By Alex Hanczar
PITTSBURGH (April 16, 2024)—Just one day after their promising victory over the Nashville Predators, the Pittsburgh Penguins have been officially eliminated from Stanley Cup Playoff contention.
After an incredible run that included points in 11 of the final 12 games this season, the Penguins now bow their heads.
Wins by the Detroit Red Wings and Washington Capitals ultimately sealed the team’s fate.
Despite the sorrow, April 16th was an entertaining evening, to say the least.
Former Penguin, David Perron, kept the season alive for Detroit as three seconds remained in the final period versus the Montreal Canadiens. Perron’s one-timer from the blue line notched the contest at four to send it into overtime.
Perron and the Wings would go on to win the game in overtime’s bleeding moments as well, but it would not matter. Capitals forward T.J. Oshie closed the doors on three teams seasons as he netted the post-season clinching goal for Washington.
Video courtesy of SportsNet.
With just under three minutes to go in the Washington-Philadelphia game, the Flyers opted to pull their goaltender in a tie contest. The decision from Head Coach John Tortorella came as the team needed a regulation win to have a shot at a playoff berth.
The only wrench in the story is… they did not have a chance.
The Philadelphia Flyers were eliminated from playoff contention the moment Detroit earned a point against Montreal.
Detroit earned their point as about five minutes remained in the Flyers contest. Whether or not anyone on the Flyers’ bench knew of this is a mystery. However, it would surprise no one if they purposely pulled their goaltender, to spoil rival Pittsburgh’s season as well.
Regardless, a woe of Penguins’ mistakes prior to the final month led to their ultimate demise.
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