On Friday evening, April 11, 2025, the Pittsburgh Penguins traveled to Newark, New Jersey, to face the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center. The Penguins overcame an early two-goal deficit to secure a 4-2 victory, highlighted by Sidney Crosby’s decisive power-play goal in the third period.
First Period: Devils’ Early Dominance
The Devils started the game with intensity, taking a 2-0 lead in the first period. Erik Haula opened the scoring just 15 seconds into the game, capitalizing on a turnover and beating Penguins goaltender Jake Allen. Ondrej Palat doubled the lead at 6:17, converting a rebound off a shot from former Penguin Cody Glass. Despite Pittsburgh’s efforts, including a power-play opportunity, the Devils maintained their advantage, with Jake Allen making key saves to keep the Penguins scoreless.Reuters
Second Period: Penguins Begin to Rally
The Penguins started the second period with renewed energy. Sidney Crosby, despite briefly leaving the game due to an injury, returned to assist Evgeni Malkin in scoring a power-play goal at 6:48, narrowing the Devils’ lead to 3-2. However, the Devils responded with a power-play goal of their own at 9:42, with Curtis Lazar finding the net to extend their lead to 4-2. The Penguins continued to press, with Crosby and Malkin creating scoring chances, but were unable to capitalize further in the period.ESPN.com+2NHL+2CBSSports.com+2
Third Period: Crosby’s Clutch Performance
The Penguins entered the third period determined to overcome the deficit. At 6:39, Crosby scored a power-play goal, deflecting Bryan Rust’s pass into the net, tying the game at 2-2. Rust then gave the Penguins the lead with an empty-net goal, and later added another goal, securing the 4-2 victory for Pittsburgh.
Key Performances
- Sidney Crosby: Led the Penguins with two goals, including the game-winner, and an assist.
- Evgeni Malkin: Contributed a goal and an assist, playing a pivotal role in the Penguins’ comeback.
- Bryan Rust: Added two goals, including an empty-netter, bolstering the Penguins’ offense.
- Jake Allen (Devils): Made 19 saves but faced challenges in the third period as the Penguins intensified their attack.
Post-Game Thoughts
The Penguins’ resilience was evident as they overcame an early deficit to secure the win. Crosby’s leadership and clutch performance were instrumental, while Malkin’s contributions highlighted the team’s offensive depth. The Devils, despite a strong start, struggled to maintain their lead, allowing the Penguins to capitalize on power-play opportunities.ESPN.com
Crosby’s Power Play Goal Secures Penguins’ Comeback Victory
