Saturday, January 05, 2008

Game #41 - vs Florida Panthers

Florida Panthers (19-19-3, 41 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (22-16-2, 46 pts)


Olli is a Penguin killer.


Sarge had two points in the win over the Leafs.

If you asked a room full of reasonable people if the Pens were markedly better than the Panthers, you'd probably get a majority of affirmative answers. Unfortunately, the numbers don't work out that way. The Panthers are just 5 points behind the Pens in the standings in the jumbled Eastern Conference.

One of the big reasons for the good numbers from the Panthers has been their play on the road. On November 17th, they lost in Carolina to fall to 2-8-1 on the road. Since that time, they're 8-2 with their only losses coming in Detroit and New Jersey. In short, this won't be an easy game for the Pens.

During their five game win streak, the Pens have managed to out shoot their opponent just once. They've also managed just three power play goals during that span. So what is the difference? It's Ty Conklin. He's playing as well as we've seen a goalie play this season for the Pens. The D was keeping the number of shots down, but the last two games they've allowed over 35. This can't continue, as Conklin won't stay hot forever.

Let's hope the Pens can get some scoring on the power play and limit Florida's chances.

Let's Go Pens!

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