Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Game #32 - at Philadelphia Flyers

Game 32
Penguins (21-8-2, 44 points) at Flyers (19-7-5, 43 points)

Why does it matter?
Not only is this a Pittsburgh / Philly game, it is also a game between the top two teams in the NHL right now. I'd call it mandatory viewing.

What has been happening lately?
  • Pens - 15-1-1 in their past 17 games. Everything has been going well for the Pens, obviously.
  • Flyers - 4-0-1 in their past 5 games. The Flyers have been largely staying out of trouble (except for Jody Shelley, who is suspended for two games).
Questions to be answered
  • Boucher or Bobrovsky? I'm thinking the Pens can take advantage of either one with the way they're playing right now.
  • Will someone do something dumb to get Sid going? "Someone" includes the crowd, with their moronic "Crosby Sucks" chant. That chant is starting to sound like music to my ears, because every time Sid hears it, he seems to kick it up another gear.
  • Is this the right game to bring Geno back? Even though the Flyers have largely been on good behavior, you don't really want to go into a game with them if you're not 100%.
Keys to the game
  • Special teams are key. The Pens have been leaky on the PK and quiet on the power play. The Flyers have largely stayed out of the box. The teams that converts on their chances will win this game.
  • Initiate, don't retaliate.
  • Be tenacious around your own net with boxing out the Flyers after a shot. Protect Fleury (who I assume will start tonight).

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