Bunting PP game-winner, Jarry’s 25 saves, and more: 3 reasons why Pittsburgh Penguins' win 5-2 over Toronto Maple Leafs

The Pittsburgh Penguins snapped a brief skid on Saturday night with a big 5-2 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs at the PPG Paints Arena. Rickard Rakell and Michael Bunting scored power-play goals for the Pittsburgh Penguins, with Bryan Rust notching two points and Kris Letang and Blake Lizotte scoring empty-netters. Mitch Marner and William Nylander responded for the Maple Leafs.

So, here’s a look at the three key reasons why the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night.

3 reasons why Pittsburgh Penguins defeated Toronto Maple Leafs

#3 The Pens took advantage of a tired Leafs team

The Pittsburgh Penguins faced the Leafs, who were playing on back-to-back nights. The fatigue on the Leafs’ side showed, especially in the third period when the Leafs were unable to push back hard enough.

Following Bunting’s goal, the Leafs tried to mount a comeback but merely ran out of gas. The lack of energy was evident in the final two minutes as the Leafs got a late power play. However, Toronto was unable to pressure the Penguins, allowing Pittsburgh to score twice on an empty net.

#2 The power play sizzled

The Pittsburgh Penguins' power play went 2-for-5 on the night. Both power-play tallies gave Pittsburgh the lead. Rakell’s goal gave the Pens the early lead, with Bunting’s marker becoming the game-winner.

On the flip side, the Penguins held their own very well during the late 6-on-4 power play the Leafs got with the game 3-2. That power play opportunity resulted in both empty-netters being shorthanded goals as well.

It’s also worth pointing out that the Pens’ power play got the job done without Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin being the main figures. Crosby ended the night with an assist while Malkin was held off the scoresheet.

#1 Tristan Jarry had a good performance

Tristan Jarry played well, keeping the Penguins in the game. Jarry made 25 saves, holding the fort down during the final minutes of the game.

While the Leafs didn’t make an overly strong push in the end, Jarry stood tall. Jarry’s overall performance provided the Penguins with confidence as they skated away with the two points.

Jarry has now strung together four strong starts in a row, winning four of his last five outings. He’s beaten the top three teams in the Atlantic Division, potentially setting the tone for a positive rest of the season.

The Penguins will hit the ice again on Tuesday as they take on the Colorado Avalanche at home.