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.
