Penguins Face Rangers as Crosby’s Streak Ends, Rust Shines

PITTSBURGH, Pennsylvania — The Pittsburgh Penguins began a critical two-game road trip Friday, facing the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. The game marked the absence of captain Sidney Crosby due to an upper-body injury, ending his 229-game consecutive start streak.

Crosby, who last missed a game in 2022 during the playoffs, was sidelined but participated in theoptional morning skate, offering optimism for his return. “Right now, we’re just taking it one day at a time,” said Head Coach Mike Sullivan.

Bryan Rust stepped up in Crosby’s absence, contributing two assists against the Rangers, marking his ninth multi-point game this season. Rust has 13 points in his last 13 games, trailing only Crosby and Rickard Rakell for the team lead.

Rickard Rakell was named to Sweden‘s 4 Nations Face-Off roster. With 25 goals this season, Rakell remains a crucial offensive asset for the Penguins and will join Sweden during the upcoming international break. “It’s an honor to represent my country,” Rakell said.

Forward Emil Bemstrom was recalled from the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins to bolster the roster. Bemstrom, an AHL All-Star, leads the minor league affiliate with 19 goals and 41 points in 37 games.

Crosby, approaching historic milestones in NHL scoring, continues to recover, while the team focuses on maintaining playoff position. “We’re competing extremely hard and embracing the challenge,” Sullivan said of his team’s mindset heading into the break.

The Penguins conclude their 11th back-to-back set Sunday against the Flyers, aiming to improve their 9-12-0 record in such scenarios.