Pens Dominate Ovechkin and the Caps

The Pittsburgh Penguins, losers of 10 in a row and their Captain Mario Lemieux, could have gone through the motions last night against the Washington Capitals. Instead, the teams brightest star and a couple fading ones decided that they were not going to lose # 11. Sidney Crosby reminded everyone in attendance that they would be in good hands even after losing Mario, by posting his first 4 point game in the NHL and closing the gap between he and Alexander Ovechkin in the rookie scoring race. John LeClair and Mark Recchi each chipped in 2 goals, and played very solid games.

The Penguin power play accounted for 3 goals and center Ryan Malone scored on a late penalty shot to finish off the 8-1 win.

Sidney Crosby went up 2-0 in head to head match ups with Alexander Ovechkin. Alexander the Great did toss in a goal to tie the score at one during the first period. Ovechkin also took a spear in the groin towards the end of the second period. Ryan Whitney received a match penalty and a 5 minute major for spearing. NHL master of discipline, Colin Campbell, already handed down a decision in the situation. Whitney was fined $1,500 and will not face a suspension.

The Penguins used last night to honor Mario Lemieux with "Mario Moments" and an extended video tribute. Mario was shown in his box and received several very warm ovations including an extended standing ovation after the video tribute. There was also a raucous reaction when Big Ben Roethlisberger was shown chatting with the retired legend.

Notes: There is a rumor circulating that Dick Tarnstrom could be on the move to Edmonton for any number of different players. The most popular version has him going for Jani Rita.