Penguins vs Avalanche Preview

The Pittsburgh Penguins head in to Colorado tomorrow night to take on Paul Stastny, Joe Sakic and an otherwise formidable Avalanche team. This will be the only regular season appearance between the two teams and hopefully another road game that falls in the Pens' favor.

Heading in to tomorrow night's game, the Penguins and Avalanche are pretty evenly. The Avs sit in the Western Conference with a mediocre 14 points in fifth place while the Pens hold the same position with 13 points in the East. Of course, it's still far too early in the season to start making conference comparisons, but it's safe to say the two are evenly matched.

Yet there are certain areas in which the two are entirely different. Look no further than the powerplay units. The Penguins are ranked third in the league, converting nearly 1 out of every 4 (24.56%) powerplay attempts. Colorado on the other hand is 21st in the league at roughly a 15% conversion. On the kill, Colorado has a slight edge over the Pens, striking down powerplays 85% of the time compared to the Pens' 83%. Again, there isn't as much a difference in the PK as there is the man advantage. In the end I think it balances out. If the Pens convert 1 out of every 4 and the Avs are killing nearly 3 1/2 out of every 4, it's going to come down to a game of even strength goals and man on man contention.

You probably won't find a better game to watch tomorrow night.

The Pens are going to need to lock down Stastny and Sakic, that's a no brainer. On a similar note, the Avs are going to try and do the same with Malkin and Crosby. Recently the two have found themselves on the same line and I think it's definitely had it's advantages. You can't double team two players - that leaves one guy to cover the other three. Malkin and Crosby are terrifying to any team - not necessarily for their ability to score (even though they do that too) but because they have the amazing ability to find the open man in the heat of being pinned down.

Stastny + Sakic = 28 combined points. Malkin + Crosby = 33 combined points.

Will we see some so called "sleepers" wake up tomorrow night? Perhaps. But I really think it's going to be a Stastny/Sakic Crosby/Malkin showdown.

Let's look between the pipes. Peter Budaj vs ________? I'm thinking with whole hearted certainty that the Pens will give Fleury the nod for this matchup. It's not to say Sabu's play was bad, but you can't have your starting goaltender (in salary terms at least) sitting on the bench for more than one game unless injured or otherwise unable to play. He's shaky, he's a bit rough around the edges right now, but he's the better choice no doubt. However, that contract negotation in January isn't looking so good right now...

On a side-note, take a look at Fleury with his helmet off. He reminds me for some reason of Tweek from South Park.

Pens stomp Wild 4-2

Dany Sabourin was given the start over MA Fleury in the only regular season matchup between the Penguins and Minnesota Wild. Sabu got the win, but I think it's safe to say the night belonged to Sid. Captain Crosby tallied 1 goal and 3 assists en route to the Penguins 4-2 victory over the Wild. Malkin also had a three point night with two goals and an assists.

By the end of the 0-0 first period it was almost posing as evidence to another low scoring affair. But hey, as long as Sabu was keeping the puck out, I was ok with a scoreless tie heading into the second.

But then, all hell broke loose. Malkin from Crosby and Malone gave the Pens a quick 1-0 lead within the first four minutes of the second. The Wild retaliated three minutes later to tie it at one. If there's one thing I love about the Penguins more this season than any other, it's that sense of anger and rage when they give up a goal. The favor hardly stands in the other team's court for long, often sending the Pens on an eating binge of goals. I say this because tonight was no different. 15 seconds after the Wild tied the score at 1, Malkin took a pass from Crosby-Malone (again) to net another Pens goal.

2-1 heading into the third.

After a Wild goal to tie the score at two, the powerplay stuck gold on a Sykora goal 10 minutes in to take the lead for good. Crosby would later score his fifth goal on the season, coming from a breakaway pass from Gonchar-Malkin.


Crosby makes it look easy

The offense was looking hot tonight, and frankly the defense was too. The forechecking in the first period alone was enough evidence to me that this was going to be a victory, regardless of the 0-0 first intermission. Sabourin looked solid in net and I'm hoping that Minnesota is the team that will later take the blame for awakening the sleeping demon that is Sidney Crosby.

Crosby's four points on the night sends him up the league's point leader board with 17. Malkin is only one behind him with 16. Combined, the two of them have the same amount of points as the top five on the Rangers' roster. (Jagr-Shanahan-Drury-Rosival-Dawes). I know it's not exactly saying much comparing to the Rangers, but I just couldn't resist.


26 minutes for high-sticking...

Big road win tonight and hopefully three more to come. Pens head in to Colorado Thursday night to take on the Avalanche. Preview will be up soon.

Pens vs Wild preview

The Pens head off to Minnesota to take on the Wild tomorrow night in the first of a four game road trip. Perhaps one can say it was divine intervention coming to the aid of the Penguins, as Nick Backstrom is out with a groin injury. The Wild called up AAA netminder Nolan Schaefer, but he's just on the bench for backup purposes behind the regular second string John Harding. In Harding's most recent appearance against the Avalanche Sunday, he gave up three goals in a 3-1 Wild loss. Harding is 2-1-1 on the season.

Is Sabourin going to start in net for the Pens tomorrow? Definitely a question running through the Penguins' circuit, as Sabu played flawlessly in his relief effort for Fleury against the Habs the other night. Aside from the game winning goal in the 8th round of the shootout, Sabourin didn't let anything past the line all night. His stellar performance is the exact thing the Penguins needed, in addition to Crosby's "I'm not taking your crap" retaliation on Kovalev to ignite the team's comeback. Regardless, in the long run it was a hard earned but well deserved point on the night. Two would've been nice, but one is better than the zero that was easily predicted early in the second.

Tyler Kennedy. The kid is making his showing a lot of speed, and from a personal standpoint I think he's going to fit in just right with the squad. Whether someone has to go in turn is a possibility, but it's a good sign of new life on what would appear to be a morale tattered squad.

Which leads me to my next point - a 5-4-1 record isn't bad, but man does the media love to have a field day with it. All BS about how the team isn't living up to its expectations and not playing like contenders. I can say a million things in retaliation to that, but I feel it's a moot point. I will leave it at this. It's still early.

Oh, and thank God the Rangers aren't living up to their potential either. It certainly takes a lot of stress off the Pens.

Heading in to tomorrow's game the Pens have converted at least once every game on the powerplay, making it 10 straight for the team. The Pens are also last in the league in penalty minutes, which is all good because they're an OK 13th in the league in penalty kills.

One of the bigger threats on Minnesota, winger Marian Gaborik, is listed day-to-day with a groin injury he suffered during practice on Saturday. Last season Gaborik missed 34 games with a similar injury, but has already said it is not related. He was mysteriously silent when asked if his injury was related to Backstrom's.

As luck would have it, it may almost seem like the Pens have the advantage heading in to the only regular season meeting with the Wild. Roberts is expected to play following a cold (which I'm still sore about by the way), and Talbot has had some time to heal up from the neck soreness sustained against Toronto. All in all I'd say the Pens have the advantage, and a win tomorrow night in Pitt will hopefully bode good fortune on the remaining three games in the road trip.

Finally, on an unrelated note to the Pens or Wild but certainly pertinent to the goings-on around the league, the Flyers' Randy Jones has been suspended for two games following his hit on the Bruins' Patrice Bergeron. Bergeron was knocked unconscious on the ice, to eventually get wheeled off on a stretcher. It was later said Patrice suffered a concussion and broken nose. See the hit for yourself. I think it was unavoidable on Jones' part, as Bergeron turned on him. This suspension/fine thing isn't foreign to the Flyers club, who have seen two prior incidents of suspension this season. Are the Broad Street Bullies back? Or are they just a collective group of dirt bags?

Awww Gawwy Wobberts Has A Cooold

It wasn't a moment of grievance, a seperated shoulder or evening of internal combustion that scratched Gary Roberts Saturday night against the Canadiens. It wasn't a severed limb, post-concussion syndrome or broken back that rendered Roberts unable to play.

It was a cold.

Coldemus heademus - the unofficial Latin term for a head cold, or in Gary Roberts' case, a free pass from game night.

I'm sure Gary Roberts has never gone on the record for saying he's after Doug Jarvis' record of most consecutive starts (964), but in the world of hockey a head cold is comparable to an ingrown toe nail. Just ask Max Talbot, who despite being rocked in to the boards against Toronto Thursday night still managed to lace up the skates and make his presence known against the Habs. To top it off, Mad Max took another crushing hit last night that again sent him flying to the ice. Sore neck? Just another day in the life of Max Talbot. Just another day in the life of a hockey player.

Hell, we can even go back to the last Penguins vs Toronto matchup. Brooks Orpik took a glove to the face from Simon Gamache, sending him down to the ice and knocking him unconcious. After taking a few minutes to find his head, Orpik was assisted up off the ice and walked to the dressing room under his own strength. He'd miss a practice, but not a game, as he was back in the lineup against the Devils later that week.

A head cold? Come on Gary. You hold yourself in high regard, committed to playing at the level of an NHL enforcer. You bash people's faces in night in and night out, send yourself wielding in to the boards and aren't afraid to rally the troops with a few bone-crushing hits. And yet, a head cold puts you on the sidelines?

I know it's not playoff hockey we're talking about here, and I think Tyler Kennedy played a great game in Roberts' place, but even still it's not coming off to me as a method of leadership when you sit out for symptoms of a head cold while your teammates Max and Brooks are told to skate on 'the rink you see in the middle' because of shots to the head and neck.

Tsk tsk Scary Gary.

Readers, please send Coldeez, tissues and Dayquil to:

Mellon Arena
C/O Gary Roberts
66 Mario Lemieux Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15219


Sniffle...

Carey Price - Penguin Killer

I should've known that Price would be in net tonight. His only other win on the season came against the Pens, so why would the Canadiens' coaching staff think otherwise? Besides, Huet got a good workout last night, I should've known he'd be off.

But why of why did Price have to get the win? Through three periods, one overtime and eight rounds of a shootout, the Pens climbed back to only lose in the end.

Talbot surprised me with a start tonight, as it was initially rumored he'd sit out with neck soreness. Tyler Kennedy got his first start, and although he didn't tally a point I feel he really made his presence known on the ice almost acting as the hitman replacement for the scratched Gary Roberts. Laraque was also a scratch on the night, as I'd imagine he's still dealing through his groin problems.

And you know what? I really admire Crosby's leadership when he retailiated on Kovalev following the hit in the back to Malkin. Granted, he could have stayed out of the box and been on the powerplay, but I think Crosby knew what the team needed - a jolt of energy to rally some sort of comeback.

Before the end of the second is was Crosby and Sykora each netting a goal, before the tying and highly anticipated one finally came in the third from a Whitney shot on the powerplay. (Mark that 10 straight game the Pens have had a PP goal).

Now on to the goaltending situation. As far as I'm concerned, every goalie has their ups and downs. If you needed any further evidence (aside from Fleury) then look no further than Carolina's Cam Ward who gave up seven goals to Montreal last night. Fleury? I think the guy could use a game or two off. He's so hot and cold it's scary, but he's still more than capable. However, I don't see him playing like the 40 game winner I saw last year.

Prior to this game, and even last night's Montreal game, I never perceived the Canadiens as being much of an offensive threat. I'll be honest, most of the Montreal games I've seen have all been close ones, especially the overtime shootout loss to Florida on a goal scored in the closing seconds of what looked to be a Huet shutout.

The Penguins' powerplay unit went 2-6 on the night, which I perceive as being above average. The Habs went 1-7 after going an AMAZING 5-9 last night. Good thing they really clicked against Carolina and not the Pens. Another painful big-margin loss would have been unbearable.

I'd also like to just go on the record as saying that Ryder wrister in the second period was lightning. I didn't even see that thing leave his stick, and to be completely honest with you I didn't even see it in the net. You can imagine how taken back I was to find out it was a goal.

Tonight's loss makes it two straight for the Pens, who now embark on a four game road trip starting with Minnesota on Tuesday. I've just gotten word that Minnesota's rising backstop Backstrom suffered a groin injury. The team has recalled a netminder from the AHL, as Backstrom will sit tomorrow's game. With any luck, the Pens can faceoff Tuesday night against a Backstrom-less Wild. At this point, they'll take what they can get.

The Pens have now fallen to 5-4-1 on the season.

Penguins Goals

1st Period
NONE

2nd Period
Sykora from Malkin-Hall
Crosby from Malkin-Whitney

3rd Period
Whitney from Malkin-Sykora PPG

Penguins vs Canadiens preview

Judging by Montreal's 7-4 performance last night against the Hurricanes, it's more than obvious that Christobal Huet can give up a few goals. More importantly though, is that number seven, the number of goals an otherwise low-scoring team managed to put up against Cam Ward, one of the beat netminders in the league, to secure Huet's win for the night. Clearly, the Habs can pack a punch too.

The last time the Pens and Canadiens faced off, Huet was on the bench in favor of Carey Price's first NHL start. If you're a Penguins fan, then you know how that went. If I have to hear about how Dryden, Roy and Price all won their first career starts against Pittsburgh one more time I'm going to flip a sh*t.

With that being said, at least Price's first start is out of the way. Die hard Montreal fans have been hailing him the "Savior of Montreal".

I could care less who starts in net. Huet and Price are both beatlable, and if it weren't for Price having his toe in the right place at the right time last game Sid would've notched his first goal of the season and the score would've been tied at 3. Of course, that's just me being positive in my hindsight. Crosby was still 'warming up' at this point, so I think tonight's game is going to be entirely different.

Speaking of, this is the last chance for the Pens to snag a home victory before they embark on a nice little four game road trip, a trip that includes visits to Minnesota and Colorado before returning back to the east coast against the Islanders and Devils.

Both teams played a very disciplined game as far as penalties run in their last match. Not many powerplay opportunities were given to either team. After only giving the Habs two chances on the powerplay, the Penguins' penalty kill still managed to let one in, putting the Canadiens' PP unit at 1-2 on the night. The Pens' powerplay on the other hand managed only one goal on five chances. A powerplay goal tonight would make it the eleventh consecutive game in which the Penguins have notched a goal with the man advantage.

Some concern happens to also be on the Penguins and their scoring. The 5-4 win against the Ducks in the home opener and the 6-4 win over Toronto two games later were direct examples of the Penguins' offensive assault. Outside of those games, the Pens have been on a bit of a decline. Not to mention, the Pens also have this insatiable ability to only win games by one goal. Five of their nine games have been won by one goal, while two have been lost by the one. Needless to say, it's a bit stressful being a Pens fan and watching the clock tick down in the closing seconds of the third while holding a one goal lead.

Max Talbot practiced with the Pens the other day but is not expected to start tonight as he still has some soreness in his neck from the crash into the boards Thursday night. With that in mind, the Pens have called up Tyler Kennedy from the Wilkes-Barre Scranton club. Kennedy was a prospect hopeful during the preseason and now has his chance in the parent club. In six games with WBS, Kennedy is second on the team in scoring with three goals and two assists. Last season, Kennedy practically scored a point a game, tallying 37 in 40.

I really hope tonight's game is not another close one. I'd like to see the Pens hand the Canadiens a loss similar to the one the Leafs gave them the other night. If the offense wanted to hit the gas some time soon, then now wouldn't be a bad time. Winning at home before hitting the road is a nice boost to any team. Hopefully that is the boost the Pens can get after tonight's win.

Preview to the Preview

Normally around this time I'd post something along the lines of a preview between the Pens and the Canadiens. Only reason I'm putting this off until tomorrow is because the Canadiens have a game tonight against the Hurricanes and I want to see how they play.

Some things I can tell you that are going through my mind:

Is Price going to start tomorrow night?
Will we ever hear the end of how Price got his first career win at Pittsburgh?
How many times is Therrien going to keep messing with the lines, allowing only one game to be the test of its competence?

And...

How important is this win to the Pens before they embark on the road?

I'll get to those questions and more tomorrow morning, as I knock out another Pens preview. I'm also keeping my eye on Max Talbot, who is said to have injured his neck - not his head, as initially predicted. No further word as to whether he's expected in the lineup or not, but I'll stay on top of it and follow up again tomorrow. In the mean time, feel free to answer those questions yourself. I'd love to see what other Pens fans have to say.

Game of the night: Hurricane vs Canadiens


Insert whitty - I mean, cliche Price caption here.

Penguns fall to Leafs 5-2

Similar to the last game between these two teams, tonight's was a high-scoring affair as well. Instead of a combined effort though, it was entirely on the Leafs' part.

Had you watched the first two periods of this game, you would have had difficulty predicting 5-2 as the final score. Both teams came in to the third period tied at one, but the Leafs came out of intermission firing to a quick 3-1 lead. Before the 9 minute mark, it was 5-1.

I feel this is one of those games where you just ask yourself, "Where did they go wrong?" The defense was doing a great job, Fleury was looking pretty sharp and the offense was doing what they needed to stay in the game. Of course, you'd love to see the offense pull away with it early, but in a 1-1 tie you also don't want to get too over zealous.

Suddenly, out of nowhere I might add, the team started to turn over the puck in their own zone, fan on shots, lack all motivation on the powerplay and just looked like they were asleep on the ice. Not to mention, Gonchar almost cost the team a shorthanded goal earlier in the game when he mishandled and lost his balance on the blueline. Luckily, Fleury made a tremendous save to keep the puck out.

Toskala was strong in net for the Leafs, especially on the powerplay as he dodged the re-directs and cleaned out the garbage in front. With 5:09 left in the game, that would change. A Gonchar blast hit the mark on a 5 on 3 powerplay, to put the score at 5-2. The Pens tried to muster up another PP attack in the remaining five on four powerplay but failed to put enough shots on to do any damage. Regardless, the powerplay conversion puts the Penguins at 10 consecutive games with a goal on the man advantage.

A scary moment for the Penguins in the first period when Maxime Talbot went face first in to the boards as he hussled down for the icing call. After lying on the ice holding his head in obvious pain, like a true hockey player he walked to the dressing room under his own power. Talbot would later sit out the rest of the game.

Can't complain about this one; the Leafs won the game fair and square. Fleury didn't look bad in net, and I'll still give him my support for the next start against the Canadiens. On the other hand, the offense is going to have to pick up the pace. Again, the Penguins are not an overly defensive team. They rely heavily on offensive production to win their games. When the offense doesn't show up to the game, neither does the defense. On a normal night the Penguins' best defense IS their offense, which unfortunately cost them the game tonight. Of course that was not the case in the recent shutout against the Rangers, but that was also not a normal night.

I will say that the Penguins played a more disciplined game as far as penalties go. The Pens only took three penalties on the night, but the PK unit allowed the Leafs to convert once in the third period. On the other side, the Penguins were 1-6 on PP attempts. The Leafs continued to show why they are amongst the league's leader in penalty minutes.

With tonight's loss the Penguins drop to 5-4 on the season. Their next game is Saturday against Montreal where they hope to take one more at home before a four game field trip.

Penguins Goals

1st Period
Crosby from Malkin-Recchi

2nd Period
None

3rd Period
Gonchar from Crosby-Malkin PPG

Fleury - 22-27
Toskala- 23-25


Unfortunately, there was alot of this tonight...

Penguins vs Leafs preview

The Pens take on the Leafs for the second time this season tomorrow night in Pittsburgh. If the last time these two met up was any indication for the rest of the season's meetings, then I'd say we're in for another scoring frenzy.

Ten goals were scored between the two last game, as the Penguins rallied to win by the final of 6-4 after an empty netter from Maxime Talbot sealed the deal. Yet there is a lot both teams can take from the last meeting and hopefully improve and apply to tomorrow's game.

Penalties
The Pens took far too many penalties last game, giving the Leafs six chances to capitalize on the powerplay. Thankfully it was either a stellar performance by the Pens' PK or a weak performance by the PP unit from the Leafs that put Toronto at 0-6 on the night. Again, what would a Penguins' game be like without a too many men on the ice penalty?

The Leafs on the other hand took even more penalties than the Penguins and yet Pittsburgh converted only once on eight attempts. It wasn't so much even the number of penalty minutes that really hurt the Leafs, but instead the guys who served time. Nikolai Antropov, who'd made his size and presence known throughout the game accrued for 14 minutes on his own, 10 of which came in the last 50 seconds on a game misconduct. Either way, if you're pulling your goalie and using that extra attacker, you want a guy like Antropov up front instead of in the box to clear some space and go for the junk up front.

Powerplay-Penalty Kill
Both teams have quality powerplay units, and yet in their last meeting we only saw one powerplay goal out of the total 14 attempts. I guess it really says a lot when only 1 of the 10 goals scored was on the powerplay, with the rest coming on even strength and all, but the special teams are there for a reason and neither team used them effectively. In the Penguins' last game against the Rangers, it was the sole reason they came out 1-0 in the shutout. The Leafs' Antropov on the other hand, added a powerplay goal to help bring Toronto to a 4-4 shootout against the Thrashers, one they ultimately lost. The Leafs however did not allow a PP goal last game on Atlanta's five attempts. Clearly, both the Pens and Leafs bring a fantastic penalty kill unit to the ice, which justifies the lack of powerplay goals in their last meeting.

Goalies
Despite walking away with the win, Marc-Andre Fleury was outplayed by Vesa Toskala. If you needed any further proof, look at the shots counter on the night. The Leafs put 27 shots on net, hitting the mark four times. On the other end the Penguins left Toskala working his pads off, tallying 52 shots on the night and scoring five times (plus the empty netter). Toskala was basically at a 2 to 1 shot ratio compared to Fleury. Fleury did only let in 2 goals after filling in for Sabourin, but had the 52 shots been the other way around I'm sure I'm sure the Leafs would have walked away victorious somewhere along the lines of 10-4. Especially since Dany Sabourin was knocked out earlier in the game and noone would have been able to step in and relieve Fleury of his embarassment. I'd also like to think it's be the same sort of outcome had Raycroft been in net instead of Tosk, but here's to hoping that's the case tomorrow night. I'm also keeping my eyes on Brooks Orpik and Simon Gamache to see if the gloves drop following that hit that sent Orpik to the dressing room last game.

Overall, I'd say it's safe to say Fleury has warmed up a bit, coming off a shutout performance against the Rangers and a one goal night against the Caps three days before. In the two games combined, Fleury's stopped 66 of the 67 shots faced. Let's see how he holds up against the Leafs tomorrow night - he may just make me a believer afterall.

The Pens are off tonight, so I'm picking the Minnesota vs Calgary match as my game of the night. The Wild are off to an amazing start and it's great hockey to watch.


On fire? Or going through a phase?

Penguins shutout Rangers 1-0

If you'd told me last week that Fleury had a shutout in his eminent future I'd have said, "Yeah, ok." And then if you'd have said, "No seriously, a shutout against the Rangers next Tuesday", I would've explained how the Penguins are not a defensive minded team, and the closest they'd come to a shutout is letting in only one goal. But man, was I surprised tonight.

I'm going to be honest here, it's not to say the Rangers didn't play some good hockey. 36 shots on the night, including a bunch of heart-wrenching post shots which would have otherwise made the game a Rangers victory. Either way, Fleury was on top of his game and couldn't have looked better.

The defense on the other hand, could have done a little more. Now before you jump on me for being overly critical, no goalie should have to make 36 saves to secure a 1-0 shutout. Obviously goalies DO, but they let the Rangers test him far too much and thankfully he was up for the challenge. But this is the Penguins' defense we're talking about, and if it weren't for the Malkin powerplay goal in the second it'd be most likely a 0-0 shootout.

Speaking of, tough time to be a Rangers fan. Two straight shutouts, 130+ minutes of scoreless hockey, a powerplay line that can't convert, a goalie who only lets in one goal and still loses the game and a injury list building up with star forwards. Yeah, tough time indeed.

Brooks Orpik was all over tonight, crushing and flipping and slamming into the boards. Jordan Staal was a bit disappointing on that penalty shot following the Malkin goal. It looked like he just wanted to get it over with and head back to the faceoff. Recchi keeps getting one game closer to his geriatric walker and Christensen showed why he sits on the bench after choking on a breakway attempt that failed to even warrant a shot.

Penalty kill though? On. Fire. The PK units shutdown 10 powerplay attempts, not to say there wasn't some hope from the crossbar on two occasions, but we'll pretend that didn't happen.

On a personal note, I'd love to see a game go by where the Penguins actually show they know how to count. Can we get another too many men on the ice call please? I really love hearing that one. It's practically a game ritual at this point.

But, I suppose I'll take it. Afterall, three straight wins surely tops anything. Well, aside from four straight wins, which is what the team is hoping to do Thursday against the Leafs.

Penguins Goals

1st Period
None

2nd Period
Malkin from Crosby-Whitney

3rd Period
None

McD's ignoring Crosby?

There's allegedly some talk as to the new series of NHL cards co-sponsored by McDonald's and Upper Deck and how they ignored including Sid for the second year in a row.

Personally, I don't think he's being kicked to the wayside, but instead looked past because of his affiliation with Tim Horton's. Even in the most recent edition of McKeen's, there are page ads for Sid and Horton's. Perhaps it's just a conflict of interest on the part of McDonald's, or maybe it just makes complete and utter sense to not have Crosby as the voice of two different chains. It'd be like OJ Simpson as the spokesman of Hertz and Enterprise, only without the murder.

Besides; come on now. Gatorade, Pepsi, Horton's, Reebok...I think he's doing enough. And on top of that, each of those requires time and commitment to photo and commercial shoots, so I'd say on top of an 82 game season Sid has enough on his plate.

On to tonight's game; tune in early at 6:30 to watch Sidney Crosby revealed. It should be an interesting documentary. Hopefully the NHL will take this approach with other rising stars around the league. My next pick would be the obvious Ovechkin, but I'd also like to see something on Patrick Kane from Chicago or the Wilds' Backstrom.

And as a tribute to the greats of the past (and present if your a Pens fan), check out this article on NHL.com that talks about Mario and his fight against cancer. On a similar note, the Penguins will be using tonight as their night to work with the Hockey Fights Cancer campaign.

I think the most badass thing about hockey players is they have no problem rocking the pink attire for a good cause. Where's football and basketball on this one?

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Just spreadin my wings a bit...

Penguins vs Rangers preview

Prior to the first puck dropping during the first game for the first time this season, all eyes in the Eastern Conference were on these two teams. The Rangers and their offseason shopping spree had the media buzzing to the sounds of playoff contention. The Penguins with their turnaround season the previous year, were also ranked with the Rangers as not only division rivals, but also conference winning contenders. Ah yes, it seemed the season was already played out in people's heads, and there was no changing that.

So now, heading in to their eigth game of the season, it would certainly come as a surprise to Rangers fans (and I suppose hockey fans in general) everywhere to see their team second to last, only three points ahead of none other than the Atlanta Thrashers in the east, ironically enough the same team they knocked out of the first round of the playoffs in 06/07. Perhaps being shutout once against Ottawa, again against Boston this past weekend, and held to only one goal in two other games really makes it seem like the team hasn't gelled yet. Regardless as to whether Gomez or Drury is wearing the same number as last season, one thing is obvious: at this rate, neither is really on pace to put 19; or even 23 goals this season.

Chris Drury, second on the team with 1 goal and six points, has yet to really hit the gas. Gomez, with 2 goals and three points, has also failed on great opportunities with open net shots that would have otherwise had him as the team's leading goal scorer. Factor in these stats to the remainder of the season, and you'll see Drury with 12 goals and 58 assists, while Gomez is on track for 23 goals and 12 helpers. Combined, they'll barely hit over 100 points.

Considering Brierre and Drury paired up for 164 total points last season, it goes without saying that Gomez and Drury have to really pick up the pace. Hopefully, that won't be tomorrow against the Pens.

I'll be honest, there's no better team to test your scoring abilities on then the Penguins. Giving up 24 goals in 7 games is not something any defense will brag about. But it's their offense that gets them wins, while it's the Rangers' defense that secures theirs.

Lundqvist isn't looking half bad. There's no doubt he's one of the better goalies in the league, but there's little faith in his teams offensive production. In turn, the two games in which he held the opposition to only two goals is still marked as a loss, and his shutout performance against the Bruins was all for none as he ended the night with a shootout loss.

So really, what should the Penguins focus on come Tuesday night? Well, just because Drury and Gomez aren't lighting up the net, doesn't mean they should go ignored. Not to mention, Jagr is still rolling his wheels as the team's leading scorer with one goal and seven assists.

It's all about watching the rebounds and tip-ins. Jagr will be the one trying to cash in, but Drury will be right there for the loose change. We're gonna need some muscle down low to bully Drury out of the crease, and some pressue on the boards to keep Jagr at bay.

As far as Rangers' blueliners go, they don't pack much of a shot. Roszival leads the Rangers' defenders with 2 goals, but only had a career high 10 last season. The Pens waved goodbye to him in 2003, and I'm sure there's no regret on that move.

Luckily Sean Avery is still out of the line-up, because when he's back from his shoulder injury is when I feel the Rangers will start rollin again. Sure, say what you want about defensive forwards, but if there's one thing a team with poor offense needs, it's some fore-checking from a guy like Avery to keep the puck in the zone.

Ah yes, and the young, magnificent Marc Staal will be playing his younger brother Jordan. From a personal standpoint I find Marc to be a fantastic defender, but if you ask the game announcers they'll say it's true love. Every time he touches the puck, it's an over zealous compliment. I would've at least waited till he had a point on the season.

Shanahan is playing for the salary he's making. Ask a Ranger fan and they'll tell ya he took the cut for the better of the team. Interrogate Shanny enough, and he'll be sure to tell ya he thought doing so would allow him to ride the season out to the cup under the wings of Gomez and Drury.

As a final consideration, the Rangers will not miss the playoffs. It's impossible for them to do so. They really just have to wait and click, which for the sake of Penguins fans will not happen tomorrow. Lundqvist is beatable, as proven by the worst team in the NHL the other night. But he's also relatively unstoppable, as evidenced in his regulation and overtime play against the Bruins Saturday night. You have to hit him with shots, capitalize on powerplays and avoid a goalie duel with Fleury, because a guy like him only needs a single goal from his team to win.



Denied...

Pens Beat Caps 2-1

Consider it to be a little bit out of character for a Pittsburgh Penguins squad that has on average scored three goals a game this year to win by the score of 2-1. But hey, they'll take it.

The Penguins improved to 4-3 on the season with a road victory in DC. The defense did their best to contain Ovechkin, but he still managed to get off 9 shots. That is why full credit goes to Fleury on the night, for shutting down Ovechkin and stopping 30 shots after having last night off.

On the other side of the rink, Brent Johnson got the start over Oli Kolzig in what some deem to be a gametime decision. Johnson went 20 of the 22 shots faced, but it wasn't enough as his offense failed to put anything other than a Pothier goal on the board halfway through the first.

Crosby picked up another point on the night, with a powerplay assist to Whitney for his second on the season.

Laraque and Brashear, no strangers to dropping the gloves, threw down early in to the third. Laraque landed some solid shots, until a late rally from Brashear sent them both crashing to the ice in what some may hail an even match.

Even the youngin' Jordan Staal got in to a scuffle, taking the brunt of Pettinger's punches straight to the head. The fight was short-lived, but Staal certainly earned his wings.

The Penguins powerplay was 1-5 on the night, while the Capitals went scoreless on three attempts. The Caps have now lost four straight, after shooting out of the gate at the beginning of the season with three consecutive victories.

The Pens also did a much better job tonight of avoiding the box, which is hopefully something they consider for the remainder of the season.

Penguins Goals

First Period
None

Second Period
Staal from Recchi - Orpik
Whitney from Crosby - Malone PPG

Third Period
None

Fleury : 30-31
Johnson: 20-22

Pens beat Canes 4-3 in shootout win Pens vs Caps Preview

First off, sorry for the late update. I'd imagine if you're a Pens fan you already have the scoring info by now. But alas, I had a wedding last night and just finished watching the DVR'd game so I'll pretend it all just happened.

Good to see Sabourin get his 2nd (but according to me first) official start of the season. I'm willing to put that last one completely behind me for two reasons. One, he just wasn't in the zone and two; we pulled away with a win anyways so I can't hold it against him.

Was Sykora hot or what? It's hard to gauge how this guy plays night in and night out. On one hand, he played amazingly with the stints in his nose against Anaheim in the home opener. Now, he's putting up the same numbers with them out. The guys intensity is off the charts.

Crosby really seems to be finding his form, after starting off to a bit of a shaky start. Two more assists, including the one on Sykora's PPG in the second, put him at 6 on the year for 8 points in 6 games. Hall also came up big with his first of the year, after racking up an assist in the loss against NJ.

But let's get to the best part. I bet we could go on for ages on discussing the shootout and whether it is the true way to measure a team's ability to win. A lot of people believe if the better team couldn't pull it out on the ice during regulation and OT, then no one should have the benefit of a win. This is, however, the new NHL and this is what, according to the league, makes things exciting. I'm going to be biased when I say, it's cool - as long as the Pens win.

To say the Pens blew threw the shootout is an understatement. They make Ward look like a fool, especially when Crosby deked him out of his pads. Even still, Ward's record on the season is 4-0-2, as he's still yet to lose a regulation game.

Overall the team looked good, if not better than the Devils game. I have to admit that the scoreless third, especially winding down in to the closing minutes, really had me biting my nails. Thankfully, I didn't spoil the ending for myself by checking a score last night. I'm learning how to become disciplined.

The Pens took less penalties this game, but six still isn't easy to deal with. However, the PK unit was able to hold the Canes to only one goal on five attempts. Likewise, the Hurricanes kept the Penguins' PP in check, allowing only one in seven.

Happy to pull away with the win in this one. The last thing I wanted to see was a 2-3-1 record. With this win, the Pens are back up to .500 on the season at 3-3.

Now, on to tonight, where hopefully we can see a 4-3 record in about 9 hours.

The Penguins take to the road tonight, heading out to DC to faceoff against the Capitals. And you know what comes to mind when you hear that team name - Ovechkin.

Yet, perhaps Ovechkin isn't the biggest concern for the struggling Pens D. I mean, sure, he's no doubt a threat, but this is a game where they can really get their self-esteem. Shutting down Ovi isn't the biggest concern, because as you've seen in the past, double-teaming Crosby only opens up the lanes for other guys. The Caps HAVE those other guys.

Take a look at these names, you'll be seeing them tonight.

Nicklas Backstrom - he has four assists in six games. I wouldn't be surprised if he started shooting more, but I'd prefer it not be tonight.

Chris Clark - Hey, the guy's scoreless in six games, but that doesn't mean he's not a threat. Last season he put up 30 goals and 24 assists in 74 games. He'll click soon.

Donald Brashear - You won't really hear this guy scoring many goals or dishing out assists, but from where the Pens stand this might be their proverbial diamond in the rough. The guy can't stay out of the penalty box. Last year alone he tallied 156 minutes in 77 games. As long as he doesn't draw the penalties himself, he's bound to work to the Penguins' advantage.

And of course, Michael Nylander - the former Ranger who warranted boos from the Garden crowd when the Caps came to town. He was a solid player last year with the Rangers, and is proving to do the same with the Caps so far this year.

So, the keys to success? Time and time again I'll say, stay out of the box. I think I'll just get to a point, I at least hope, where this is simply understood. But maybe I'll digress when the team actually starts heeding that advice.

I think the real key to a win on the night is to eye Ovechkin and Nylander. I know with the constant line pairings and changes Therrien has been throwing out there, it's probably going to be a different defender on Ovi through the course of the night. But if I had to choose one guy to do it, I'd go with Orpik. He's a royal pain to attackers and may even manage to draw a penalty from the highly irritable Ovechkin. I know staying out of the box is a big deal for the Pens, but eliminating their scorers with penalty minutes works just as good.

As for Nylander, he's going to crash the center. He has a really accurate shot and won't have a problem finding the open net on Fleury if left untouched. With that in mind, the D is going to have to jam the center and either eliminate lanes from him, all the while eyeing the puck and avoiding quick drops to a speedy Ovechkin flying down the wing.

It's not going to be an easy game, but it's by far one of the better teams the Penguins will face this year (next to the Senators and perhaps even the Rangers - if they can prove anything other than they have big names). The Pens overcome this one, and that'll give them the push they need heading back to Pittsburgh to meet with the Rangers Tuesday night.


I wonder if Semin gave Ovechkin the pie facial...

Pens vs Canes preview

The Staal brothers will be at it again tomorrow night in Pittsburgh, as the Canes visit the Pens for what will be the second meeting of the season. Hopefully this time around, little brother Jordan can outplay, or at least shutdown his older brother Eric. In the season opener, Eric netted two goals in a 4-1 victory in front of the Carolina crowd. Perhaps it'll be a different story at Mellon.

It better be. For all intensive purposes, this is a pretty rough little stretch for the Penguins - three games in four days. Starting it all off with a loss to the Devils the other night doesn't help much either.

If you take a look at the Hurricanes, they're no doubt a force to be reckoned with. You still have the 16 year vet Brindamour to factor in to the already powerful equation of Eric Staal + Eric Cole = trouble. Having Cam Ward secure the pipes isn't exactly a bad touch either.

The Penguins are most definitely going to need to take far less penalties than the last game, especially from guys like Sykora and Crosby who are much more beneficial on the ice than in the box.

I say the approach the offense takes is similar to the approach you'd take with Brodeur - lots of shots and even more tip-ins and re-directs in front of the net. It really is the only way to beat great goalies, unless of course Gonchar doesn't mind teeing up another one from the blueline to beat the goalie glove-side. Those are always pretty too.

Some other names on the Canes you're gonna hear a lot on Friday. Cory Stillman, who has been on fire hitting from all over the place in the past 3 games. Matt Cullen, the former Ranger who apparantly did what former Rangers do best; play better on another team. And finally Justin Williams, who in six games has 1 goal and 7 assists. His only goal, ironically enough, came in his two point performance on opening night against the Penguins.

The main objective: shutdown Eric Staal, watch out for Stillman in front of the net, and lay on a flurry of shots towards Ward. I know it may seem like basic hockey fundamentals, but thus far the only game that has really worked in their favor like this has been the Toronto win, and even that was close till the emptynetter.

I really feel like this is a tough game to win, but not impossible. Ward is playing like a Stanley Cup netminder, and his offense is doing a heck of a lot to take some pressure off him. I can't say whether I think this game is going to be another scoring frenzy or not, because I don't think Ward is going to let many by. But if it does turn out to be one, then Fleury better be on his best play because it's going to be another close 10+ goal game.

And although I hate to touch on the topic for the sheer fact it is just so over-talked NHL.com did a little piece on the heated debated of Crosby vs Ovechkin. You can read it here if you'd like, and feel free to comment on this site.


Sometimes I wonder if his face is more intimidating to a goalie than his shot...

Pens falls to Devils 5-4

20 minutes. That's how much time the Penguins spent inside the penalty box. Ten penalties; 20 minutes. If you really break it down, we practically gave the Devils an extra period to work with.

Both teams combined for 5 powerplay goals, in this penalty-ridden game. The Penguins converted 3 times on 5 attempts, while the Devils were 2 for 7. All in all, a great performance by the Penguins' powerplay unit.

Once again the issue tonight was poor management in our own zone. Lanes were left wide open for Zach Parise, who set up three on the night, and the inability to clear in such situations led to detrimental turnovers and ultimately conversions from the Devils.

The score was well on its way to being tied on a Malkin goal from Staal on the breakaway, but the Penguins were penalized for too many men on the ice. The goal was called off, but at this point the arena was absolutely insane. Cups, programs, paper; whatever people could think of throwing wound up on the ice. Such is the frustration when your team takes six straight penalties.

All in all, the third period proved to be better played and less penalty ridden then the previous ones, but if you ask me, at this point the damage was already done. Brodeur shutout the Pens on their only 5 shot attempts in the third to ultimately seal the deal for the Devils.

If I had to highlight the Penguins for anything on the night, I'd say the powerplay did a phenomenal job compared to previous attempts in other games. Gonchar was firing from the blueline, netting one and assisting on another coming from the tip-in on his howitzer shot. Crosby assisted two of the three PP goals, while Malkin had a goal of his own.

Despite letting in 5 goals, Fleury looked a lot better in net tonight. I still stand by my statement when I say that there was an interference call on (Gionta?), but the goal stood because the penalty was not called and is ultimately not reviewable with the replay.

What the Penguins really have to do is work better in their own end. Again, this game is evidence to the fact that you can't win games by relying strictly on goals, especially when the other team has Brodeur between the pipes. Granter Brodeur hasn't started this season to the best of his abilities, but he somehow magically manages to play incredibly well against the Penguins.

Final thought: It's a tough loss, but I'll take it. The game was bound to be a neck and neck competition, but this time around the Devils came out on top. There's still seven more meetings on the season, and I'm really looking forward to what the next game has in store for these two teams.

Penguins Goals

Italicized = PP
1st Period
Talbot from Whitney - Roberts
Roberts from Gonchar - Sykora

2nd Period
Gonchar from Crosby - Malkin
Malkin from Crosby - Gonchar

3rd Period
None

Fleury : 30-35
Brodeur : 26-30

Game Notes

Despite getting his brain rattled Saturday night, Brooks Orpik is expected to play, as is fellow defenseman Daryl Sydor. Sydor is coming off a groin injury, bringing him to partake in light skate sessions during practice.

Although Sabourin has been cleared from the stitches to the head, Coach Therrien has hinted Fleury will get the start in net tonight. Georges Laraque remains day to day with a sore groin, only skating 20 minutes in the most recent practice. Should Orpik or Sydor not be able to play, Alain Nasreddine will get his first start of the season. Nasreddine is coming off a conditioning assignment with the WBS club, where he tallied a point and a handful of penalty minutes.

That's it for now. Should anything change before faceoff I'll be on it.

Pens vs Devs preview

Tomorrow night the Penguins take on the Devils in front of the home crowd in Pittsburgh. We'll most likely be seeing Orpik (concussion) and Laraque (groin) on the bench, with Nasreddine and Ruutu in place for them respectively. Sydor (groin) is also listed as day to day, but is expected to play.

For years Martin Brodeur has been the name one automatically associates with the Devils. So far this year, he hasn't exactly been what some call 'sharp'. In fact, in an odd change of events, the Devils recently found themselves needing to score goals in a neck and neck competition, in addition to a prior shutout against the Panthers. In other words, it's been hard to rely heavily on the netminding and defensive core. Their most recent victory came over the Thrashers Saturday night, pulling out a 6-5 victory after at one point being down 4-2. Three of New Jersey's goals came on the powerplay, putting them at 3 for 7 on the night. From a Penguins perspective, this could be disasterous.

I think it goes without saying that with most games, the less time you spend in the box the better chance you have of winning. The Leafs took a lot of penalties the ther night against the Penguins, and frankly even the Penguins took more than a few against the Leafs. The big difference came in the Penguins keeping the Leafs scoreless on 6 powerplay attempts, while the Penguins' PP unit converted only once on seven attempts.

With that in mind, factor in the Penguins' most recent penalty kill with the Devils' most recent powerplay squad and it's hard to predict the outcome. Can the Penguins hold off on the penalty kill? Will the Devils be just as hot with the man advantage heading in to tomorrow's game? Unfortunately numbers can't decide that, and it's going to come down to Eaton blocking shots, deflections in front and most importantly, Fleury's performance in net.

A lot of people like to look at special teams as the main emphasis in a game, especially one as high scoring as the last Devils game. But consider this: the Devils only allowed one powerplay goal form the Thrashers. That means four of them came on even strength, which to me is even more impressive than scoring with the advantage. Even still, the special teams for the Devils is what won the game for them, with an Elias goal in the third with 28 seconds remaining in the 5-5 tie. So again, I may sound like I'm covering all ground here but it's still hard to say what will be the deciding factor in tomorrow's game.

What do I predict? Well, considering both of the Penguins' wins have come with 5 or more goals, I'm going to say it'll be high scoring. I don't expect another 52 shot attack on Brodeur because I think the Devils defense is much better than that of the Leafs. I feel that the Devils will get at least one on us with the man advantage, and I'm hoping that will be it.

Last year the Penguins did manage to shut the Devils out in New Jersey 3-0, but New Jersey would later turn that around and shut the Penguins out 1-0 in Pittsburgh. I don't expect a shutout from either team tomorrow, and will go with a final score of 5-3 Pittsburgh, with the fifth goal coming on the empty net.

Here's to another Pens victory, and hopefully a pain-free one for the already hobbling squad.

Orpik cleared to play...injuries abound

Well it's a little after 2am, but I just got word that Brooks Orpik did suffer a concussion Saturday night via a Simon Gamache fist to the face, but has been cleared to play tomorrow against the Devils. I can honestly say it wasn't an intentional hit, but I suppose some people would beg to differ. From where I see it, Gamache saw Orpik barreling in toward him, and put his hands up in defense. The hand just happened to clock Orpik right in the face, knocking him out cold and not warranting a penalty. Either way, he is cleared but I still believe Nasreddine will play in his first start of the season. It couldn't hurt.

But speaking of hurt, Georges Laraque has been dealing with some groin pain, as he's listed day to day. Daryl Sydor has also been fighting through the same prognosis, but is expected to play tomorrow night.

Danny Sabourin got four stitches to his head following the collision with Darcy Tucker Saturday night. Needless to say, he won't be playing, as Fleury gets the nod despite working through a sore finger. All things considered, MA-F can fight through it. His injury is pretty lax compared to other guys on the team.

Going to get around to the Devils preview later today - just wanted to get this word out ASAP.

No word on Orpik...break before Devils

There's hansn't be any word what so ever on Brooks Orpik since he blacked out on the ice Saturday night. By the looks of things it's a concussion, but I've heard nothing as of yet if Therrien plans to put him in the line-up or not for Wednesday night against the Devils.

Speaking of, the Penguins have a nice period of time here to relax and shape up from that win against the Leafs. Personally, I'd rather they didn't have 4 days between games, especially after coming off a road win. I'd almost like to see them roll right in to the next town and keep going with it. Yet, when one of your hardest hitting defenseman is out with a 'brain tweak', I don't mind the time off.

Mark Recchi is looking to get his hand in on an ownership deal, only it's not going to be with the Penguins. Recchi and Daryl Sydor, along with other NHL stars Shane Doan of the Coyotes, Jarome Iginla of the Flames and a Vancouver-based businessman by the name of Tom Gaglardi are looking to all share ownership of the Western Hockey League's Kamloops Blazers. The connection comes from Sydor and Recchi both having played for Kamloops and wanting to preserve the team's heritage and keep it based in the hometown. Businessman Tom Gaglardi is also trying to purchase the Vancouver Canucks.

Finally, on more of a side note, Mike Lang's broadcasts just get on my nerves sometimes. Then again, I've always had an issue with people who do their own color commentary. Don't get me wrong, if I'm listening and hear a goal I give a fist pump or something of that nature, but the last thing to cross my mind is a line like "Slap me silly Sidney" or "Let's go hunt Moose on a Harley." It just doesn't strike me as powerful commentary. I often just wind up shaking my head and saying "What?" Borderline buzz kill.

Come tomorrow we'll take a look at the Devils of 07, and see what the Penguins have to look forward to on Wednesday night. Till then, let's hope Orpik is in good shape for the game, and I'll keep my eyes and ears open on any word going around.

Pens beat Leafs 6-4

Man, was the offense hot tonight. 52 shots at Toskala compared to the 27 unleashed by Toronto, and they were only 1 for 7 on the powerplay! Excuse me, let me preface that as being a PITIFUL 1 for 7. And Malkin - what did I tell you about shooting? Always trying to make it look pretty when all we need are some goals.

Lots of firsts tonight, like Crosby's first goal of the season. It came on a shot deflected off a Leafs' leg, but hey, we'll take it. He'd later net another one on a rebound in front of the net. Crosby also got in to his first 'tiff' of the season, with the towering Antropov. Although it would almost appear like a fight was about to break-up, the NHL's refs did a good job to make sure our pretty boy wouldn't get hurt. Thank you front office.

Sabourin got his first start of the season as well. Gotta say, as much as I was hoping and waiting for this day, I began to think twice when I saw how his performance ranked in just a few short minutes. After letting in two goals, Fleury looked like the better option. Unfortunately that opportunity came sooner than later after Sabourin collided with Tucker during a Brooks Orpik check. Perhaps this game made me a Fleury believer afterall. Orpik would later leave dazed and confused from the ice, with his eyes practically rolled in to the back of his skull.

And finally, the Penguins' first road win.

I'm stoked that the offense mounted as many shots as they did, but again it was all about survival. When you give up 4 goals, you have to come back stronger and they did just that. Talbot, who scored his first goal in the last game against Montreal, also popped in two tonight, including one of which was shorthanded on to an open net.

The Pens did everything right tonight, including the penalty kill. The Leafs, despite having six attempts with the man advantage, were unable to convert on the night. But that just goes to show you how much of a team they are to capitalize on even strength attempts. Antropov...that dude is a giant when he comes crashing down on net.

Uncertain as to Orpik's situation, but it may have been a good time to at least have Nasreddine train with WBS. It might just wind up being the perfect thing to put him in to the line-up. Of course, I've been a Letang supporter since camp, and I wouldn't be the least bit upset to see him called up for a game or two. Yet, let's hope all is fine with Orpik and we don't have to keep our heavy hitter on the bench for long.

Penguins Goals

1st period
Christensen from Hall

2nd period
Crosby from Sykora - Gonchar
Talbot from Roberts - Hall
Malone from Staal - Malkin

3rd period
Crosby from Sydor - Malkin
Talbot - no assist

Sabourin - 4-6
Fleury - 19-21

Pens vs Leafs preview

Perhaps the biggest thing working in the Leafs' favor heading in to this Saturday's game is the motivation that comes from a 8-1 win. Just last night, Mats Sundin also surpassed club records for most goals and most points, 390 and 917 respectively. Tell me how you can slow a guy down after a feat like that on top of a monstrous win. I'd like to know.

Let's hope, for the sake of Pens fans, that Toskala gets the start in net. He's 1-2 on the season, giving up nearly 4 goals a game. Last night's win saw Raycroft in net, so perhaps they'll switch duties come Saturday.

With that being said, let's talk about how the Pens have to stop the offense.

Oddly enough, I feel the biggest threat comes from the blueline. McCabe and Kaberle both possess huge shots. As long as they put it on net, it may be in Fleury's best interest to either freeze the puck or at the least kick it to the corner so as not to unleash the animal within Sundin, Stajan or Steen on the rebound.

I predict this game to also be relatively high scoring, similar to the home opener against the Ducks. Neither team really has a solid netminder, despite Raycroft setting aside 30 of 31 shots against the Islanders. So far this season, Fleury has let in a minimum of 3 goals a game. If he does get the start this Saturday night against the Leafs, then he's going to have to do better than that. I think the fans, especially Coach Therrien, wants to see this guy step up and stop the puck. Sabourin has my vote for tomorrow's game, but should he not start then it's a definite must-win situation for MA Fleury.

Another concern of mine comes, again, in the defense. The Pens have allowed far too many shots, and even though Eaton has taken more than a few to the chest and shins in attempts to block, they're going to have to do a better job if they want to keep the puck out. Let's hope the Leafs don't unleash another barage of shots similar to last night, whereby they sent 42 shots on nets with 8 finding the mark.

Now the Leafs' powerplay is also pretty hot, converting at 33% last night. Not to mention, they also netted a shorthanded goal. With three goals coming from their special teams, it's no doubt something to keep the Pens on their toes, but more importantly out of the box.

Which leads me to my final point. Less penalties means less goals, and by that I mean, coming from the opposition. Keep out of the box and keep the puck out. This also means they should draw that penalty from Tucker, and refrain from retribution on his cheap shots. He's an instigator and a dirty player, the Pens can't allow themselves to fall in to that trap. At least in the worst case scenario, Roberts gives him a lesson in fighting and they each get five.

Pens are on their way to Toronto, so my game of the night: Capitals vs Rangers. 7pm EST.


At least we have somethin on Leafs fans - like, a sense of style and interest in women...

Alain Nasreddine...

Alain Nasreddine was sent down today in order to partake in a conditioning assignment with the WBS team. Nasreddine, who hasn't played so far this year, played in 44 games last season with the Pens. With the recent struggles on defense, I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if this was Coach Therrien's idea of a threat. In other words, you guys better step it up, because we all know there's another batch of players in the AAA club waiting for action.

Speaking of, some word around various message boards right now think Nasreddine's move down is an opportunity for the highly praise Kris Letang to take a step up. I don't doubt now would be a good time to take the chance. Letang stepped up for seven games last season, netting 2 goals, both on the powerplay. How ironic...the powerplay needs some work. Gonchar's shot hasn't really been on so far this year, and I think if you move Gonch to the second PP line with Staal, Christensen and Malkin it'd be a more formidable outlet for Letang to dominate on the first line.

Keep in mind, first line powerplay is nothing short of intimidation. They've just yet to really click so far this season. If you ask me, having Crosby, Recchi, Malkin, Whitney and a Letang shot moving in on you with a man down is any goalie's worst nightmare. Of course, Therrien has really been mixing things up with the lines, so all of this could be for none.

Eaton has, in my opinion, been the strongest defender we have. You wanna talk about sacrificing your body? This guy has thrown himself down in front of so many shots you'd think he has some bullet holes to prove it. Fact is, I wouldn't be surprise if the guy goes this season with a permanent puck shaped bruise in the center of his chest. Against Anaheim the guy was unreal, especially on his 4 blocked shots in a single barrage right in front of Fleury. He walked away relatively unscathed, save a scratch to the chin. Even last night he took his share of shots off the shins and chest. I say Eaton has my vote to be on the first PK unit.

Tomorrow we'll take a look at the Leafs of 07, and see what the Pens have cut out for them on Saturday. Tah.

Pens fall to Habs...the Price is wrong b*tch

There are a million things to talk about when you look at a loss like this. First off, Malkin has GOT to shoot the puck more. Now, I'm not knocking his assist to Talbot, but I am saying that with 20 seconds left in the game, down by one with an extra attacker, you don't drop a pass to the crowded center of the ice, you shoot it.

All in all, better presence by the PK unit this game, although it did give up a goal. On a similar note, nice work by Whitney on the PP in the first to tap in an otherwise clearable puck.

I think it's also safe to say that the refs kept the whistles to a minimum this game. And when I say minimum, I mean, they left this in the locker room after the second period. There were easily two missed calls on Malkin take-downs, and the more than obvious holding call on Malone.

Fleury makes me nervous. The second the puck leaves on a shot, I hold my breath. He's so shaky in the net, and he's very easy to set off. He seemed stable in the first, but gradually disippated as the game wore on. It's almost like he's thinking "Well, I just gave up a goal, game over." You don't play for the shutout, you play for the win man!

Speaking of, Carey Price records his first NHL win with this 3-2 victory. He apparantly possesses the very thing that sticks a dagger in the heart of the Pens - the ability to stop the puck. Crosby dinged two off the post this game, and had a grand opening to the net on a mishandled puck by Price but was unable to capitalize on the attempt.

I wrote earlier that the key to winning this game was containing Kovalev. Well, it happened for all but one goal of the game. For most of the night Brooks Orpik was the man sticking Kovi, but Ryan Whitney over-committed on a play in the Canadiens' zone, leading Kovalev to a breakaway goal. Again, it's almost like I could forsee the goal happening before it even left the stick with Fleury in net.

I'm all for a Sabourin start against the Leafs on Saturday. It's more than obvious that Fleury is off to a nervous start. So, sit the guy for a game or two and let Sabourin get the time. If anything, at least it will scare Fleury in to working for job security.

Highlight of the night? Roberts slamming Plekanac's face (not 100% sure on who it was from the Habs)right in to the boards. You could actually see him reaching in to check for teeth. Scary Gary at it again.

Penguins' Goals
2nd Period
PPG Whitney from Recchi and Crosby

3rd Period
Talbot from Malkin and Recchi

Fleury 32-35

Pre-game 411 - Pens vs Canadiens

Crosby will start tonight, after sitting out practice on Monday with a sore ankle brought on by a shot Saturday night against the Ducks. It's also looking like Ruutu will be scratched again tonight in favor of Adam Hall, whereas there is no official as of yet if Nasreddine will play for Scuderi.

For the Habs, Carey Price makes his NHL debut in goal. Price has performed phenomenely in all levels of play, as evident by his Calder Cup win with the Hamilton Bulldogs this past season. We'll see how he fairs tonight against the Pens, as we can expect to see a more potent offense and HOPEFULLY a stronger penalty kill. If the Pens want to win this game they have to turn off Koivu and Kovalev and capitalize on some powerplay advantages.

Jeffrey Signs

The Pens continued to build for the future today, as they signed Dustin Jeffrey to a three year entry level contract. Jeffrey was selected in the 6th round by the Penguins, and showed a lot of heart and promise during the preseason and team scrimmages.

Jeffrey joins the core of youngins on the team, at the ripe age of 19. In the prospect tourney in Kitchener, Jeffrey led the team in scoring with 5 points. He's spent the last three season in the OHL, scoring 155 points in 190 games. In five games this season, Jeffrey led the team with four goals and eight assists. In his most recent game on Sunday, Jeffrey scored 6 points (1 goal and 5 assists).

Where will he fit in the line-up? We'll have to see. My guess is he'll be spend this season in Wilkes-Barre. Perhaps, though, this signing to WBS means someone from there will be coming up soon. Will keep you posted. If I had to pick though, and I've always been a supporter of him so I'm somewhat biased, but I'd say Letang. We need the help on defense, that is apparant already. Even if he's not going to put on a barrage of shots or rack up a ton of goals, we can hope his defensive nature can keep a puck or two out of the net.

Speaking of the defense, there's been talk of Scuderi possibly getting scratched and replaced by Nasreddine. Ruutu had this done to him last game, as he was replaced by Hall, no doubt for his collection penalty minutes in the season opener. I think whatever Therrion needs to do to wake up that defense is a good move in my book, or blog for that matter.

Pens vs Habs preview

The Pens take on the Canadiens this Wednesday night for the first time this season. At least, when it counts. In the two preseason games against the Habs, each team took a win, with a former Penguins generously handing us that overtime loss.

Alexei Kovalev (or as he is known now, simply Alex) [why?] scored in game one of the preseason on a pass from Mark Streit with under 30 seconds remaining before a shootout decision. In that same game, Kovalev also assisted the two other goals for a Canadiens 3-2 win. To say the struggling Pens defense will have to contain Kovalev is certainly an understatement.

Speaking of, the defense has spent far too much time idling around the net. Although I don't expect (nor do I want) them to over-commit to the puck, they hardly even play the man. There is no pressure on to the boards to push the puck out, and the other team is spending far too much time putting shots on net towards Marc "Still Waiting To Find My Groove"-Andre Fleury. If the Pens want to play this way Wednesday night, then they best be putting up 7 goals if they hope to even stay in it.

Continuing with the Habs, we'll look at threat number two - Saku Koivu. In game one against the Hurricanes he netted two powerplay goals, one of which proved to be the overtime game winner. If Koivu and Kovalev hit the Pens on the powerplay, then the PK unit is going to have their work cut out for them. Ideally I'd like to see Talbot and Staal working the corners in the Habs' zone, eating up time and controlling the play. In the last game against Anaheim, Talbot showed some good work on the PK unit. I'd like to see a repeater.

The Canadiens' defense, led primarily by goaltender Cristobal Huet, is nothing short of average. In the Habs' 3-2 preseason victory over the Pens, Huet faced 12 shots, giving up zero goals before Yann Danis got his shot. Danis let in 2 goals on 9 shots while Huet let in none. In game two, Huet was scratched from the line-up. Coincidentally, the Pens and Canadiens have each struggled a bit in the defensive area. Both Fleury and Huet are easily flustered when faced with a barrage of shots, and I'd expect to see nothing less in this contest.

On to the Penguins.

There's no better time than now for Crosby to step up and show us how he brought home the hardware last season. Everyone predicts and expects and suspects and whatever you wanna say that he's going to have a 120+ season. But if he keeps playing at the rate of hardly one point every two games, he's on track for a 41 - 60 point season. I want to see, at the least, a goal and an assist Wednesday night.

Now for the Fleury situation. There's been a lot of talk about how much longer Therrion is going to keep him in net. The way I see it; it's only game three. Give him two more, and I genuinely mean that. Give him two more games to find his groove, and if he doesn't improve yank 'em and put in Sabourin. If there is one player on the Penguins roster who I've inherently doubted, it's Fleury. I personally have never perceived him to be a franchise goalie, and I see him in the same light as Ken Wregget and Patrick Lalime. On a similar note, he'd have to find a home on a high-scoring team if he hopes to play elsewhere and collect some wins. In other words, he better pull himself together and stick it out with the Pens if he ever hopes to touch the cup.

I predict a highly offensive contest Wednesday night, and I'm going to go on a whim and say Pens win 4-3. Not only will Sykora have the stints out of his newly remodeled nose, and Crosby hopefully playing at 100% by then, but the home crowd will hopefully carry them to another victory.

Crosby OK, but not 100%

After taking a shot off the ankle last night, the sold-out crowd inside Mellon Arena gasped in unison as Crosby skated off to the bench. With his face wretching in pain and an obvious favor of the left leg, it almost seemed like the 2007 season was about to take a tumultuous turn.

Luckily, it's just a bruise. According to Coach Therrion, Crosby is not seriously hurt, but he's also not 100%. Of course, the next game isn't till Wednesday at home against the Canadiens, so he has plenty of time to rest.

Also somewhat winded on the night was the three point scoring Petr Sykora. Sykora, who broke his nose early in the preseason after colliding with Brooks Orpik, played last night's game with two stints up his nostrils. If in case you ever wondered what it was like, try sticking a q-tip up each nostril and playing hockey for 60 minutes. You tend to get winded pretty quickly. But hey, apparantly it didn't show in his place, and frankly if he's going to play that way under those conditions, I say we jam a stint up his nose every game and consider passing it on to other players in the locker room.

In the pre-season the Penguins won their only game against the Canadiens, but also lost the first to them as well. Tomorrow we'll take a look at the Canadiens of 07 and see how they match up against the Pens.

Battle of the birds - Penguins prevail

Sorry for the title, I couldn't resist. The Penguins' came out on top over the Ducks after a somewhat sloppy game that still managed to get five goals in the net by the final score of 5-3. Two goals from Penguins new-comer Petr Sykora, a goal from Malkin, Malone and Armstrong. The Armstrong goal in the second period was later dubbbed by 105.9 WXDX's Phil Bourque as "Crosby-esque". Speaking of Crosby, he finally got a point on the year with a diving assist to Malone, which later proved to be the game winning goal.

Main hightlight on the night - The Pens scored two goals in the second period within 20 seconds, and repeated again with back-to-back goals coming in the third within 19 seconds.

Ruutu was scratched on the night, so recent acquisition Adam Hall made his black and gold debut. Although scoreless on the night, Hall certainly hustled hard deep in the zone, kicking the puck back out and even winning some key faceoffs later in the game.
Another big man who was relatively quiet last season; Georges Laraque. Not tonight. Laraque used his huge frame to his advantage, opening up some room in front of the net that allowed Sykora to slip in for a third period goal on Laraque's assist.

For a second consecutive night the Penguins defense was anything but stellar in their own zone. Some poor puck movement and key mid-ice turnovers should have made the game an Anaheim victory. Luckily the Ducks fired wide on net a few times and mishandled the puck on the rare but still detrimental occasion. They still went out there looking like a Stanley Cup team willing to compete. I'm gonna go on the record of saying - if Giguirre was in net, it would have been a Ducks victory.

Hopefully this isn't the method in which Pittsburgh hopes to win games. Last season it was all about out-scoring. Obviously that is the point in any situation where there is a winner and a loser, but what I'm trying to say is the Pens can't get themselves in to too many 9 goal games and expect to come out the winner. With the extra attacker the Ducks brought the game to within a goal, but were unable to do it again in the last 22. Yet had there been 25 seconds left on the clock, it may have gone to overtime. The last minute pressure and the crash on the net ran the chance of the puck finding its way in. Lucky for the Pens and the sold out crowd of 17,000+, time ran out.

The Pens can't hope to play this sort of game all season. For the time being, they gratefully walked away the victor. I also don't expect there to be many 1-0 and 2-1 games in the Pens' future, they're just not that sort of team. As a final thought (how Jerry Springer of me) the Pens need to work on a tighter defense, more fluent puck movement and the right mind to not take stupid penalties. They stick to that, and they're a division winner.

Goals
Sykora
Armstrong
Malkin
Sykora
Malone

Assists
Roberts
Christensen
Roberts
Sykora
Laraque
Malkin
Crosby
Scuderi

Season Opener

All things considered, tonight was not exactly the ideal start to a season. The Hurricane defense did a tremendous job of shutting down Crosby (keeping him scoreless and ultimately pointless on the night), Eric Staal showed up his little brother and the defense couldn't have looked weaker around the net. Even deeper on the roster, the second line wasn't able to pick up the slack of the poor play from the first line despite keeping Cam Ward from his first season shutout with under four minutes left in the game.

I genuinely felt this game was feasible, but it seems the team will have to really put on the pressure tomorrow night at home. What can they do better? Hard to say. They defintiely put on plenty of shots, even outshooting the Canes 34-33 on the night. Perhaps the real solution to tonight's loss is the presence of the defense. The penalty kill shutdown 4 of 5 attempts, while the powerplay capitalized only once on six attempts with a tap-in goal from Recchi from Malkin and Gonchar.

So maybe I was a little over-zealous when I predicted the Penguins' victory tonight. But I'm just going to play the ignorant card and say this - The Pens open at home 17 hours from now and nothing could possibly make up for the loss tonight than winning the first home game of the year in front of a cup hungry town.

Pre-game Short

If by any chance you hear someone saying how the Penguins have lost their last two games in Carolina, ignore it. It's a fact, but it won't be tomorrow.

The Pens are set to take on the Canes tonight at 7pm in Carolina. Expected in net for the Penguins, Marc Andre Fleury. Cam Ward gets the nod for the Hurricanes, coming off an overtime loss against the Canadiens Wednesday night. Kudos to Koivu for freezing up Ward for his first two goals of the season.

Got to take a look at the Rangers' home opener last night and wasn't overly impressed. Sure, they scored 37 seconds in to the game, but up until the last period when Florida fell apart, I was beginning to think New York was better off burning the money they spent on star players. That was of course, up until the point when Chris Drury realized he better earn his contract. Even still, I don't feel threatened by a team rallying 4 goals in the third period. They did it against the Panthers...not the Penguins. I choose to disregard it as a fluke, but take it for what you will.

Alternate Captains...Class A Work (get it?)

The Penguins announced three alternate captains today before the season opener tomorrow night in Carolina. Veterans Mark Recchi and Gary Roberts will each sport the "A", while defenseman Sergei Gonchar will be holding it down for the defense. Roberts and Gonchar will also be sharing the alternate duties, with Gonchar wearing it for home games and Roberts wearing it on the road. If you look at the roster, these selections shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone.

With the team's home opener only two days away, Captain Sidney Crosby and Co-captain Mark Recchi each purchased suites at Mellon Arena for the Make-a-wish and Big Brothers/Sister organizations. Yet again another class act from the Penguins' staff and its players.

And finally, if you ever needed another reason to visit this site over any other, then let this be evidence. Personally, I considered this to be a waste of a webpage, but then again I'm not Yahoo! and I also give a crap about hockey. The staff at Yahoo! asked Ryan Whitney a few questions. Read it here.

If they were going to ask him about a favorite CD, perhaps they would have just been better off asking what his favorite cassette was. CDs are just as obsolete. I doubt any single player is going to carry a stack of CDs with them, when an mp3 player is clearly the easiest way for any traveling person to go. Stop in to your local retailer and buy one today!

*This post was not in anyway sponsored by Apple, Sandisk or any other mp3 player.*

Anticipation In The Air

Teams around the league kicked off their seasons today, and all I can say is anticipation is growing. Here we are, only one day before the Pens' victory over the Canes. I couldn't be more psyched. I'm really looking forward to what lines the Pens work with tomorrow.

Speaking of, rumors from camp have mention some of the following pairs. Notice the utilization of the Vets with the youngins.

Staal-Crosby-Sykora
Staal, otherwise deadly on the penalty kill, deserves more a shot than any to be on this first line juggernaut. I don't doubt he'll relinquish his duties on the PK, but I do think he'll be shuffled in and out for the likes of Mark Recchi.
Average age: 23

Malone-Malkin-Recchi
Again, I wouldn't be surprised to see Recchi make the occasional jump to the first line. Regardless, as far as second lines go, this certainly is above average. Having the veteran Recchi on this line will hopefully help Malkin who we all pray will choose to shoot the puck a bit more this year rather than find the open shooter. If there's one thing you'll notice even more this season (especially with the new line pairings) is that the team is all about depth. And as Crosby recently noted, Stanley Cup teams are all about it.
Average age: 29

Roberts-Christensen-Armstrong
Again, nice placement of a vet with the younger guys. Similar to Staal on the first line, Christensen may be moving in and out from center to winger on the second. His play in the preseason and in practices so far this season has been focused on him adapting as a winger.
Average age: 29

Ruutu-Talbot-Laraque
Powerhouse. This line is the one that brings the pain. You won't see much of the red light with this line, but perhaps you'll see some red when the other team is picking up their teeth. The one benefit of being a power line is also the benefit of having Ruutu who, despite his placement on the fourth line, has been known to net a few shots.
Average age: 28

Although Coach Therrion has made no official note of defensive pairings, I'm going to draw my own. If you tend to disagree or feel otherwise, definitely share.

Gonchar-Whitney
Now the two of them put up a lot of points, there's no doubt about it. But I don't know if Therrion is going to want to break it up a bit. Perhaps rotate them with...

Sydor-Eaton
As long as Eaton can stay healthy, he'll definitely be a producer on the second line with Malkin, Recchi and Malone.

Scuderi - ?
I don't know who they would pair together on this line. Remember, the roster is still short one man. Is a defenseman in the works for Pitt? I wouldn't doubt by the start of next week the team calls up Letang. That's just high hopes though.

Orpik-Nasreddine
The heavy hitters. Similar to their forward counterparts, don't expect to see a lot of goals, but expect to see plenty of hits and penalty minutes racking up like the ticket counter at the main gate.

Also worth noting, only two days after clearing waivers, the Vancouver Canucks have claimed defenseman Mike Weaver. So much for potentially calling him up. Weaver had been appointed to WBS, but before he could even load up his locker it was time for him to catch a plane west. Best of luck to Weaver, I'll be rooting for him, similar to how I rooted for Sabourin last year when he backed up Luongo. Unless of course it comes down to a cup game between the Pens and Canucks, in which case not so much.

Here's a fun picture worth a chuckle. Prior to the picture, photographers had to pull Lohan away from the cup, reminding her it is merely a trophy and not a massive cocktail.

Coming and Going on The Penguins

It’s that heart-wrenching time of the year. That time of the year when some of the players you may have developed a keen preseason liking to are the victims of a team decision. When, despite media hype and the praise of critics, some players just don’t live up to it. It’s that time of the year when a team’s management sits down and asks, “Do they stay or do they go?” It’s time for the regular season, but more importantly, time for roster cuts.

Baring a sub-par 1-3-2 performance during the preseason, the Pittsburgh Penguins’ management sat down earlier this week to decide the fate of half a dozen players.

Heading back down to Wilkes-Barre Scranton isn’t exactly a demotion. After all, you still remain part of the club, even if on the AAA level. Besides, throughout the season the Pens have often called up players from the farm for short stints. However, for fan and media favorites Kris Letang and Jonathan Filewich, it can be a bit demoralizing. Letang possesses a highly praised right-handed slapshot that had fans buzzing and critics hailing him as a much needed standout on the Pens’ blueline. However, despite such claims, he will begin the upcoming season with the WBS club. Fans around town already suspect it won’t be the last time they see the 20 year old defenseman.

Filewich, in a similar position, is the ideal power forward. He possesses great size, speed and a knack for finding openings down-low. Yet he too will begin the 2006/07 season with Wilkes-Barre. Both Letang and Filewich were huge favorites around the club for making the team. It’s not to say one day they won’t, or potentially even play at some point during the season, but neither has officially made the roster for the regular season. Last season Letang was called up to play in seven games, scoring two goals in his short stay.

Aside from those two favorites, the Penguins also appointed forward Ryan Stone and defenseman Mike Weaver to the baby Pens. Forward Jeff Taffe, initially sent down over a week ago, found himself unpacking bags before he could catch a ride out of town. The team called him back up for the 4-3 loss against the Sabres in which he logged two shots in a little over 12 minutes of ice time. Following the game, Taffe was also sent back down to WBS.

Only one signing thus far for the Penguins following an otherwise poor performance this preseason - forward Adam Hall signed on to a one-year, two-way contract for an undisclosed amount. Last season Hall split between the Rangers and the Wild, tallying 6 goals and 17 points in 72 games. In preseason for the Pens, Hall played in all six games, spending four minutes in the bin and registering a handful of shots, none of which hit the net.

Despite much speculation of his whereabouts on the team’s roster, defenseman Alain Nasreddine finds himself lacing up blades for the season opener Friday night in Carolina. Last season with the Pens, Nasreddine played in 44 games, netting one shot and assisting four others for a five point season. Out of those 44 games, 18 minutes were spent reconciling sins in the box.

Last but not least, the Penguins have begun experimenting with Erik Christensen. Christensen, a natural center, has found a new home on the right wing. Paired with Gary Roberts and Evgeni Malkin, Christensen has said many times over he is willing to take on whatever position would better suit the team. Having a multi-purpose forward never hurt any team.

The roster for the Pens seems to be more or less set. Thus far in practice, the team’s been mixing up lines and experimenting with different units. It wouldn’t come as a surprise to see a different batch of attacks coming both Friday in Carolina and Saturday at home against the Ducks as the team continues to work with the line changes. Till then, with the preseason behind them, the Pens start the season 0-0-0 with a new roster in place and the cup in mind.



The Pens welcome Adam Hall to the roster