NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In an exciting matchup on Thursday night, Bryan Rust netted his second goal just over a minute into overtime, allowing the Pittsburgh Penguins to edge out the Nashville Predators 5-4. Sidney Crosby showcased a standout performance with a season-high four points, contributing one goal and three assists to the victory. Alongside Rust, who also provided two assists, Rickard Rakell and Erik Karlsson each added a goal and an assist for the Penguins, who have triumphed in three of their last four games. Goaltender Tristan Jarry made 22 saves to help secure the win.

Crosby ended a 10-game goal drought, marking a significant moment as the team’s captain. The Predators had contributions from Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, Luke Evangelista, and Brady Skjei, all of whom found the back of the net as well. Nashville’s Juuse Saros held off 15 shots during the game, while Filip Forsberg registered two assists.

In a dramatic overtime sequence, Rust received a pass from Evgeni Malkin in the slot and quickly fired a wrist shot past Saros, clinching the game for Pittsburgh. The Penguins spent the majority of the night trailing and did not take the lead until Rust’s decisive goal.

This victory was especially notable for Pittsburgh, who has now gone to overtime in three consecutive games, achieving a record of 2-0-1 during that stretch. Conversely, Nashville has struggled in overtime situations this season, managing only one win in their eight overtime appearances.

In terms of game dynamics, despite the Penguins recording just nine shots on goal through the first two periods, they capitalized efficiently, scoring three times. This was a disappointing follow-up for Nashville, who had celebrated their win against the New York Rangers on Tuesday but could not build on that success, as they have not secured back-to-back victories since a three-game winning streak from October 22 to 26.

A pivotal moment in the game came when the Penguins, at one point behind 3-1, saw Crosby and Rakell score within a minute to level the score. Statistically, ease in performance can be noted as Pittsburgh has secured at least one point in 12 of their last 14 games against Nashville, with a record of 10-2-2 during that span.

Looking ahead, the Penguins will face the New Jersey Devils, while the Predators will host the Los Angeles Kings this Saturday.