Down 2-0 to Flyers in NHL playoffs, Crosby, Penguins remain hopeful
Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby takes a shot on goal during the second period against the Philadelphia Flyers during Game 2 of a first-round playoff series Monday in Pittsburgh. Photo by Archie Carpenter/UPI April 21 (UPI) -- Sidney Crosby remains hopeful his Pittsburgh Penguins can climb out of an 0-2 hole to beat the Philadelphia Flyers in a first-round playoff series. Crosby commented on series struggles after the Flyers beat the Penguins 3-0 in Game 2 on Monday at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh.
The Penguins outshot the Flyers 45-43, but were outhit 88-73 through the first two meetings of the best-of-seven game series. The Flyers also held a 37-17 advantage in blocked shots. The Penguins haven't held a lead so far this postseason.
"I think we've been in some tough spots all year," Crosby told reporters. "We've always responded really well to adversity. It seems like it's brought out the best in all of us.
Pittsburgh Penguins right wing Rickard Rakell (67) holds back Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen (55) after fighting with center Sidney Crosby (87) in the first period of a first-round playoff series Monday in Pittsburgh. . Photo by Archie Carpenter/UPI "I think that getting on the road and having a situation like this hopefully brings out the best in us again here.
" Crosby, who didn't record a point through the first two games, said the Penguins failed to capitalize on their "looks around the net. " He also cited power play struggles. Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby reacts after Philadelphia Flyers right wing Travis Konecny pushes him during the third period of Game 2 of a first-round playoff series Monday in Pittsburgh.