3 most impressive Pittsburgh Penguins from 3-2 win over New York Islanders feat. Michael Bunting

The Pittsburgh Penguins improved to 4-2-0 in their last six games with their 3-2 victory over the New York Islanders on Sunday, giving it back to the team that had beaten them the previous night at UBS Arena. The win improved the Penguins' record to 17-16-5, while the Islanders fell to 14-16-7.

Former Islanders forward Anthony Beauvillier, who has the distinction of scoring the last-ever goal inside the legendary former home of the Islanders in 2021, got the scoring started for the Penguins with his ninth tally at just 3:54 of the opening period.

Early in the second period, Michael Bunting scored for the Penguins to increase the lead to 2-0; he's playing in his first full season with Pittsburgh after being acquired for Jake Guentzel at the NHL Trade Deadline last season.

Penguins captain Sidney Crosby picked up an assist on Bunting's goal, moving him past Mario Lemieux for most assists in franchise history.

Philip Tomasino increased the lead to 3-0 early in the third period with a power play goal, which eventually proved to be the game-winner. The Islanders would make the Penguins nervous with a pair of goals from captain Anders Lee, but they wouldn't get any closer.

Marcus Hogberg made 38 saves in a losing effort for the Islanders, while Alex Nedeljkovic made 29 saves.

3 most impressive Pittsburgh Penguins from 3-2 win over New York Islanders

#1. Michael Bunting

A former Rookie of the Year candidate with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2021-22, Bunting has fit in nicely with the Penguins after his initial months with the Carolina Hurricanes didn't work out and he was traded to the Penguins in exchange for Jake Guentzel.

His goal against the Islanders took his tally to 11 on the season, and he's on pace to reach 23 goals; that would equal his output with the Leafs in both the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons.

#2. Alex Nedeljkovic

Making his first start since December 17, Nedeljkovic improved his record this season to 5-5 with the victory, making 29 saves.

He made a combined six saves on Anthony Duclair and Brock Nelson, while turning aside four shots from heavy-shooting defenseman Ryan Pulock.

#3. Sidney Crosby

While the Penguins captain picked up a lone assist, the fact that he's now ahead of franchise icon Mario Lemieux in career assists is a testament not only to Crosby's talent but his longevity.

He's been a member of the Penguins since entering the league as a fresh-faced rookie in 2005-06, and he's led the Penguins to a trio of Stanley Cup victories. He now has 30 assists on the season.