Penguins Grades: Grinders Shine, Pens Not Dead Yet (+)

It’s been so long since the Pittsburgh Penguins had an offensive outburst that coaches had to show the team videos of goals they’ve scored to remind them what the process looked like. The Penguins had every reason and opportunity to dispose of the San Jose Sharks, like a used Kleenex in flu season, but instead let them linger like a bad cough before finally putting away the hapless Sharks with the surprising third period surge.

The Penguins trailed 2-1 after a pitiful first period that elicited boos from the home fans within the first few minutes. Nor could the team hold a 3-2 late second-period lead despite San Jose all but gifting them a victory before surging for a 6-3 at PPG Paints Arena.

Must Read Recap: Sputtering Penguins Take Bite Out of Sharks, 6-3.

Coach Mike Sullivan said there was no scoreboard watching during the game, but he knew the scores before his postgame press conference. Believe it or not, the Penguins got a lot of help Thursday and are only five points behind the New York Islanders for the final playoff spot.