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Can Pittsburgh Penguins' Powerplay Dominate Tampa Bay Lightning's Defense Again?

The Pittsburgh Penguins emerged victorious in their recent clash against the Tampa Bay Lightning with a final score of 4-3. This win improved the Pens' record to 14-7-5, while the Bolts now stand at 16-9-2. The game was held at Benchmark International Arena, where both teams showcased their strengths and weaknesses throughout the match.


Dec 4, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Charle-Edouard D'Astous (51) controls the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the first period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

First Period


The opening period saw a strong start from the Penguins as they managed to secure an early lead with a goal. Despite facing pressure from Tampa Bay's offense, Pittsburgh's defense held firm, allowing no goals in this period. The Pens' goaltender Tristan Jarry was instrumental in maintaining this lead by making crucial saves against all shots faced.


Second Period


In the second period, both teams ramped up their offensive efforts. The Pens capitalized on powerplay opportunities, scoring twice and extending their lead significantly. Evgeni Malkin played a pivotal role during this time with his exceptional playmaking skills contributing to these goals. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay managed to find some rhythm and scored once before heading into the third period.


Dec 4, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Ben Kindel (81) scores a gaol against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Third Period


As tensions rose in the final period, both teams battled fiercely for control of the puck. The Lightning attempted a comeback by scoring two additional goals; however, it wasn't enough to overcome Pittsburgh’s advantage established earlier in the game. Notably, Jarry continued his stellar performance between pipes for Pens by saving numerous attempts from Bolts’ forwards like Nikita Kucherov and Brandon Hagel.


This encounter highlighted several game-changing plays Pittsburgh Penguins vs Tampa Bay Lightning that ultimately decided its outcome favoring Pittsburg’s side due largely thanks due diligence shown especially during powerplays which proved decisive factor here today!


Dec 4, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Ben Kindel (81) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first period at Benchmark International Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Looking ahead post-game thoughts Pittsburgh Penguins will focus on maintaining momentum gained here when they face off next against Dallas Stars scheduled December 7th at American Airlines Center starting promptly around 6:00 PM EDT available live via ESPN+, Victory+, or SportsNet PT networks respectively so mark calendars accordingly fans!


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