The Assault on the NHL Begins

Sidney Crosby scores his first goal of the season Monday night just over 5 minutes into the game.  The Pens won 5-0.

Sidney Crosby made his return to NHL action in a big way monday night in Pittsburgh against the New York Islanders.  After not playing a game since January 5th because of a concussion, Crosby didn't miss a beat.  He recorded 2 goals and 2 assists in just over 15 minutes of ice time.  On his first shift he set up linemate Chris Kunitz for a backhander off the crossbar.  Not soon after, he scored his first goal of the season just over 5 minutes into the game.  He blew by a New York defender and roofed a sweet backhand shot over the glove hand of the goalie.  Crosby was noticable on every shift of the game, making things happen for himself and his teamates.  He even set up Brooks Orpik for a goal, only his third in 76 games.  Overall, the Pens looked awesome last night en route to their 5-0 victory.  With Jordan Staal emerging as an offensive threat this season, Evgeni Malkin playing like his old self, and Crosby coming back, the offense looks to be nearly unstoppable.  Along with the stars you have an outstanding supporting cast of role players such as Pascal Dupuis (17 points on the season), Matt Cooke, and Tyler Kennedy.  Couple the offense with a solid group of defensemen headed by Kris Letang, you have the makings of a Stanley Cup contender.  Oh ya and Marc-Andre Fleury posted his 21st career shutout last night too, good luck NHL.