Penguins give up in third period, lose to Sabres 4-3

Before the puck dropped tonight, Max Talbot was listed as day-to-day (but expected out for tonight's game), Dany Sabourin was getting the start in net and Janne Pesonen was expected to fill Talbot's skates.  Of course, much like the obscure "lower/upper body injury," apparently rosters are kept under wraps as well.  Needless to say, Talbot played, John Curry started in place of Sabourin and Pesonen was lucky to get five-plus minutes of ice time.

Unlike Wednesday's game against the New York Islanders, the Penguins were completely out-played in the third period tonight by the Sabres.  No four-goal comebacks here.  Hell, they barely mustered up four shots.

All things considered, John Curry didn't look half bad for his first NHL start.  In fact, if not for a hot mitt in the third it's likely the Sabres would've popped another goal or two before all was said and done.

Losses like this keep the skeptics on hand as the Pens head into the second part of a back-to-back weekend tomorrow against the Devils.

But perhaps the real story here - the heart of the matter, is embedded in yet another poor performance by the Penguins' power play.  This wasn't your run of the mill 0-for-3 or 0-for-4 night.  No.  The Penguins posted a horrendous 0-for-7 with the man advantage.  Nevermind the near short-handed goal they almost gave up for what would've been sixth shorty this year.

Three goals at even strength?  Sure, that's nice.  But if the Pens want to go from competent team to unbeatable team they have to get clicking with this power play. 

All that talent and no production.  Just embarrassing.

The good: John Curry got his first NHL start and showed some wizardry with the glove.

The bad: Despite a solid effort, the offense couldn't help Curry out.

The ugly: Power.  Play.  Vomit.

Next game: Tomorrow.  Devils.  7:30.