Overview
- Anthony Mantha and Noel Acciari scored two goals each, Erik Karlsson logged his 700th career assist, and rookie Ben Kindel added an empty-netter as Pittsburgh built a 5-1 lead.
- Stuart Skinner improved to 8-1 over his last nine starts despite a shaky third period as the Penguins nearly let a four-goal cushion slip away.
- The Rangers mounted a late push with four third-period goals from Alexis Lafreniere (two), Vincent Trocheck, Vladislav Gavrikov and Will Cuylle, but fell short in the final seconds.
- Veteran defenseman Kris Letang will miss at least a month with a fractured left foot sustained Thursday, a setback noted during a pregame ceremony honoring the 2016 Cup team that left Sidney Crosby visibly emotional.
- New York’s slide continued after a 3-10-1 January and a 2-10 mark since Igor Shesterkin’s injury, with Artemi Panarin held out for roster management as reports indicate he is likely to be traded during the club’s announced retool.