Game Night - Game #9

Florida Panthers at Pittsburgh Penguins

Florida 5-4-0 - 10 pts - 2nd in Southeast
Pittsburgh - 0-4-4 - 4 pts - Last in Atlantic

Florida so far is a team that plays far better at home, as evidenced by their 4-1 recornd at home and their 1-3 record on the road. They don't score much (just over two goals per game) but also don't allow much scoring either (just over two goals per game again). They have possibly the best goalie in the NHL - Roberto Luongo. He's played in all nine game thus far.

The Panthers haven't played since last thursday, as their game Saturday with Ottawa was moved due to hurricane concerns. They've been outshot every game on the road this year, and seem open it up more at home, racking up 35, 42 and 49 shots in their last three home games, all of which are more than any total for a road game this year. Their power play, despite netting two goals in four chances in their win against the Caps, has been weak this year. Their penalty kill has also been struggling of late. They killed off two chances against the Caps, but before that had allowed three PP goals against both the Rangers and Devils.

In short, this is a game the Pens really should win. In fact, they NEED to beat a team like this. The Panthers don't have much firepower, and are weak on the road. Their PP hasn't been much to worry about so far this year. If we're going to get a win this week, it should be tonight.

Having said that, I'm not counting on anything.

The game is on OLN. I've been less than crazy so far with their coverage. Fox Sports seems to do a much better job with their camera work. Hopefully it improves tonight.