Michael Rupp scored three goals and Sidney Crosby added two goals and an assist as the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the New York Rangers 5-2 Monday night at Madison Square Garden to sweep the home and home series with the Rangers.
Rupp was a presence all game, scoring his first hat trick of his career and has a career best eight goals this season. "It feels good that it {hat trick} comes in a win," Rupp said. Rupp's play through the first 28 games has led to an increased role and Rupp took advantage of the opportunity to play with Jordan Staal and Tyler Kennedy as Matt Cooke served the first game of his two game suspension.
Rupp has also filled the role of a leader in the Penguins locker room. Penguins General Manager Ray Shero has shown a strong emphasis since last years trade deadline in adding players to his squad with Stanley Cup experience on their resume.
Marc Andre Fleury stopped 29 of 31 shots to win his fifth straight game. Pittsburgh is 3-0 against the Rangers this season and won for the first time at MSG since 2007.
Marian Gaborik (20, 21) scored the Rangers only goals. Gaborik has five multi-goal games on the season.
Pittsburgh improved to 19-9 on the season.
Post-Game Wrap up
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