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After what was a mixed bag campaign for Tristan Jarry in 2020-21, the Pittsburgh Penguins bet on the idea that their starting goaltender would bounce back this season. He delivered, but with the playoffs fast approaching, he’s week-to-week with a lower-body injury that’s believed to be a broken foot. That’s put the Penguins in a troubling position at a critical time, but injuries also create opportunities and so far, Casey DeSmith is taking advantage of his.
DeSmith was tasked with starting against the Boston Bruins last night and the result was a historic showing. DeSmith faced 52 shots and didn’t allow a single goal. That’s tied for the fifth most saves in a perfect game.
This was his second game since Jarry was hurt and his other contest – also against Boston – was impressive too. While the Penguins suffered a 2-1 loss to Boston on Saturday, DeSmith did his part, stopping 27 of 29 shots.
Of course, a couple good games doesn’t mean Pittsburgh’s problems are solved. DeSmith has typically been a good backup, but he has a total of 93 games worth of NHL experience and none of that has been in the playoffs. He still has a lot left to prove, but games like this show that he also is capable of great things.
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PHILADELPHIA 6 MONTREAL 3
James van Riemsdyk scored two goals and registered an assist for the Flyers. That gives him 23 goals and 37 points in 78 contests.
Ivan Provorov also played an important role in Philadelphia’s win by scoring a goal and recording an assist. He has nine goals and 28 points in 75 games.
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