Pens 3, Rangers 1

Recap - The Pens put the Rangers away yesterday afternoon at Mellon Arena by the score of 3-1. Pens goals were scored by Hossa, Malkin and Talbot. Marc Andre Fleury stopped 26 of 27 shots to continue his phenomenal play since returning from the ankle injury.

The win put Pittsburgh back on top of the Eastern conference with three games remaining, one point ahead of the Canadiens. The Pens have nearly wrapped up first in the Atlantic. They have a 6 point lead over the Devils but New Jersey has a game in hand. If Pittsburgh earns three points or the Devils lose 3 points in any of the remaining games then the Pens will wrap up first place in the division.

Analysis - Hossa and Crosby are playing very well together. They looked like they were started to get used to each other's game throughout yesterday's contest. Crosby assisted on Hossa's goal along with Dupuis. Hossa did not seem to have any adverse effects from the hit to the back of the head. He was solid on his skates and made a number of great plays.

Wathcing this team come together the way it has since Thanksgiving has been nothing short of remarkable. They are definately ready for playoff hockey as evidenced by yesterday's physically solid play against the Rangers. This is the type of game they will have to play if they are going to go deep into the playoffs.

Next Up - Pittsburgh visits the Rangers tonight at Madison Square Garden (Versus, WXDX)