There is a lot of talk around the league right now about rulings against headshots. If you ever needed any hard evidence to the fact, look no further than players like Eric Lindros, his brother Brett, Keith Primeu (sp?), Deadmarsh...the list really does go on. Nothing would satisfy players more than a call to action now before the regular season starts. I was doing some reading, and through a post on hockeybuzz saw this article. You should definitely check it out.
The Hits Just Keep On Coming
From a Penguins' fan perspective, you kinda have to shutter at this article. And I'm not talking about shuttering in neglect, but instead at the fact Colby Armstrong is mentioned twice in the first 100 words for knocking people out. I remember both of those hits, and I do remember thinking to myself "Jesus, how IS that legal?" But it is...because there is no rule in the NHL that says hits like that warrant a fine or even a penalty for that matter.
I supppose it's also all perspective. If you're a Pens fan and see your player knock someone out, you'll get a lil rowdy, but you know lodged deep in the back of your mind one day it can happen to your guys. Of course, when that day comes, you see it as an illegal hit. In other words, do what's best for the sport and not your team. I really think a decision should be made right away on this matter. The longer time goes by, the more careers are cut short by hits we all know to be dirty, - but the league fails to recognize as such.
Here is the hit under recent speculation. Steve Downie of the Flyers absolutely annihilating Dean McAmmond of the Sens.
Was his head down? Doesn't really matter, the hit is illegal.
In the mean time, the Penguins need to really focus on their powerplay. They were a disappointing...no, patheric 0-8 against the shutout loss to the Red Wings last week. On 30 chances thus far in the pre-season, the Pens have only converted three times. Two came in one game.
Coach Therrien has mentioned the PP is being worked on, but there should be no concerns for last season's 5th ranking powerplay unit.
And finally, if you're looking to get tix to a Penguins home game then don't bring a friend. The Pens have announced only single tickets available to the following games. You can bring a friend of course...but you may want to talk to one another via cell phone or walkie talkie...
Oct. 19 Carolina
Oct. 25 Toronto
Oct. 27 Montreal
Nov. 17 NY Rangers
Nov. 24 Atlanta
Nov. 30 Dallas
Dec. 03 Phoenix
Dec. 13 Ottawa
Dec. 27 Washington
Jan. 03 Toronto
Jan. 05 Florida
Feb. 02 Carolina
Feb. 07 NY Islanders
Feb. 09 Los Angeles
Feb. 19 Florida
Feb. 23 Ottawa
April 02 Philadelphia
The Penguins continue with their training today and tomorrow, till flying back to Pitt for a home game against Buffalo on Friday night. Puck drops at 7:30.
