Sunday, April 10, 2011

Game #82 - at Atlanta Thrashers

Game 82
Penguins (48-25-8, 102 points) at Thrashers (34-35-12, 80 points)

Why does it matter?
It doesn't matter. This game has no bearing on the playoffs at all. The Pens are locked into the 4th spot in the East and will play Tampa Bay in the first round. Obviously a win today would be nice, but I'd expect lines to be rolling and anyone that gets bumped the wrong way to be pulled from the game.

What has been happening lately?
  • Pens - An amazing job of finishing with 106 points despite missing Sid and Geno for the stretch run. That is a testament to the job that HCDB has done, along with the heart and determination of the other guys on the ice.
  • Thrashers - On January 5th, the Thrashers were 22-15-6 and in good playoff position. Over the next two months, they were 4-13-5. Season over right there, essentially.
Questions to be answered
  • Only one, really - can the Pens avoid injury to keep everyone as healthy as possible for the playoffs?
Keys to the game
  • Nothing dumb. No need for any fights from guys like Asham, Kennedy or Engelland - the last thing they need is for someone to break their hand in a fight.
  • Work on the game - get the puck in deep and get shots on net. Start the playoff-style hockey a game early.

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