Game #9 - vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs (3-4-3, 9 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (5-3, 10 pts)

Prior meeting:
Penguins 6, Leafs 4 on October 13th in Toronto

I think this season is cursed for me. I haven't been able to watch a Pens game since last Wednesday, and I won't get to watch one until next Tuesday. Yeah, yeah - I know - quit whining.

Anyway, tonight the Pens get to say a special Thank You to the team that helped them to turn around their early doldrums. When the Pens played the Leafs on October 13th, they were 1-2. Fleury had been shaky, and the offense hadn't really woke up. Since then, the Pens are 4-1 and have found ways to win the close games. Fleury has turned it around recently and the offense is doing just enough to win. Most importantly, the defense has been doing enough not to lose.

Toronto, on the other hand, is 1-2-2 from October 13th onward. They've been leaking shots like a cracked dam and their special teams have been inconsistent at best. They have only three chances (or less) on the power play in three of their past four games, and their PK is hit and miss.

Despite the opposing directions of these teams, the Leafs have historically been trouble for the Pens. Recent times have shown signs that course may be reversed, but the Pens will need to play well to keep the good times going.

No time for a Leafs blog today - if you're interested, check the side bar - I have a few listed there.

Hopefully I can now get back to a regular posting schedule.

Let's Go Pens!