Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby was named the NHL’s first star of the week after a 10-month+ layoff due to one or more concussions.
Crosby began his phenomenal week with a four-point effort in his first game since January 5th, needing just 15:54 of ice time to do so. Sid was held pointless in his next game (though he was a +1), only to record three assists Friday night against the Senators and two more Saturday against the Canadiens. The Penguins went 3-0-1 in that span.
That’s nine points in his first four games of hockey in nearly 11 months. Was there ever a doubt who the first star of the league would be once Crosby made his return?
It should also be noted that Evgeni Malkin has recorded two points in every game Crosby has played in this season, though he wasn’t among the NHL’s announced three stars.
Vancouver Canucks goaltender Cory Schneider and St. Louis Blues netminder Brian Elliot (both of whom started the season as backup goaltenders) were the league’s other two stars.
Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty has been suspended three games by NHL Dictator of Whatever Brendan Shanahan for his hit on Kris Letang Saturday night.
Here’s a video of the hit. No penalty on the play:
And here’s a video of Letang’s game-winning overtime goal that night:
I would post a video of Shanahan explaining the suspension, but in my opinion, we all get stupider by listening to what that guy has to say.
EDIT: Almost forgot to wish Marc-Andre Fleury a happy 27th birthday. I remember when he was drafted. Just 12 months ago fans wanted to trade you and Jordan Staal for a bag of pucks. Now you’re one of the five best goaltenders in the National Hockey League. Amazing to think this kid guy is already entering his prime. They grow up so fast.
Follow Troy on Twitter @TroyPfaff
Buy Pittsburgh Penguins Tickets | Buy Pittsburgh Penguins Apparel
