Game 1 NHL Eastern Conference Finals

Pittsburgh Penguins vs Carolina Hurricanes: Pittsburgh wins 3-2 (Pittsburgh leads series 1-1)

Evgeni Malkin was dominant in this game, and despite a late comeback attempt by Carolina, Marc-Andre Fleury stood his ground to help the Penguins win 3-2 in game 1. But credit should go to the Hurricanes, who were playing without Erik Cole and Tuomo Ruutu late in the third. Outside of the first period, overall play was about even for both teams. The biggest concern for Pittsburgh is the two days break between games 1 and 2. The two days allow the injuries on Carolina to heal and gives the Hurricanes more time to bounce back from this loss.

Pittsburgh has scored a power play goal in 7 straight playoff games, tying a franchise record. But the Hurricanes should be pleased with their penalty kill, as they only allowed 1 such goal in 4 opportunities for the Penguins. Despite the high level of physicality, the game was very disciplined in terms of penalty minutes, which is good news for Carolina heading forward, as they have taken out two higher skilled teams by out-muscling and out-grinding them.