Hornqvist's return rejuvenates Penguins' power play

Patric Hornqvist was absent during Pittsburgh's first three regular-season games, and the Pens' power play suffered, scoring just twice in 12 opportunities.

With all of Pittsburgh's talent up front, Hornqvist is far from the team's most important player with the man advantage, but his net-front presence was dearly missed.

Through two periods Wednesday against the Capitals, Hornqvist has a goal and an assist on the power play, and both tallies were due in part to his grittiness around the crease.

Hornqvist's power-play effectiveness isn't news to Penguins fans. Ten of his 21 goals last season came via the man advantage. He was certainly the most unheralded member of the league's third-ranked power play a year ago.