Back on the Winning Track: Penguins beat Thrashers, 3-2

The Penguins got back to their winning ways last night, beating the Atlanta Thrashers, 3-2, thanks to a late power play goal with about 2 and a half minutes to go by RW Petr Sykora.

Miroslav Satan also scored, as did Sidney Crosby, who added helpers on Satan's goal and Sykora's goal for a 3 point night.

Dany Sabourin only had to face 23 shots, but did reject some good scoring opportunities, including a shorthanded breakaway in the second period. Sykora's goal saved him a bit in my estimation since the 2nd and final goal he allowed in the second period, was a questionable wide wraparound by Atlanta 4th liner Jim Slater.

It's the second straight game Sabourin has allowed one that he certainly should have stopped. He's played pretty well otherwise, so if he can cut down on those types of goals, the Penguins will be in great shape. I'm not sure that I'd say they have the best two goaltenders in the league (i.e., the best "tandem"), as Penguins play-by-play man Paul Steigerwald said last night, but they certainly have gotten good goaltending to start this year.

With the win, the Penguins raised their record to 12-4-3, which is their best start since the 116-point team in 1992-1993. They also moved 3 points behind the Rangers. Their next game is Saturday afternoon at 2 PM at home against a hot Vancouver team led by star goaltender Roberto Luongo. The Canucks and Luongo will be a good test for the Penguins.

Fleury is not expected back for that one, so Sabourin will get the call again.

A few other things ....

Ryan Whitney is about to start practicing with the team. Now, this doesn't mean Whitney is close to returning to the lineup. It's likely to be 3 weeks or so before he sees game action, but it will be good to have him back on the ice with the group.

I also haven't heard anything recently regarding the Penguins and Brendan Shanahan. Things seem to be quiet with Shanahan again -- and that's true with regard to his discussions with teams other than the Penguins. I'll post updates as soon as I hear anything in this respect.