ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Captain Sidney Crosby scored two goals as the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Minnesota Wild 3-1 on March 9, 2025, at the Xcel Energy Center. This victory snapped the Penguins' four-game losing streak, providing much-needed relief for the team.
Tristan Jarry, who made his first start since being sent to the minors on January 16, 2025, had an impressive performance, making 30 saves and earning his first win since December 23, 2024. Evgeni Malkin also made his mark on the game, scoring once, and together they helped the Penguins secure just their second victory in regulation over the past eleven games.
It was also significant for Wild's goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, who faced his former team for what is likely the last time. Fleury, who spent 13 seasons with the Penguins and won three Stanley Cups, turned aside 19 shots but could not prevent the loss. His start marked the 1,015th of his career, breaking a tie with Roberto Luongo for the second-most games started by a goalie in NHL history, trailing only Martin Brodeur.
The game began with both teams displaying solid defensive skills, and after one scoreless period, it was Malkin who broke the deadlock. He found the net with just three seconds left on the power play, putting the Penguins up 1-0 at 15 minutes and 22 seconds of the second period.
Momentum built for the Penguins throughout the match, and they had their first lead heading to the final intermission since February 7. Crosby extended their lead at 9:21 of the third period, scoring on a rebound, putting Pittsburgh up 2-0.
Despite the advantage, the Wild fought back. Ryan Hartman scored for Minnesota with just over five minutes remaining, making it 2-1 and giving the home fans something to cheer about. But with the Wild attempting to tie the game, they pulled Fleury for an extra attacker. Crosby took advantage of the situation, scoring his second goal of the game from the empty net with 1:13 left on the clock to seal the Penguins' victory at 3-1.
"Fleury made his 1,015th career start to pass Hall of Famer Roberto Luongo for second place on the NHL's all-time list," reported the Associated Press. This is noteworthy as it adds to the legacy of one of the most revered players to have ever donned the Penguins’ jersey.
Minnesota struggled with their special teams throughout the match, finishing just 1 for 6 on power plays, which is concerning as they are known to have the league's worst home penalty kill at 66.7%. The inability to capitalize on extended opportunities was highlighted when they managed only two shots during their four-minute power play, frustrating the home crowd.
The Penguins’ coach Mike Sullivan achieved another milestone with this win as he became the 14th coach in NHL history, and the first American-born coach, to reach 400 wins with one franchise. His consistency and leadership have been pivotal for the team’s success over the years.
Looking forward, the Penguins will return to action on March 11 against the Vegas Golden Knights, starting their five-game homestand. Meanwhile, the Wild will look to turn things around when they host the Colorado Avalanche on the same date. Minnesota has been solid on the road with a record of 22-10-3 but struggles at home, currently sitting at 14-14-1.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how both teams adjust after this matchup, particularly with the Wild needing to improve their home performances. This game served as both a triumph for the Penguins to halt their losing streak and as a farewell to one of their franchise's legends, Fleury, marking the end of an era.