There’s a lot to be said for consistent two-way play, minimizing dumb plays and giving maximum effort each and every shift. But there’s a lot to be said for points, too.
Geno, you win. So did the Penguins.
Evgeni Malkin served up his usual variety last night at Consol Energy Center. Mostly, he was the best player on the ice.
Sometimes, stupidity transpired. Witness Malkin’s clumsy defensive non-attempt earning a first-period tripping penalty.
But Malkin’s performance added up: One goal, one assist.
His regular season was less productive than expected, but the Penguins center is now tied for the NHL playoff scoring lead with three goals and 10 assists after seven games.
Malkin is a proven playoff performer. Better than Tyler Kennedy, even. Ninety-four points in 75 NHL postseason games, and a Conn Smythe Trophy in 2009.
Compare Malkin’s output to that of other so-called superstars.
Washington’s Alex Ovechkin had a goal and assist in seven games, including a big donut in his last five, and whined about the officiating even as he rushed to the plane that took him to the World Championships in Finland. Got your wish, Ovie. Do svidanya.
Anaheim’s Corey Perry had two assists in seven games. Got paid, though: Perry signed an eight-year, $69 million contract two months ago.
The Rangers always get the wrong guy. Rick Nash is the latest model. This is Nash’s first playoff appearance since 2009, and the best he could do in the first round was two helpers in seven games. The Rangers won despite the big slug.
So, give me Geno. Give me points. Give me special-teams success, too.
The Penguins largely were outplayed by the Islanders. But they went 7 for 21 on the power play and 18 for 20 on the penalty kill.
Last night, the Penguins got outshot 36-30. But they were 2 for 4 on the PP and 5 for 5 on the PK. Scored a short-handed goal, too.
Special-teams success alone can win a series. It can win a Stanley Cup.
Mark Madden hosts a radio show 3-6 p.m. weekdays on WXDX-FM (105.9).
(Photo: Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports)
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