(Denver) Sidney Crosby reached 30 goals for the 11th time in his career and the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Colorado Avalanche 5-2 on Wednesday night.
With his accurate backhand shot, Crosby tied the legendary Mario Lemieux for the most 30-goal seasons in Penguins history.
According to NHL Stats, Crosby also became the first player in league history to have a 30-goal season at age 18 and another when he was 35 or older.
Jeff Carter hit the target twice as Jake Guentzel and Bryan Rust added a goal apiece for the Pittsburgh squad. Tristan Jarry blocked 28 shots to improve his record this season against Western Conference teams to 11-4.
The Penguins snapped a four-game losing streak and moved into the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. They are attempting to make the playoffs for the 17th straight season.
J.T. Compher and Devon Toews replied for the Avalanche, who suffered their first loss in seven games. Nathan MacKinnon had an assist for at least one point in his 18th straight home game.
Alexandar Georgiev made 40 saves, including several big ones in the second period, as the Penguins outshot the Avalanche 21-9.
