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Horvat’s Shootout Winner Leads Islanders to Victory over Penguins

In an adrenaline-pumping showdown on Tuesday night, Bo Horvat emerged as the hero, netting the sole goal in the shootout that propelled the New York Islanders to a 4-3 comeback victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Islanders’ Sorokin Shines in Goal

New York’s netminder, Ilya Sorokin, displayed an impressive performance, rejecting attempts from Rickard Rakell, Sidney Crosby and Kris Letang during the tiebreaker. Sorokin wrapped up the night with a total of 32 saves under his belt.

Palmieri and Horvat Drive Offensive Force

Kyle Palmieri contributed a goal and an assist to the Islanders’ cause, helping the team bounce back from a 3-1 deficit halfway through the third period. Simon Holmstrom and Jean-Gabriel Pageau also lit the lamp in the third, with Horvat assisting on both goals.

Penguins’ Efforts Not Enough

Despite a valiant effort, the Penguins fell short. Evgeni Malkin and Crosby were among the key contributors for Pittsburgh, each registering a goal and an assist. Crosby’s goal was a milestone, marking his 598th career tally. Michael Bunting added to the Penguins’ score, while Rakell set up two of the goals.

Alex Nedeljkovich’s Performance

Goalie Alex Nedeljkovich made 23 saves for the Penguins. However, this couldn’t prevent the Penguins from suffering their seventh loss in nine games, following a brief two-game winning streak that had broken their six-game losing run.

Holmstrom and Pageau Spark Comeback

In a crucial turn of events, Holmstrom and Pageau found the net just over three minutes apart to level the score at 3-3. Holmstrom’s savvy backhander marked his first ever power-play goal, while Pageau fired home a one-timer from the slot.

Penguins’ Crosby Continues Domination Against Islanders

Crosby’s impressive record against the Islanders continued, with his career tally of 135 points (42 goals and 93 assists) in 87 games against New York now standing as the highest for any active player against a single team.

Islanders’ Roster Updates and Key Moments

The Islanders welcomed 20-year-old defenseman Isaiah George to his NHL debut, amidst absences of defensemen Adam Pelech and Mike Reilly. Their void was further deepened as Samuel Bolduc was sent down to the minors after a costly turnover in the previous game against the New York Rangers.

Upcoming Games

The Penguins will next face off against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday, while the Islanders will take on Ottawa the same day.

Islanders’ Penalty Kill Struggles Continue

The Islanders’ penalty kill unit has been a concern, giving up seven goals on 13 power-play opportunities in their last six home games.

This thrilling rally by the Islanders highlights their potential to turn games around, offering an exciting prospect for the rest of the season.

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