Penguins Dominate Blackhawks 7-3 in Chicago

The Penguins rolled past the Blackhawks with a commanding 7-3 victory on December 28, 2025. The game was highlighted by an explosive first period from Pittsburgh, setting the tone for an impressive offensive display.

Big Picture

The game showcased the Penguins' offensive depth and ability to capitalize on early chances. A four-goal first period put the Blackhawks on their heels, forcing them to chase the game right from the start. While Chicago managed to put the puck in the net three times, they were never truly able to close the gap against a powerful Penguins lineup.

Turning Point

The first period served as the turning point for the Penguins. Within the first 12 minutes, they scored four unanswered goals, featuring contributions from key players. The combination of early goals from Anthony Mantha, Bryan Rust, and Justin Brazeau not only established a significant lead but also demoralized the Blackhawks. After the fourth goal, it was evident that Pittsburgh had full control, leaving Chicago with uphill battle for the remainder of the match.

Standout Performances

Justin Brazeau was a standout for the Penguins, netting two goals in the second period alone. His first goal came just after the Blackhawks scored, quickly shifting the momentum back in Pittsburgh’s favor. Bryan Rust also made a significant impact with two goals and an assist, while Anthony Mantha kicked things off with the opening goal of the night. Jack St. Ivany and Ryan Shea were pivotal in the offensive setup, both contributing assists that fueled their team's scoring spree.

On the Blackhawks' side, Nick Foligno and Wyatt Kaiser provided some offensive light, but their efforts were ultimately overshadowed by Pittsburgh’s relentless offense. Tyler Bertuzzi’s late goal added a glimmer of hope for Chicago, but it was too little, too late.

What It Means

The outcome leaves the Blackhawks with lessons to learn as they struggle to find consistency in their defensive play. They were unable to contain the Penguins' offensive outburst, leading to a stretch of frustrating and high-scoring games. For the Penguins, the victory highlights their scoring prowess and positions them as a formidable opponent heading deeper into the season. With this game, they demonstrate their capability to take control early and maintain that momentum, making them a team to watch moving forward.