After getting back in the win column on Sunday, the Pittsburgh Penguins will look to head into the Christmas break on a win streak when they take on the Toronto Maple Leafs this afternoon. This will be the third and final meeting between the two sides this season with both teams currently trying to save their suddenly floundering seasons as the new year approaches.
Please note that today’s game will begin at an unusual start time with puck drop scheduled for 4:00 PM. TNT will have the broadcast.
Pens Points…
For
a short time during Sidney Crosby’s rookie season, the Penguins future all-time points leader shared a locker room with the man he just passed. While their time together as players was short, Crosby and Mario Lemieux will forever be connected as Penguins legends. [Penguins]
With the Christmas holiday upon us, it will be a relatively quiet week for the Penguins as they take some time away from the ice. The NHL Christmas break begins after the Penguins take on the Leafs later today and they will not return to action until Sunday in Chicago. [Pensburgh]
In terms of stats and trophies, Crosby has either equaled or surpassed his predecessor Mario in about everyway on the ice. Off the ice, the comparisons only continue with their affect on the community and city leaving a lasting impact that will endure forever. [Trib Live]
In partnership with US Steel, The Pittsburgh Penguins Foundation is creating a new program called Free Little Library, a series of library boxes throughout the city where residents can access books free of charge. To get the program started, several members of the Penguins have donated their favorite reads to libraries. [Penguins]
NHL News and Notes…
A slew of injuries hit the NHL last week and will force some stars out of their respective lineups for the time being. Tristan Jarry and will be out week-to-week for the Oilers while Seth Jarvis and Jaccob Slavin will miss extended time for the Hurricanes with upper body injuries. [NHL]
For a second consecutive week, Connor McDavid is crowned the NHL’s First Star of the Week. McDavid has been the hottest player in the league for a few weeks now and he posted another 10 point week to take home the honors once again. [NHL]
