Pittsburgh Penguins’ Evgeni Malkin spins and scores a slick backhand goal to open the scoring in the first period against the Colorado Avalanche.
The Pittsburgh Penguins delivered one of their most commanding performances of the season Monday night, defeating the league-leading Colorado Avalanche 7–2. The victory was powered by a standout return from veteran center Evgeni Malkin, who scored twice and added an assist after serving a five-game suspension.
Playing without injured captain Sidney Crosby for the 11th consecutive game, Pittsburgh relied on a balanced offensive effort and an explosive opening period. The Penguins overwhelmed Colorado early, scoring four goals in the first period and maintaining control throughout the night.
Evgeni Malkin Makes Immediate Impact After Suspension
Returning to the lineup with fresh energy, Malkin wasted little time influencing the game’s pace. The veteran forward played a central role in the Penguins’ early scoring surge, netting two goals during the opening period and assisting on another.
His suspension stemmed from an incident on March 5 against the Buffalo Sabres, when he struck defenseman Rasmus Dahlin with his stick during a heated exchange. The disciplinary action marked the third suspension of Malkin’s career.
Despite the time away from the ice, the 39-year-old returned with sharp timing and composure, helping the Penguins build a lead that Colorado struggled to overcome.
Penguins’ Offense Fires on All Cylinders
While Malkin led the charge, Pittsburgh’s offense showcased impressive depth. Goals also came from Anthony Mantha, Elmer Söderblom, Erik Karlsson, Bryan Rust, and Noel Acciari, highlighting the team’s ability to produce from multiple lines.
Remarkably, the Penguins reached seven goals on just 20 shots, matching their season high for scoring efficiency. Karlsson also contributed heavily to the offensive flow, finishing with a goal and two assists. The veteran defenseman has been particularly productive lately, tallying three goals and eleven assists across his last ten games.
The win carried additional importance in the standings. Pittsburgh moved two points ahead of the New York Islanders, claiming sole possession of second place in the Metropolitan Division.
Avalanche Struggle to Contain Penguins’ Early Surge
Colorado entered the matchup as the NHL’s top team but quickly found itself on the defensive. The Avalanche allowed three goals on Pittsburgh’s first five shots, forcing an early goaltending change.
Starting goaltender Scott Wedgewood, who had been leading the league in save percentage and goals-against average, was pulled just 13 minutes into the game after surrendering three goals. Backup Mackenzie Blackwood stepped in and recorded 11 saves for the remainder of the contest.
Despite the difficult night, Colorado managed goals from star forward Nathan MacKinnon and defenseman Brent Burns. However, the early deficit proved too large to overcome.
Playoff Race Intensifies as Season Progresses
The defeat marked Colorado’s third loss in its last four games, although the Avalanche still hold a narrow advantage in the standings. They remain three points ahead of the Dallas Stars in both the Central Division and the overall NHL race, with one game in hand.
For Pittsburgh, the victory offered a significant boost as the season moves toward its final stretch. Even without Crosby in the lineup, the Penguins demonstrated resilience and offensive depth during their road trip.
With Malkin’s impactful return and multiple players contributing offensively, Pittsburgh appears determined to maintain momentum in a tightly contested playoff race.
