Crosby Aids Malkin, Penguins Fall to Flyers

Sidney Crosby was held off the scoresheet by the Philadelphia Flyers in Games 1 and 2 of the playoffs. Despite Crosby's average of 20:14 of ice time and a team-high seven shots on net through two games, the Pittsburgh Penguins find themselves in a precarious position.

Evgeni Malkin has contributed with a goal and an assist in two games, but the Penguins' lack of depth is evident. General Manager Kyle Dubas' roster rejuvenation is still a work in progress, as seen from the Penguins' 5-6-3 record while Crosby was sidelined.

Their top five scorers in the regular season are all over 30 years old, with Thomas Novak, at 28, being the highest scorer under 30. The first round of the playoffs has highlighted the age of the Penguins' core, with four of the five players who have points through two games being over 30.

Coach Dan Muse needs to find a way to get Crosby to contribute offensively, or the Penguins risk an early exit from the playoffs. Crosby is currently skating on a line with Bryan Rust and Yegor Chinakov, which hasn't proven to be a dynamic combination.

The Flyers have exposed the Penguins' depth issues, and without superior performances from Crosby, the team may face a quick departure from the postseason. This scenario could signify the end of Crosby's Hall of Fame-worthy playoff career, according to The Hockey News.