3 major takeaways from Pittsburgh Penguins' 5-2 win in preseason game vs Ottawa Senators

The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Ottawa Senators 5-2 in a physical game on Sunday. The game featured most of both clubs’ regulars as the contest was part of this season’s Kraft Hockeyville award. The game honored the community of Elliot Lake, Ontario. The matchup was played at the local arena in nearby Sudbury, Ontario.

The Pittsburgh Penguins got a hat trick from superstar Evgeni Malkin and a pair from team captain Sidney Crosby. Meanwhile, Nick Cousins and Tim Stutzle responded for the Sens.

So, here’s a closer look at the three major takeaways from the Pittsburgh Penguins’ preseason win over the Ottawa Senators.

3 major takeaways from Pittsburgh Penguins' preseason win vs Ottawa Senators

#3. The Pens’ power play clicked

The Pittsburgh Penguins went 2-for-4 with the man advantage, getting goals from the usual suspects: Malkin and Crosby.

On the whole, the Pens’ power play looked good. The puck movement was excellent, keeping the penalty kill consistently trying to follow the puck. But Malkin’s power play marker stood out among the others.

After Crosby took the puck behind the net, Kris Letang picked up the pass from Crosby and threw it back to the point. Malkin grabbed the puck and lobbed it at the net from outside the faceoff circle. The puck hit an Ottawa defenseman and floated past Anton Forsberg.

It was evident that Forsberg, along with the other penaltykillers, had lost sight of the puck. When everyone realized, it was in the back of the net.

#2. The game was a physical contest

There were various instances in which the game got physical. There was plenty of pushing and shoving following whistles.

While the Penguins are not known for being an overly physical team, they didn’t back down from the challenge. In the end, Sam Poulin got the gate for Pittsburgh following an alternation with Zack MacEwen.

It was encouraging to see the Pens play a tougher style of hockey as teams like the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes also play a hard-checking style in the Metro Division.

#1. The stars came through

The Pens had most of their lineup on the ice for the special occasion andthe stars did not disappoint. Malkin’s hat trick and Crosby’s two goals delighted the fans.

Additionally, the goaltending was spot-on for the Pens. Tristan Jarry and Filip Larsson split the duties, stopping 36 shots.

Overall, the Pens played a great game, giving the fans plenty to cheer about. If the Pens can keep up this momentum, the club could get back into the playoff conversation this season.