Game #29 - vs New Jersey Devils

Game 29

Devils (8-16-2, 18 points) at Penguins (18-8-2, 38 points)

Why does it matter?
This is a trap game. The Devils have been really bad. The Pens can't take them for granted.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - 12-1-1 in their past 14 games. If anything, they're improving their play as they go along.
• Devils - Just when things were looking up, with three wins in four games, they go out and allow 5 goals in two straight games, losing both contests.

Questions to be answered

• Can the Pens keep the offense going without Geno? Historically, they've struggled without Malkin in the lineup.
• Will the Pens be up for this one? The Devils have been really, really bad.
• Can Sid keep up the goal scoring pace?

Keys to the game

• Keep it simple. Get the puck deep and go to work. Take nothing for granted.
• Be smart about the dump-ins. Both goalies for the Devils are good at handling the puck and can short-circuit the forecheck.
• Make the Devils play your style. The Pens are at their best with the up-tempo zone control game with lots of hitting. Don't get sucked into the trap.