The preseason is winding down for the Pittsburgh Penguins and this contest against the Detroit Red Wings is likely the final audition for a number of guys fighting for roster spots.
From top to bottom in the Penguins lineup, there were plenty of faces that were looking to bring the best they have.
Alex Nedeljkovic was is all but certainly set as the backup goalie, but he was given the start in net against the Red Wings.
After struggling to find a shot on goal, the Penguins broke through to record the first goal of the game.
After some crisp passing, recent recall Xavier Ouellet placed a perfect backhand shot over Red Wings netminder James Reimer.
The Penguins carried that 1-0 lead into intermission; aside from Ouellet’s tally, it was a mostly dull period of hockey.
Despite the Penguins carrying much of the momentum to start the second period, the Red Wings would find the next goal to knot the score.
Former Penguins forward Daniel Sprong utilized his hard shot to fire through traffic from the blue line.
The 1-1 deadlock would carry into the final regulation period as neither team could find much of a spark.
As the third period ticked away, both teams tried to create their own spark and a level of choppiness was added to the contest.
Fresh face for the Penguins, Jansen Harkins was in the middle of it a number of times drawing a penalty and getting under the Red Wings’ skin.
As a 5-on-3 opportunity was coming to an end for the Penguins, the Red Wings gained a couple of fantastic offensive chances, but Nedljkovic stood strong.
On a later 4-on-4 situation, the Red Wings would capitalize with the extra ice, taking their first lead of the game.
The Penguins pulled Nedeljkovic looking for that last minute push to get back to a tie score.
Despite a few solid chances by the Penguins, they couldn't sneak one in to even things, ending the contest at 2-1.
The Penguins will head into their final preseason match likely with a much slimmer roster as this may have been the last effort for many guys looking for roster spots.
More must-reads: