Tonight in new Jersey the Penguins hope to close out their 4 game road trip with a hopeful record of 2-2. The last time these two met it was in front of the Pittsburgh crowd, where the Devils proceeded to walk away victorious by the score of 5-4. Luckily Brodeur wasn't on top of his game (and hasn't really so far this year) but unfortunately for the Penguins Fleury wasn't doing too well either.
In two consecutive games the Penguins have lost by the score of 3-2. Even more coincidental is the sheer fact that in two consecutive games the Penguins have also had the lead at one point by the score of 2-0. If THAT wasn't enough, then bare with me. In two consecutive games the Penguins have also given up three unanswered goals to lose by the already mentioned score of 3-2.
Can it happen three games in a row? NO.
At least I'm hoping it can't.
Praying...
Captain Crosby has no doubt heated up since the last meeting with the Devs, whereby he had two assists on the night. In the most recent loss to the Islanders, he had one assist following a two goal game against Colorado.
The real thing that killed the Penguins the last time they faced off against the Devils was their insatiable ability to find a way into the penalty box. After coming off a penalty free first period, the Penguins accumulated eight - yes, EIGHT second period penalties. Coincidentally the Devils scored two powerplay goals in the second, converting 2 out of 7 in the game.
Perhaps, though, the Penguins' powerplay was a bit better. Although the Devils limited their penalties, the Penguins still managed to convert with the man advantage on 3 out of the 5 tries. With Crosby playing better (especially scoring more) I'd hope tonight's turnout to be a Penguins win.
In the most recent issue of The Hockey News, their is a story titled Sid vs the World. In it, fans basically conduct the interview with their questions. But one particular question that stood out actually pertains to this game. When asked who he hates playing against the most, Sid said none other than "New Jersey". As for reasons why, Sid cites their defensive game and ability to take away the ice as factors contributing towards his sub-par production against the Devils. If you're a die hard Penguins fan pick this issue up; it's worth the read.
Finally, I don't normally predict scores but I'm going to take a stab at it tonight. I'm not using any fancy machines, stats or good luck charms. I'm going based on what I've seen the Penguins do in the past four games and what I've seen (but more likely heard) the Devils do in their past four. So I'm going to say final score Penguins 4 Devils 3.
Feel free to challenge it.
