Pens Points: Looking for an Edge

An ugly showing from the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday afternoon left them returning home all even in their series with the New York Islanders and now facing a best-of-three scenario for the right to advance to the second round. With another game on Long Island looming later in the week, taking advantage of home ice tonight will be critical if the Penguins hope to keep their Stanley Cup hopes alive.

Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM and will be broadcast on NBCSN and AT&T Sports Network.

Get ready for puck drop with Pens Points...

Saturday was an afternoon to forget for the Penguins but here’s to hoping they took plenty of lessons away from the loss. From getting the top line going to the second blue line pairing regaining their form, there are ways for the Pens to bounce back. [Pensburgh]

While this series hasn’t been a resume builder for any member of the first line, it’s been especially difficult for Jake Guentzel. Through four games, Guentzel has one single assists and has been held off the score sheet in the last three contests. [Pensburgh]

There is no question Evgeni Malkin is playing through an injury but the Penguins still need him to be better to succeed. His discipline issues showed up in an ugly way on Saturday and having Malkin in the box hinder his ability to produce. [Pittsburgh Post-Gazette]

Like many of his teammates, Kris Letang was far from perfect in Saturday’s loss, but his play otherwise early this postseason has been outstanding. Assistant coach Todd Reirden heaped praise on the Penguins top defenseman for what he has brought so far. [Penguins]

No opposing coach has seen more of Sidney Crosby the past few years than Islanders bench boss Barry Trotz. Between his time with the Islanders and Washington Capitals, Trotz has game planned for Crosby a whole bunch and deeply respects his talents. [Trib Live]

News and notes from around the NHL...

If you saw the ugly John Tavares incident from last week, it’s almost stunning to learn he walked away with only a knee injury and a concussion. Early timetables from the Toronto Maple Leafs indicate Tavares will miss at least two weeks. [ESPN]

In what seems like no time at all, the Colorado Avalanche swept their way past the St. Louis Blues to become the first team to advance to the second round. Colorado won the President’s Trophy and remains a clear favorite to win the Cup. [TSN]