Let’s start this shortened week of vacation with a delicious history lesson.

Before Sydney Crosby began trace the McDonald’s logo During pregame warmups, Wendy’s was the The penguins major partner of the fast food chain. Fans could win free Wendy’s chili if the Penguins score at least seven goals in a home game.

People of a certain age (cough, cough) remember the so-called Chili Goal fondly. In the old Igloo (aka Civic Arena), fans chanted “chili” repeatedly as the Penguins scored six goals. This happened a lot in the late 80s and early 90s. We weren’t as health conscious back then, and maybe we were happier for it.

Or we just liked free stuff.

Wendy’s is no longer the supplier to Chili Goal. That honor belongs to Eat n’Park, but it’s always the same exercise: if the Penguins score seven, the fans get a bowl of chili.

THE Dallas Stars Chile scored a goal against the Penguins last night.

In 21 seasons, I have never witnessed such a poor opening period from the Penguins. Neither did Eddie Johnston, which is saying something since he managed and coached the worst team in franchise history in 1983-84.

I could go on, but Josh Yohe I captured the failure. Maybe he deserves some free chili?

Yinz says

During last night’s game, I asked my followers questions about X and promised to answer them today. Thank you for making me happy. Nothing is wrong here:

How much influence does Crosby have on Mike Sullivan’s future? – @CoachDanArel

Fans generally place too much emphasis on Crosby’s influence.

Except in June/July 2022, when he (and Sullivan) pushed then-GM Ron Hextall to keep Evgeny Malkin And Kris LetangCrosby demanded no movement. Like most captains, he is consulted.

Crosby isn’t just an all-time great. This is the main reason why he wasn’t named Gary Bettman, because there is still a NHL team in Pittsburgh. Fenway Sports Group wants Crosby to play his entire career here and take an active role whenever he wants after he retires. His opinion carries weight.

And, for whatever it’s worth, Crosby insisted he loves playing for Sullivan.

Is there a way to address the defensive gaps – @cptkrissy

Sure, but it would require forwards to make better decisions with the puck and defenders to make quicker and correct reads on odd-man runs.

None of this is happening and hasn’t been for a while. Having defenders capable of defending wouldn’t hurt.

Strawberry or grape jelly on PB&J? — @penguins8766

Mixed jelly. Almond butter. Sliced ​​bananas. Toasted honey wheat bread.

Now I’m hungry.

Song of the day

“November Rain” — Gun N’ Roses

At some point, this epic from rock’s last dangerous band was bound to appear here. It’s November, and in Pittsburgh that usually means rain, lots of it.

If the words “Because nothing lasts forever / even the cold November rain» has nothing to do with the fate of the Penguins, what does it matter?

Plus, Slash wails a wicked solo on a piano that Axl plays…come on, it’s awesome.

Touch passes

• Sam Poulin was recalled from the AHL, replacing Kevin Hayes (upper body injury). Hayes was placed on injured reserve.

Poulin did not play last night. This might come as a surprise, but his role appears to be that of a supplemental striker at this stage of his career.

• Kyle Dubas will attend NHL general managers meetings in Toronto. These start today.

It makes sense, right? He is the general manager of the Penguins.

In my experience, general managers often use social interactions in meetings to chat. I’m just throwing this out there.

Don’t miss

• Much has been made of the Penguins’ failure to attract 15,000 fans to a home game on Halloween. It’s true, attendance is lagging behind the glory days.

Is this just a Pittsburgh problem?

This story by Harman Dayal and James Mirtle gives an idea of ​​the attendance in the league.

• Dubas is a member of the management team prepare Canada list for the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off tournament scheduled for February.

• The fallout continues since the death of former Penguins player Adam Johnson more than a year ago. Here is the last on the arrest of an anonymous man by police in England.

(Photo: Charles LeClaire / Imagn Images)