jersey Devils on Saturday, all eyes will be on this high-octane trio to sustain their scoring streak.
Register Here Today!Penguins’ Top Line: A Formula for Success
In Thursday’s thrilling 5-4 overtime victory over the Nashville Predators, the Penguins’ top line was electric. Bryan Rust delivered a two-goal, two-assist performance, including the game-winner in overtime just 1:07 into the extra session. Meanwhile, Sidney Crosby snapped a 10-game goal drought with a goal and three assists, and Rickard Rakell contributed a goal and an assist to round out the line’s 10-point night.
“Hopefully, they start to go in in bunches now, but, yeah, definitely a relief to see one go in,” Crosby said of his long-awaited goal. “Just a fun way to get some momentum there.”
Rust has been on fire recently, tallying 17 points (9 goals, 8 assists) in his last 11 games, while Crosby has racked up 15 points (2 goals, 13 assists) in 12 games. Rakell’s consistent two-way play has been critical to the line’s success.
“Ricky’s been great, Sid’s been great. I’ve just been trying to do my part … we’re working off each other,” Rust said. “Once we have one good shift, we can just feel it. Obviously, Sid drives the bus … and we’re all just working together.”
Resilience and Momentum in Pittsburgh
The Penguins have gone to overtime in each of their last three games, winning two. Their recent 8-2-1 run marks a stark contrast to their early-season struggles, giving them a winning record for the first time since mid-October.
“A month ago, we probably don’t win a game like that,” Penguins coach Mike Sullivan admitted. “I just think they’re developing a certain resilience and a certain belief that if we stay with it, we can come back. We’ve just got to compete. That’s probably what I’m most proud of the group.”
The team’s newfound resilience bodes well as they gear up for the playoff push.
Devils Look to Rebound
The New Jersey Devils, on the other hand, are seeking to regain their momentum after a 4-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets ended their three-game winning streak. Despite the setback, the Devils displayed grit and determination, rallying from a three-goal deficit and threatening late.
Luke Hughes, a rising star for the Devils, scored a goal and added an assist, while Timo Meier also found the back of the net. Coach Sheldon Keefe praised the effort, particularly in the final moments.
“We have a really resilient group and obviously not the outcome that we want, but for all our guys to play 60 minutes like that, push to the very end, is a very important thing,” Hughes said.
Jack Hughes: The Devils’ Driving Force
Jack Hughes shone bright despite the loss, registering eight of his career-high 13 shot attempts in the second period alone. He assisted on Meier’s goal, extending his point streak to four games (2 goals, 5 assists).
“To me, this might have been Jack Hughes’ best game of the season,” Keefe said. “He was outstanding. He’s either directly getting the shot and the chance himself or creating it for others and driving us down the ice. He wanted to win this game. It was very, very clear how determined he was.”
Hughes’ leadership and offensive production are key to the Devils’ aspirations as they aim to rebound against a tough Penguins squad.
What to Watch For: Penguins vs. Devils
Saturday’s matchup promises to be a thrilling clash of styles. The Penguins are riding the hot hands of their top line, bolstered by veteran leadership and a growing belief in their resilience. The Devils, powered by youthful energy and standout performances from Jack Hughes, will look to outpace and outmaneuver Pittsburgh in front of their home crowd.
The outcome of this game could have significant implications for playoff positioning in the tightly contested Eastern Conference.
Conclusion
Both the Penguins and Devils have demonstrated resilience and a capacity to rise to challenges. The Penguins’ veteran-laden top line will aim to continue their dominance, while the Devils’ young stars seek to make their mark. With high stakes and marquee players on display, Saturday’s game is a must-watch for hockey fans.
