The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets 5-2 last night to clinch their first-round series of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Bryan Rust scored twice for the Pens, while goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury stopped 49 of 51 shots on goal. It was Fleury’s 54th career playoff win for the Penguins, and he passes Tom Barrasso’s all-time mark. The Pens were two of four on the power play, getting goals from Phil Kessel and Sidney Crosby.The Pens will play the winner of the Washington-Toronto series, which is tied at two. Tickets for the second round go on sale today at 10am. If they play the Capitals, the Pens will host games three and four of the series. They would host the first two games with Toronto.
Former Penguins coach Dan Bylsma has been fired by the Buffalo Sabres after just two seasons. They also fired general manager Tim Murray. The Sabres finished last in the Atlantic Division this season.
Columbus defenseman Zach Werenski, Toronto forward Austin Matthews and Winnipeg winger Patrik Laine were named the finalists for the Calder Trophy, given to the NHL’s top rookie.
