Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Win Over Phantoms

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins secured a decisive 5-1 victory over the Lehigh Valley Phantoms at Mohegan Arena in Wilkes-Barre on Sunday. Forward Tanner Howe led the charge with one goal and three assists.

His linemates, Rafael Harvey-Pinard and Joona Koppanen, each contributed with a goal and two assists. With this win, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton improved their record to 41 wins, 16 losses, 6 overtime losses, and 2 shootout losses, marking their fourth consecutive victory.

Goaltender Joel Blomqvist further solidified his performance, making 30 saves on 31 shots and enhancing his record to 13 wins, 5 losses, and 4 overtime losses. Additionally, Penguins forward Avery Hayes was a healthy scratch, potentially indicating a forthcoming recall to the NHL roster.

The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins are set to face the Phantoms again in a home game on Friday at 7:05 p.m. In related minor league news, the Wheeling Nailers matched a season-best winning streak with their eighth consecutive victory, defeating the Worcester Railers 4-1 at WesBanco Arena.

Forward Matthew Quercia netted two goals for Wheeling, while defenseman Tristan Thompson registered two assists. Goaltender Maxim Pavlenko earned the win, improving to 15 wins and 9 losses before leaving the game due to a collision.

Taylor Gauthier stepped in as the replacement, making 32 saves on 33 shots. The Nailers will play against the Fort Wayne Komets on the road Wednesday at 7:35 p.m.