Game #17 - at Carolina Hurricanes

2011-12 Game 17

Pittsburgh Penguins (10-3-3, 23 points) at Carolina Hurricanes (5-8-3, 13 points)

Really, AccuScore?  Is there a time machine somewhere that I don't know about?

Why does it matter?

The Canes are pretty bad so far this year, especially lately.  The Pens could not be hotter right now.  This is a chance to put two points in the bank.  This is also the kind of game you kick yourself over come playoff time if you miss the chance for two.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - Preparing for the possible return of Sid by winning every game in sight.
• Canes - They were still tied halfway through the third last night, and that's a step up considering how this team has played lately.

Questions to be answered

• Tyler Kennedy?  Returning?  Who will sit?  I'm guessing Tangradi.
• Can the Pens avoid a letdown after a strong effort against a top opponent last night?
• What happened to Eric Staal?  Just 5 points in 16 games to go with a -16.  Wow.

Keys to the game

• Don't get caught being cocky.  I'm not sure this team is capable of that, but just because the Canes are down and the Pens are hot is no reason to be over-confident.  HCDB has done a great job managing things like that.
• Don't give Staal and Skinner any room to breath.  These guys are struggling (Skinner less so, but still is a -8).  Stay on top of them.
• Score first.  The Canes haven't responded well to pressure lately.  Put some heat on and see if they fold like a house of cards.