Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins’ Recent Success
The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins had an outstanding week, winning all three of their recent matches and overcoming adverse weather conditions to maintain their momentum. The team showcased their offensive prowess and solid goaltending, marking a significant return to form since the All-Star break.
Match Highlights
In their first matchup on February 18, the Penguins faced off against Springfield, delivering a potent offensive display with a commanding 7-2 victory. This match marked their strongest performance of the season, highlighted by Avery Hayes achieving a hat trick, bringing his season total to 19 goals. Additionally, teammates Ville Koivunen and Tanner Howe contributed to the scoring frenzy with two goals each, while goaltender Sergei Murashov made an impressive 30 saves.
On February 21, the Penguins hosted the Bridgeport Islanders on Military Appreciation Night, where they triumphed 4-3. After briefly falling behind 2-0, the Penguins rallied to score four consecutive goals, with Filip Hållander and Atley Calvet finding the net before the first intermission, and Sebastian Aho scoring in the second period. The eventual game-winner came via video review, confirming a goal by Koivunen.
The Penguins capped off the week on February 22 with another victory against Bridgeport, clinching a 4-0 shutout. Murashov secured his third shutout of the season with 25 saves, reflecting the team’s strong defensive play. The scoring was initiated by Tanner Howe early in the second period, followed by Phil Kemp. Late in the third, power-play goals from Gabe Klassen and Aidan McDonough sealed the Penguins’ third consecutive win.
Player Performances
Notably, the Penguins have much to celebrate beyond their victories, as several players are showing exceptional performance. Avery Hayes has returned to the NHL, while Murashov continues to shine in goal. Rookie Tanner Howe has amassed seven points in eight games this season. Koivunen, who has recently elevated his performance with four goals and six points over four games, ranks impressively in AHL scoring—third in points per game, with 31 in 25 games this season.
Koivunen’s journey has been closely watched; despite struggles in the NHL, his strong AHL campaign demonstrates his potential for future opportunities at the next level. As he approaches his draft+5 season and turns 23 this summer, there are high expectations for his progression. Last season, he performed well in a brief stint with the Penguins, leading many to speculate that this could be his breakout year, though circumstances haven’t unfolded as such just yet.
Looking Ahead
With the Penguins currently sitting in second place within their division and just two points behind the Providence Bruins, who still hold four games in hand, they are eager to extend their winning streak. Their upcoming matches against the Cleveland Monsters, who have been performing well with a record of 7-2-1 in the last 10 games, will be a critical test as they strive to maintain their momentum and keep climbing the standings.
