The Canadian superstar had a great show and was behind four of the goals when the Penguins went up a 5-0 lead halfway into the match.

Crosby made it three goals and put himself 4-0 in powerplay after a nice clap-clap game where he was served by Patric Hörnqvist.

- I think everyone contributes and our work ethic and zeal are there every night. We give ourselves the chance when we play that way. The work ethic sets the tone for everything else, Crosby tells nhl.com afterwards.

Matthews up in the bowling alley

Auston Matthews reduced to the Maple Leafs and at the same time went up in the shooting lead with his 43rd full-time record of the season, one more than Boston's David Pastrnak.

Toronto scored two goals before the second period ended, but the final act was speechless and the result stood out in time.

- It's frustrating, of course. There are over 20 games left this season, but we need to show more desperation and start playing better hockey. We have some to talk about in the dressing room, says Matthews.

Crosby's powerful facet

Since the 2005-2006 season, Sidney Crosby has made 34 matches with at least four points, most of them in the NHL. Washington's Alexander Ovetjkin is second with 28 games.

Pittsburgh now tops the Metropolitan Division.