Pens Points with a bunch of news from Monday as Canada secures a rematch with the USA.
What looked like a runaway victory for Canada turned into a late squeaker after Finland stormed back from 4-0 down to make it a one goal game with a minute remaining. Mikael Granlund scored twice in 23 seconds to make it 4-3 before Sidney Crosby buried an empty netter to put the game on ice and book a rematch with the United States on Thursday. [NHL]
As a result of the early game, there was nothing to play for between the United States and Sweden besides some pride. Jake Oettinger started in goal for the US while Chris Kreider and Jake Sanderson slotted in for Matthew Tkachuk and Charlie McAvoy respectively. Sweden won the game 2-1 with Kreider scoring the lone American goal. [NHL]
Pens Points…
Over the years, Bryan Rust has firmly established him in the history of the Pittsburgh Penguins franchise. He could have left for a big pay day back in 2023, but decided to stay put and hopefully the Penguins recognize that loyalty. [Pensburgh]
Some goaltenders have a knack for playing the puck while for others it’s better they remain between the pipes. Alex Nedeljkovic isn’t afraid to venture out of his crease and help start the transition the other way for his teammates. [Trib Live]
For the first time, Mike Sullivan is coaching against Sidney Crosby rather than having him at his disposal. Though Sullivan and his team successfully topped Canada on Saturday, Sullivan still gave Crosby high praise. [Mass Live]
It may seem like the Penguins are far off from becoming any true contender again, the plan Kyle Dubas is operating on may have them back in the playoffs sooner than many fans may think if the chips fall right. [The Athletic $$]
NHL News and Notes…
Connor Hellebyuck is the latest the a long line of great American goalies and is starting to form his case for the best ever. What Hellebyuck is doing at the 4 Nations is just a sample of the level he’s been playing at for years. [ESPN]
It’s perhaps too early to call it a true changing of the guard in international hockey as of yet, but the United States has clearly been the best team at the 4 Nations. [TSN]
Both the NHL and NBA hosted premier events this weekend, with the 4 Nations Face-off going up against the NBA All-Star Weekend. If social media was any indication, the NHL came out the clear winner in terms of entertainment value. [The Fan]