Pittsburgh Penguins at Ottawa Senators
Ottawa lead series 3-1.
See, I have it all figured out in my head. Things are setup just right for the Pens, if you think about it. First, they steal game 5 in Ottawa. Somehow find a way to win. Maybe Ottawa eases up, maybe the Pens finally figure things out. Either way, they steal a win in game 5. Then, coming back home, they win game 6, because you can't lose three home playoff games in the same series, right? Once they win game 5 and 6, they go into game 7 with a two game winning streak. Anything can happen. It's feasible, right?
Right?
RIGHT??? Why do I only hear crickets chirping?
Um... maybe not, but it's all we have right now. I can believe if you can.
The Pens need to play the same style game they did on Tuesday. They need to out hit the Sens. They need to play with the same desperate intensity. The only thing they need to improve on is simply to score more goals. If the power play isn't working, they need to find a way to get it done at even strength.
I also think that the coaching staff needs to do a great job tomorrow. Michel Therrien needs to be smart about his player utilization. He needs to do a good job matching lines. I know Therrien says he doesn't think about that too much, but you don't want Crosby to see the top combo from the Sens all night long. You want to put Sid in the best position to succeed. Isn't that the job of a coach?
Mike Yeo also needs to have some answers for the Pens on the power play. To some extent, they're generating offense and not scoring, but the Sens also seem to have them figured out. I think it's time to have a different wrinkle available, just to give the Sens a different look. You have to keep them honest.
Since this could be the last game of the series (let's hope not!), let's have a look at those questions again and see how the Pens are faring:
5. Is Marc-Andre Fleury for real? Can he come up big for the first time in his career?
Yes. He is the real deal. He's the reason the Pens haven't been swept. If they can come back, he'll be the primary reason.
4. Can the Pens play their system against the Senators? Can they withstand the offensive barrages that the Sens have thrown against them this year?
The Pens haven't been able to play their system with regularity, or with much success. Period 2 of game 4 was the only time you could see it working well for an extended period. They need to get it back for the remainder of the series, or it's going to be over soon.
3. Can the Pens continue to confound Ray Emery? Will they still have his number?
Emery has become more solid as the series has gone on. I still say he'll struggle with consistent pressure, but the Pens haven't been able to generate that for more than brief spurts so far. Emery has been a product of the system.
2. Will this young team be overwhelmed and intimidated once the lights come on, or will they continue to be blissfully ignorant of their surroundings?
They've been far better at this in the last few games. Game 4 was the first time they looked like the team we saw in the second half of the regular season.
1. Can Sidney carry the Pens to the next level? Will he step it up when he's needed the most?
He'll step it up, no doubt. He can't do it by himself.
Here's hoping this isn't the last preview I'll write this year.
Let's Go Pens!
Showing posts with label 06-07 Game Preview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 06-07 Game Preview. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Monday, April 16, 2007
Playoff Game #4 - vs Ottawa Senators
Ottawa Senators at Pittsburgh Penguins
Ottawa leads 2-1.
Everything is a matter of perspective, isn't it? Say, for instance, that the Pens had lost both games in Ottawa and won on Sunday in Pittsburgh. What would we all be saying now? I think it would be something like "a win in game 4 and the Pens are right back in the series, doing what they're supposed to do". Instead, with the win on the road and the loss at home, there seems to be an overriding feeling of disappointment.
I think the Pens can win game 4. I think they will be right back in the series if they do. I think they're done if they don't.
If the Pens are to win the game, they're going to have to do a few things, in my opinion:
Let's Go Pens!
Ottawa leads 2-1.
Everything is a matter of perspective, isn't it? Say, for instance, that the Pens had lost both games in Ottawa and won on Sunday in Pittsburgh. What would we all be saying now? I think it would be something like "a win in game 4 and the Pens are right back in the series, doing what they're supposed to do". Instead, with the win on the road and the loss at home, there seems to be an overriding feeling of disappointment.
I think the Pens can win game 4. I think they will be right back in the series if they do. I think they're done if they don't.
If the Pens are to win the game, they're going to have to do a few things, in my opinion:
- Out hit the Senators, while staying out of the box. This is made easier by the reduced interference calls if the puck is anywhere near the player.
- Make better passes out of their own end. I'm not sure if this is a system thing that they're confused by, but we haven't seen this much difficulty all season.
- When they get the puck to the neutral zone, get the forecheck going. This had been absent for most of the series, and it's critical. It's even more important because it gives a chance for the third and fourth lines to chip in.
- Get timely scoring on the power play. In their two losses, the Pens had key situations where they couldn't get the badly needed goal past Ray Emery. They have to find a way to score.
- Hit Bryan Murray with the puck. Okay - maybe that one's not completely necessary, but it sure would be worth it.
Let's Go Pens!
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Playoff Game #3 - vs Ottawa Senators
Ottawa Senators at Pittsburgh Penguins
Series tied 1-1.
This is the game where we get to see just how much the Pens have in the tank. They snuck out of Ottawa with a split, despite being outplayed in both games (though not as badly in game 2). The Flightless Birds need to come out with a vengeance and take the game to the Senators.
Michel Therrien needs to be able to roll four lines, especially after the rough game just 24 hours prior. That means that a contribution from Ruutu, Christensen, Petro or whoever is on that fourth line would be invaluable. So far, Therrien hasn't been afraid to shorten the bench. Let's hope that doesn't come back to bite him.
The Senators have been leaning heavily on their big line (Spezza, Heatley and Alfredsson), all of them playing almost 23 minutes in Saturday's contest. Let's hope that DOES come back to bite Brian Murray.
You'd think that Therrien might be tempted to start Thibault, but given how strong Fleury finished up game 2, along with how valuable a home sweep would be, I can't see it happening.
If the Pens can manage to win game 3, they put the pressure squarely on the backs of the Senators, who would absolutely want to avoid going back to Ottawa down 3-1.
I think they can do it.
Let's Go Pens!
Series tied 1-1.
This is the game where we get to see just how much the Pens have in the tank. They snuck out of Ottawa with a split, despite being outplayed in both games (though not as badly in game 2). The Flightless Birds need to come out with a vengeance and take the game to the Senators.
Michel Therrien needs to be able to roll four lines, especially after the rough game just 24 hours prior. That means that a contribution from Ruutu, Christensen, Petro or whoever is on that fourth line would be invaluable. So far, Therrien hasn't been afraid to shorten the bench. Let's hope that doesn't come back to bite him.
The Senators have been leaning heavily on their big line (Spezza, Heatley and Alfredsson), all of them playing almost 23 minutes in Saturday's contest. Let's hope that DOES come back to bite Brian Murray.
You'd think that Therrien might be tempted to start Thibault, but given how strong Fleury finished up game 2, along with how valuable a home sweep would be, I can't see it happening.
If the Pens can manage to win game 3, they put the pressure squarely on the backs of the Senators, who would absolutely want to avoid going back to Ottawa down 3-1.
I think they can do it.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Playoff Game #2 - at Ottawa Senators
Pittsburgh Penguins at Ottawa Senators
Ottawa leads 1-0
Game 2 is going to be HUGE. If the Pens can manage a win in Ottawa, then they have a legitimate shot to win the series. If they go down 2-0, even though games 3 and 4 are at home, I'm not sure they'll be able to come back.
I think it's all going to depend on the mindset of the Senators. They're saying all the right things, but what is going on in their heads? They've been notorious chokers for 10 years, and haven't been up 2-0 in a series in that entire time. They're also coming off a game in which the dominated, maybe making things a little too easy. I think they could be in for a rude awakening.
Here are the questions I asked prior to game 1. Let's see how the answers are looking so far:
5. Is Marc-Andre Fleury for real? Can he come up big for the first time in his career?
Yes - I think he can. He was quite sharp through two periods. I think with a better all-around effort by the team, Fleury can make the big save when called upon.
4. Can the Pens play their system against the Senators? Can they withstand the offensive barrages that the Sens have thrown against them this year?
This is TBD (To Be Determined). They weren't able to avoid the flurry of goals early in the first and in the third. That is what did them in on Wednesday night. Consistency is the key for Game 2.
3. Can the Pens continue to confound Ray Emery? Will they still have his number?
This is an emphatic YES. Get some regular pressure on this guy and I think he'll fold like a house of cards.
2. Will this young team be overwhelmed and intimidated once the lights come on, or will they continue to be blissfully ignorant of their surroundings?
I think they're all too aware of their surroundings and were pretty nervous. Now that they have the jitters out of the way, with a few late goals to show they can score, the train should start to roll a bit.
1. Can Sidney carry the Pens to the next level? Will he step it up when he's needed the most?
Another TBD. I believe he can, but we haven't seen it yet.
Game time is 3:00. Buckle up - it's going to be a rough one.
Let's Go Pens!
Ottawa leads 1-0
Game 2 is going to be HUGE. If the Pens can manage a win in Ottawa, then they have a legitimate shot to win the series. If they go down 2-0, even though games 3 and 4 are at home, I'm not sure they'll be able to come back.
I think it's all going to depend on the mindset of the Senators. They're saying all the right things, but what is going on in their heads? They've been notorious chokers for 10 years, and haven't been up 2-0 in a series in that entire time. They're also coming off a game in which the dominated, maybe making things a little too easy. I think they could be in for a rude awakening.
Here are the questions I asked prior to game 1. Let's see how the answers are looking so far:
5. Is Marc-Andre Fleury for real? Can he come up big for the first time in his career?
Yes - I think he can. He was quite sharp through two periods. I think with a better all-around effort by the team, Fleury can make the big save when called upon.
4. Can the Pens play their system against the Senators? Can they withstand the offensive barrages that the Sens have thrown against them this year?
This is TBD (To Be Determined). They weren't able to avoid the flurry of goals early in the first and in the third. That is what did them in on Wednesday night. Consistency is the key for Game 2.
3. Can the Pens continue to confound Ray Emery? Will they still have his number?
This is an emphatic YES. Get some regular pressure on this guy and I think he'll fold like a house of cards.
2. Will this young team be overwhelmed and intimidated once the lights come on, or will they continue to be blissfully ignorant of their surroundings?
I think they're all too aware of their surroundings and were pretty nervous. Now that they have the jitters out of the way, with a few late goals to show they can score, the train should start to roll a bit.
1. Can Sidney carry the Pens to the next level? Will he step it up when he's needed the most?
Another TBD. I believe he can, but we haven't seen it yet.
Game time is 3:00. Buckle up - it's going to be a rough one.
Let's Go Pens!
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Playoff Game #1 - at Ottawa Senators
Pittsburgh Penguins at Ottawa Senators
This is the first game of the playoffs. It's the first post season game the Pens have played in about six or seven years. I'm jacked to watch.
There are lots of unanswered questions about this team that we'll slowly get to see some answers to. Here are the top five questions that will be answered this series:
5. Is Marc-Andre Fleury for real? Can he come up big for the first time in his career?
4. Can the Pens play their system against the Senators? Can they withstand the offensive barrages that the Sens have thrown against them this year?
3. Can the Pens continue to confound Ray Emery? Will they still have his number?
2. Will this young team be overwhelmed and intimidated once the lights come on, or will they continue to be blissfully ignorant of their surroundings?
1. Can Sidney carry the Pens to the next level? Will he step it up when he's needed the most?
What questions do you have that you're waiting to see the answers to? I know one thing - it'll be fun to watch!
Let's Go Pens!
This is the first game of the playoffs. It's the first post season game the Pens have played in about six or seven years. I'm jacked to watch.
There are lots of unanswered questions about this team that we'll slowly get to see some answers to. Here are the top five questions that will be answered this series:
5. Is Marc-Andre Fleury for real? Can he come up big for the first time in his career?
4. Can the Pens play their system against the Senators? Can they withstand the offensive barrages that the Sens have thrown against them this year?
3. Can the Pens continue to confound Ray Emery? Will they still have his number?
2. Will this young team be overwhelmed and intimidated once the lights come on, or will they continue to be blissfully ignorant of their surroundings?
1. Can Sidney carry the Pens to the next level? Will he step it up when he's needed the most?
What questions do you have that you're waiting to see the answers to? I know one thing - it'll be fun to watch!
Let's Go Pens!
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Game #82 - vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers (42-29-10, 94 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (46-24-11, 103 pts)
Prior meetings:
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 on March 19th in New York
Penguins 3, Rangers 2 (OT) on March 10th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 4, Rangers 3 (SO) on March 1st in New York
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
The scenario for tonight is very simple. Win the game and hope the Senators lose in regulation or OT. If that happens, the Pens will have home ice for their first round series.
The Rangers have been hot on their way to the playoffs. They've lost only twice in regulation since the beginning of March (Lundqvist has lost only once in regulation). The main reason has been defense and goal tending.
The Pens have won 4 of the 7 games so far against the Rangers and can clinch the season series with a win tonight. That would be nice.
Rangers blog -
I'm not going to single out one blog this time. They're all singing about the Rangers clinching the playoffs. Good for them. I hope the Pens can help out (ie, beat the Rangers in regulation) and force the Rangers into 7th, where they'll have to play the Devils. The Rangers have lost 4 in a row against the Devils.
More than anything else, the Pens need a win to go into the playoffs on a high note, and to give themselves a shot at the #1 seed. It's the last game of the year. You should be watching - the Igloo will be rocking.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 on March 19th in New York
Penguins 3, Rangers 2 (OT) on March 10th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 4, Rangers 3 (SO) on March 1st in New York
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
The scenario for tonight is very simple. Win the game and hope the Senators lose in regulation or OT. If that happens, the Pens will have home ice for their first round series.
The Rangers have been hot on their way to the playoffs. They've lost only twice in regulation since the beginning of March (Lundqvist has lost only once in regulation). The main reason has been defense and goal tending.
The Pens have won 4 of the 7 games so far against the Rangers and can clinch the season series with a win tonight. That would be nice.
Rangers blog -
I'm not going to single out one blog this time. They're all singing about the Rangers clinching the playoffs. Good for them. I hope the Pens can help out (ie, beat the Rangers in regulation) and force the Rangers into 7th, where they'll have to play the Devils. The Rangers have lost 4 in a row against the Devils.
More than anything else, the Pens need a win to go into the playoffs on a high note, and to give themselves a shot at the #1 seed. It's the last game of the year. You should be watching - the Igloo will be rocking.
Let's Go Pens!
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Game #80 - vs Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo Sabres (50-21-7, 107 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (45-23-11, 101 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Sabres 4 (SO) on March 13th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 4, Sabres 2 on January 5th in Buffalo
Sabres 4, Penguins 2 on November 17th in Buffalo
Playoff position update:
The Pens can finish 2nd in the conference if:
We'll likely see Marc-Andre Fleury in net tonight for the Pens against Ryan Miller for the Sabres. Miller is looking to set the team record for wins. The Pens are 2-0 against Miller this year (Biron was in goal when the Sabres won early in the season).
Buffalo has a virtual lock on the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference. They have a 5 point lead on both Jersey and Ottawa with a game in hand. The Pens, as detailed above, are struggling for either the 2 or 4 seed. They can fall no lower than 5.
Sabres blog - BfloBlog
This is easily one of my favorite blogs to link to. There's always a game preview up (today is no exception), and it's always well written.
Tonight's game will be fun. That's all we know for sure. I'd love to say the Pens will be able to take this one, but I'm a little bit nervous about it. I'm hoping for two points so they can keep their chances of the 2nd or 4th spot alive.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Sabres 4 (SO) on March 13th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 4, Sabres 2 on January 5th in Buffalo
Sabres 4, Penguins 2 on November 17th in Buffalo
Playoff position update:
The Pens can finish 2nd in the conference if:
- The Pens win their remaining games.
- The Devils lose tonight to the Senators in regulation.
- The Pens win their remaining games, beating Ottawa in regulation.
We'll likely see Marc-Andre Fleury in net tonight for the Pens against Ryan Miller for the Sabres. Miller is looking to set the team record for wins. The Pens are 2-0 against Miller this year (Biron was in goal when the Sabres won early in the season).
Buffalo has a virtual lock on the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference. They have a 5 point lead on both Jersey and Ottawa with a game in hand. The Pens, as detailed above, are struggling for either the 2 or 4 seed. They can fall no lower than 5.
Sabres blog - BfloBlog
This is easily one of my favorite blogs to link to. There's always a game preview up (today is no exception), and it's always well written.
Tonight's game will be fun. That's all we know for sure. I'd love to say the Pens will be able to take this one, but I'm a little bit nervous about it. I'm hoping for two points so they can keep their chances of the 2nd or 4th spot alive.
Let's Go Pens!
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Game #79 - at Toronto Maple Leafs
Pittsburgh Penguins (45-23-10, 100 pts) at Toronto Maple Leafs (37-29-11, 85 pts)
Prior meetings:
Pens 6, Leafs 5 (OT) on February 10th in Toronto
Pens 8, Leafs 2 on January 20th in Pittsburgh
Pens 4, Leafs 1 on December 29th in Pittsburgh
The Pens need a win tonight to keep pace with the Devils and Senators. Getting home-ice advantage for at least one series is key for the Pens. They play much better at home, especially on special teams.
The Leafs have been somewhat hot lately overall, but at home they've been lethal. They haven't lost at home since their Buffalo game on March 3rd. The most recent two home games (against Carolina and the Sabres), they've outscored their opponents by 10-2.
Special teams have been a bit of a struggle for the Leafs lately. The power play hasn't had a multiple goal game since January 27th (!!) and their PK has been sporadically leaky.
The Pens, on the other hand, have a red hot power play and penalty kill. The power play has 7 goals in it's last 16 chances, while the PK has allowed only two goals in the last 7 games, stopping 27 of 29 chances.
The Leafs need the one more than the Pens do, so it will be a good test to see how the Pens respond to a team that has their back to the playoff wall.
Leafs blog - Bring Back Potvin
Check this one out for a nice summary of exactly what needs to happen for the Leafs tonight. They're hoping the Flyers to beat the Rangers. I'm hoping for that too. Now that the Pens are in the playoffs, I'm cheering like crazy for the Rangers not to make it.
Should be a good one tonight. The atmosphere will be like a playoff game, just like several games in recent memory. I think the Pens pull it out and sweep the Leafs for the first time in almost 10 years.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Pens 6, Leafs 5 (OT) on February 10th in Toronto
Pens 8, Leafs 2 on January 20th in Pittsburgh
Pens 4, Leafs 1 on December 29th in Pittsburgh
The Pens need a win tonight to keep pace with the Devils and Senators. Getting home-ice advantage for at least one series is key for the Pens. They play much better at home, especially on special teams.
The Leafs have been somewhat hot lately overall, but at home they've been lethal. They haven't lost at home since their Buffalo game on March 3rd. The most recent two home games (against Carolina and the Sabres), they've outscored their opponents by 10-2.
Special teams have been a bit of a struggle for the Leafs lately. The power play hasn't had a multiple goal game since January 27th (!!) and their PK has been sporadically leaky.
The Pens, on the other hand, have a red hot power play and penalty kill. The power play has 7 goals in it's last 16 chances, while the PK has allowed only two goals in the last 7 games, stopping 27 of 29 chances.
The Leafs need the one more than the Pens do, so it will be a good test to see how the Pens respond to a team that has their back to the playoff wall.
Leafs blog - Bring Back Potvin
Check this one out for a nice summary of exactly what needs to happen for the Leafs tonight. They're hoping the Flyers to beat the Rangers. I'm hoping for that too. Now that the Pens are in the playoffs, I'm cheering like crazy for the Rangers not to make it.
Should be a good one tonight. The atmosphere will be like a playoff game, just like several games in recent memory. I think the Pens pull it out and sweep the Leafs for the first time in almost 10 years.
Let's Go Pens!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Game #78 - at Boston Bruins
Pittsburgh Penguins (44-23-10, 98 pts) at Boston Bruins (35-35-6, 76 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Bruins 0 on March 25th in Pittsburgh
Bruins 5, Penguins 4 (SO) on January 18th in Boston
Bruins 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on November 22nd in Pittsburgh
First, player news for the game:
The power play has been red hot, but you could see they had a little more trouble when the Caps turned aggressive on the PK, trying to take away time and space. The Pens didn't adapt well to that, though it may have been because they already had three power play goals that game. Expect more of the same from the Bruins, and especially in the playoffs, no matter who they play.
The Bruins are coming off of a win over the Senators (in Ottawa), so clearly they're capable of putting together a solid game. The last time they won back to back games, though, was at the beginning of March. If the Pens can avoid the slow start, and don't take the Bruins lightly, they'll be OK.
Bruins blog - Bruins Nation
Check out their review of the loss to the Penguins, along with some word of a practice without pucks that followed their Sunday debacle.
The Pens need the win to keep up with the Devils in the division. I know it's currently Tampa in the 7th spot, but that could easily change since only three points separate 6th from 11th. Get the #2 spot, Pens!!
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Bruins 0 on March 25th in Pittsburgh
Bruins 5, Penguins 4 (SO) on January 18th in Boston
Bruins 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on November 22nd in Pittsburgh
First, player news for the game:
- Gary Roberts, as of Wednesday night, is not expected to play in this one. He didn't practice today.
- Ronald Petrovicky will play in place of Roberts.
- Tim Thomas will be back between the pipes for the Bruins. Let's hope the Pens can keep at him - he's been successful against the Flightless Birds in the past.
The power play has been red hot, but you could see they had a little more trouble when the Caps turned aggressive on the PK, trying to take away time and space. The Pens didn't adapt well to that, though it may have been because they already had three power play goals that game. Expect more of the same from the Bruins, and especially in the playoffs, no matter who they play.
The Bruins are coming off of a win over the Senators (in Ottawa), so clearly they're capable of putting together a solid game. The last time they won back to back games, though, was at the beginning of March. If the Pens can avoid the slow start, and don't take the Bruins lightly, they'll be OK.
Bruins blog - Bruins Nation
Check out their review of the loss to the Penguins, along with some word of a practice without pucks that followed their Sunday debacle.
The Pens need the win to keep up with the Devils in the division. I know it's currently Tampa in the 7th spot, but that could easily change since only three points separate 6th from 11th. Get the #2 spot, Pens!!
Let's Go Pens!
Monday, March 26, 2007
Game #77 - at Washington Capitals
Pittsburgh Penguins (43-23-10, 96 pts) at Washington Capitals (26-37-13, 65 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 3, Capitals 2 on February 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 2, Capitals 0 on February 3rd in Pittsburgh
Penguins 5, Capitals 4 (SO) on December 11th in Washington
Let's take a look in the Wayback Machine. Back to December 11th, when the Pens played the Capitals. The Caps were 13-10-6 through 29 games and the Pens were 12-11-5 through 28 games. The Pens were down 4-0 and came back to win the game in OT. Let's go back to what I said in the game review way back then:
Since that game, the Pens are 31-12-4 while the Caps are 13-27-7. I'm not going to say the season turned on that game alone, but when you come back from a 4-0 deficit, that sure can have a long lasting impact.
That said, this won't be an easy game by any stretch of the imagination. The Pens are just 4-5 in their last nine road game, including two losses last week to the Isles and Rangers. This is the first of three in a row they'll play on the road. To quote my Calculus teacher (another trip in the WAAAAYYY back machine), this will be "an opportunity to show what you've learned", though she was talking about a test.
The Caps are just bad lately, but they've been playing on the road. In their last 8 games, they've only won two. The two wins were their only two home games in that stretch, and they outscored their opponents (Toronto and Tampa Bay) by a combined 12-2. That's nothing to sneeze at. The Pens will need to be really careful and play a tight road game.
Caps blog - Japer's Rink
Go there to check out this article. No, really - go look, and do it now. You couldn't make this stuff up (but you could give some ideas to the Yinzers).
This will be a tough one, but if they Pens are serious about passing the Devils, they need the win badly.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 3, Capitals 2 on February 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 2, Capitals 0 on February 3rd in Pittsburgh
Penguins 5, Capitals 4 (SO) on December 11th in Washington
Let's take a look in the Wayback Machine. Back to December 11th, when the Pens played the Capitals. The Caps were 13-10-6 through 29 games and the Pens were 12-11-5 through 28 games. The Pens were down 4-0 and came back to win the game in OT. Let's go back to what I said in the game review way back then:
Like I said at the start, this was a TREMENDOUS comeback from a 4 goal deficit. I'm hoping we're looking back on this road trip (and this game in particular) as the time when the season turned around for the Pens and propelled them into the playoffs.Ow - I just sprained my shoulder.
Since that game, the Pens are 31-12-4 while the Caps are 13-27-7. I'm not going to say the season turned on that game alone, but when you come back from a 4-0 deficit, that sure can have a long lasting impact.
That said, this won't be an easy game by any stretch of the imagination. The Pens are just 4-5 in their last nine road game, including two losses last week to the Isles and Rangers. This is the first of three in a row they'll play on the road. To quote my Calculus teacher (another trip in the WAAAAYYY back machine), this will be "an opportunity to show what you've learned", though she was talking about a test.
The Caps are just bad lately, but they've been playing on the road. In their last 8 games, they've only won two. The two wins were their only two home games in that stretch, and they outscored their opponents (Toronto and Tampa Bay) by a combined 12-2. That's nothing to sneeze at. The Pens will need to be really careful and play a tight road game.
Caps blog - Japer's Rink
Go there to check out this article. No, really - go look, and do it now. You couldn't make this stuff up (but you could give some ideas to the Yinzers).
This will be a tough one, but if they Pens are serious about passing the Devils, they need the win badly.
Let's Go Pens!
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Game #76 - vs Boston Bruins
Boston Bruins (34-34-6, 74 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (42-23-10, 94 pts)
Prior meetings:
Bruins 5, Penguins 4 (SO) on January 18th in Boston
Bruins 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on November 22nd in Pittsburgh
The Bruins have been struggling. They've lost 7 of their last 9 games, including yesterday afternoon in a shoot out against the Rangers. They've also been struggling on the power play, maybe more than the Pens lately. They've been blanked in 9 of their last 11 games. The Penguins, by contrast, have been shut out on the power play in 5 of their past 6. Neither penalty kill is much of anything special (though the Pens have been playing better of late), so both teams will have a chance to get some offense going.
This is a difficult game for the Pens. The Bruins are effectively out of the playoffs, as they're 10 points back with only 7 games remaining. They'll be a loose bunch, and the Pens have had their struggles against the Bruins lately. It's important to continue to vanquish the demons and beat teams that they've struggled with lately. With three straight games against Boston and Washington, the Flightless Birds should be earning 5 or 6 points in those three games.
The Pens are two points behind the Devils, who won their game last night against Florida. A win today, and things are all tied up (though the Devils will have a game in hand).
Bruins blog - The Bruins Report
Check out this blog for a writeup of yesterday's loss to the Rangers. The Bruins seems to like blowing leads in the third lately.
This game will be a litmus test for the Pens. Can they get up for a team that's not in the playoffs? Can they skate well for two straight early starts? Can they find their offense? I'm hoping for three "Yes!" answers.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Bruins 5, Penguins 4 (SO) on January 18th in Boston
Bruins 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on November 22nd in Pittsburgh
The Bruins have been struggling. They've lost 7 of their last 9 games, including yesterday afternoon in a shoot out against the Rangers. They've also been struggling on the power play, maybe more than the Pens lately. They've been blanked in 9 of their last 11 games. The Penguins, by contrast, have been shut out on the power play in 5 of their past 6. Neither penalty kill is much of anything special (though the Pens have been playing better of late), so both teams will have a chance to get some offense going.
This is a difficult game for the Pens. The Bruins are effectively out of the playoffs, as they're 10 points back with only 7 games remaining. They'll be a loose bunch, and the Pens have had their struggles against the Bruins lately. It's important to continue to vanquish the demons and beat teams that they've struggled with lately. With three straight games against Boston and Washington, the Flightless Birds should be earning 5 or 6 points in those three games.
The Pens are two points behind the Devils, who won their game last night against Florida. A win today, and things are all tied up (though the Devils will have a game in hand).
Bruins blog - The Bruins Report
Check out this blog for a writeup of yesterday's loss to the Rangers. The Bruins seems to like blowing leads in the third lately.
This game will be a litmus test for the Pens. Can they get up for a team that's not in the playoffs? Can they skate well for two straight early starts? Can they find their offense? I'm hoping for three "Yes!" answers.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, March 23, 2007
Game #75 - vs Atlanta Thrashers
Atlanta Thrashers (39-26-10, 88 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (41-23-10, 92 pts)
Prior meetings:
Thrashers 4, Penguins 2 on December 27th in Pittsburgh
Thrashers 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on December 21st in Atlanta
Penguins 4, Thrashers 3 (OT) on December 9th in Atlanta
The Pens have lost two straight games after surging last week against some of the top competition in the Eastern conference. They'll need to regain their edge if they hope to overtake the Devils for the division lead (and #2 spot in the playoffs).
The Pens have been blanked on the power play in four of the last five games. They'll need to be able to convert with the man-advantage to beat the Thrashers. I'm not sure what it is about teams from the South, but the Pens have struggled lately against the Thrashers, Lightning and Panthers. They've turned the corner somewhat against the latter two, but haven't been able to get things going in the right direction against the Thrashers.
Thrashers blog - Talking Thrash
This one is a nice general Thrashers blog. They note that Jon Sim will miss the game against the Pens. This makes the Thrashers even less of a physical team. The Pens need to take advantage of that, because they certainly ARE a physical team if they want to be.
Early game times this weekend. This one starts at 1:00. I'm looking for a victory. If things fall right, the Devils will lose and the Pens will be tied for the division lead going into Sunday. We can only hope.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Thrashers 4, Penguins 2 on December 27th in Pittsburgh
Thrashers 4, Penguins 3 (SO) on December 21st in Atlanta
Penguins 4, Thrashers 3 (OT) on December 9th in Atlanta
The Pens have lost two straight games after surging last week against some of the top competition in the Eastern conference. They'll need to regain their edge if they hope to overtake the Devils for the division lead (and #2 spot in the playoffs).
The Pens have been blanked on the power play in four of the last five games. They'll need to be able to convert with the man-advantage to beat the Thrashers. I'm not sure what it is about teams from the South, but the Pens have struggled lately against the Thrashers, Lightning and Panthers. They've turned the corner somewhat against the latter two, but haven't been able to get things going in the right direction against the Thrashers.
Thrashers blog - Talking Thrash
This one is a nice general Thrashers blog. They note that Jon Sim will miss the game against the Pens. This makes the Thrashers even less of a physical team. The Pens need to take advantage of that, because they certainly ARE a physical team if they want to be.
Early game times this weekend. This one starts at 1:00. I'm looking for a victory. If things fall right, the Devils will lose and the Pens will be tied for the division lead going into Sunday. We can only hope.
Let's Go Pens!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Game #69 - vs Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo Sabres (44-19-5, 93 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (37-21-10, 84 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 4, Sabres 2 on January 5th at Buffalo
Sabres 4, Penguins 2 on November 17th at Buffalo
Tonight is a celebration. It's a chance to cheer now that the home team will remain in Pittsburgh. It's also a chance to celebrate a likely return to the playoffs, on national TV (okay, calling Versus a national channel might be pushing it a little bit). Who better for an opponent than the current #1 team in the East? If the Pens manage to win this one, it will create some great momentum.
The Sabres have been struggling. They've lost three in a row. If they lost tonight, it would be the longest losing streak since they lost 6 straight during late March last year. Maybe a trend?
The Sabres have taken only three penalties in the last three games, including one game without a single penalty. They've also been unable to notch a power play goal in those same three games. Is it me, or are the refs putting away the whistles again? It would be interesting to look at the penalties that have been called lately...
Sabres blog - BfloBlog
They have a nice preview of tonight's contest up and available for reading.
The Pens will have their hands full tonight. The Sabres will be frustrated with having played New Jersey and Minnesota and will be glad for the chance to open things up. The Pens need to be careful not to let things get out of hand, and play a tight game at home.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 4, Sabres 2 on January 5th at Buffalo
Sabres 4, Penguins 2 on November 17th at Buffalo
Tonight is a celebration. It's a chance to cheer now that the home team will remain in Pittsburgh. It's also a chance to celebrate a likely return to the playoffs, on national TV (okay, calling Versus a national channel might be pushing it a little bit). Who better for an opponent than the current #1 team in the East? If the Pens manage to win this one, it will create some great momentum.
The Sabres have been struggling. They've lost three in a row. If they lost tonight, it would be the longest losing streak since they lost 6 straight during late March last year. Maybe a trend?
The Sabres have taken only three penalties in the last three games, including one game without a single penalty. They've also been unable to notch a power play goal in those same three games. Is it me, or are the refs putting away the whistles again? It would be interesting to look at the penalties that have been called lately...
Sabres blog - BfloBlog
They have a nice preview of tonight's contest up and available for reading.
The Pens will have their hands full tonight. The Sabres will be frustrated with having played New Jersey and Minnesota and will be glad for the chance to open things up. The Pens need to be careful not to let things get out of hand, and play a tight game at home.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, March 09, 2007
Game #68 - vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers (33-27-7, 73 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (36-21-10, 82 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 4, Rangers 3 (SO) on March 1st in New York
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
This is the sixth meeting this year between the Pens and Rangers. The Pens have won three, and considering they still play the Rangers twice, would like to set a precedent by making it four.
The Pens sit just 9 points ahead of the 9th place Rangers. A loss would really hurt. The Pens need to solidify their position. They also need to get the offense cranked back up. Aside from the Ottawa comeback, the Pens have managed three goals or less in every game since February 19th (the Islanders game that ended the point streak). They need Crosby to get back on track, and the power play to put up a multiple goal game.
Rangers blog - Hockeybird.com
They have a nice article about the way the Rangers have been playing lately and their youth movement. Nice to see when everyone else is still talking about Chris Simon's hit (or chop, I guess I should say).
The Rangers have been quite stingy defensively lately, so the Pens will need to use their speed and transition game to get some quality chances. Lundqvist is always tough on them. I still think the Pens come out on top.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 4, Rangers 3 (SO) on March 1st in New York
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
This is the sixth meeting this year between the Pens and Rangers. The Pens have won three, and considering they still play the Rangers twice, would like to set a precedent by making it four.
The Pens sit just 9 points ahead of the 9th place Rangers. A loss would really hurt. The Pens need to solidify their position. They also need to get the offense cranked back up. Aside from the Ottawa comeback, the Pens have managed three goals or less in every game since February 19th (the Islanders game that ended the point streak). They need Crosby to get back on track, and the power play to put up a multiple goal game.
Rangers blog - Hockeybird.com
They have a nice article about the way the Rangers have been playing lately and their youth movement. Nice to see when everyone else is still talking about Chris Simon's hit (or chop, I guess I should say).
The Rangers have been quite stingy defensively lately, so the Pens will need to use their speed and transition game to get some quality chances. Lundqvist is always tough on them. I still think the Pens come out on top.
Let's Go Pens!
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Game #67 - vs New Jersey Devils
New Jersey Devils (40-19-8, 88 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (36-21-9, 81 pts)
Prior meetings:
Devils 1, Penguins 0 on February 27th in Pittsburgh.
Penguins 5, Devils 4 on February 16th in New Jersey
Devils 3, Penguins 0 on December 26th in New Jersey
Devils 5, Penguins 2 on December 1st in New Jersey
Penguins 4, Devils 2 on October 25th in Pittsburgh
Devils 2, Penguins 1 on October 18th in Pittsburgh
Here we go again. The Pens are within 7 points of first place in the Atlantic, which is two points closer than they were the last time these two teams met last week. The Pens could use a win to give themselves a fighting chance to catch the Devils for first place in the division. Why is that so important? Because right now it's the difference between playing the Islanders and the Senators in the playoffs.
The Pens have been struggling on the power play. They are just 2-28 in their last five games with the man-advantage. That's not likely to change against the best penalty kill in the Eastern Conference.
The Devils have lost three straight games (two in OT) and are struggling a bit right now. It's probably a good time to catch them, especially with their resident lunatic, Cam Janssen still out of the lineup for his completely unnecessary hit on Toronto's Tomas Kaberle.
Devils blog - Drop the Puck
This new (?) blog has a nice open letter to the city of Pittsburgh. They're much nicer than I would be - I'd just come out and call the Gaming Control Board flat out stupid in their decision.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say that the Pens are over the hump. Crosby has a break out night and the Pens win.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Devils 1, Penguins 0 on February 27th in Pittsburgh.
Penguins 5, Devils 4 on February 16th in New Jersey
Devils 3, Penguins 0 on December 26th in New Jersey
Devils 5, Penguins 2 on December 1st in New Jersey
Penguins 4, Devils 2 on October 25th in Pittsburgh
Devils 2, Penguins 1 on October 18th in Pittsburgh
Here we go again. The Pens are within 7 points of first place in the Atlantic, which is two points closer than they were the last time these two teams met last week. The Pens could use a win to give themselves a fighting chance to catch the Devils for first place in the division. Why is that so important? Because right now it's the difference between playing the Islanders and the Senators in the playoffs.
The Pens have been struggling on the power play. They are just 2-28 in their last five games with the man-advantage. That's not likely to change against the best penalty kill in the Eastern Conference.
The Devils have lost three straight games (two in OT) and are struggling a bit right now. It's probably a good time to catch them, especially with their resident lunatic, Cam Janssen still out of the lineup for his completely unnecessary hit on Toronto's Tomas Kaberle.
Devils blog - Drop the Puck
This new (?) blog has a nice open letter to the city of Pittsburgh. They're much nicer than I would be - I'd just come out and call the Gaming Control Board flat out stupid in their decision.
I'm going to go out on a limb and say that the Pens are over the hump. Crosby has a break out night and the Pens win.
Let's Go Pens!
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Game #66 - at Ottawa Senators
Pittsburgh Penguins (35-21-9, 79 pts) at Ottawa Senators (38-23-5, 81 pts)
Prior meeting:
Senators 6, Penguins 3 on November 10th at Pittsburgh
Short preview - no time today.
There are three games left this season between the Pens and Sens. If the standings stay the way they are, there will be more after that. If the season ended today, the Pens and Sens would square off in a first round series. That doesn't bode well for the Flightless Birds, as they tend to get the stars in the eyes when playing the Senators.
The Pens haven't won a game against the Senators since November 22nd, 2003. It's time for that to change, but it won't be easy. They'll need the big guns to light it up (Crosby, Malkin, et al) and Fleury to be on top of his game.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meeting:
Senators 6, Penguins 3 on November 10th at Pittsburgh
Short preview - no time today.
There are three games left this season between the Pens and Sens. If the standings stay the way they are, there will be more after that. If the season ended today, the Pens and Sens would square off in a first round series. That doesn't bode well for the Flightless Birds, as they tend to get the stars in the eyes when playing the Senators.
The Pens haven't won a game against the Senators since November 22nd, 2003. It's time for that to change, but it won't be easy. They'll need the big guns to light it up (Crosby, Malkin, et al) and Fleury to be on top of his game.
Let's Go Pens!
Saturday, March 03, 2007
Game #65 - vs Philadelphia Flyers
Philadelphia Flyers (17-37-10, 44 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (34-21-9, 77 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Flyers 4 (SO) on February 8th at Philadelphia
Penguins 5, Flyers 3 on January 13th at Philadelphia
Penguins 8, Flyers 4 on December 13th at Pittsburgh
Penguins 5, Flyers 3 on November 20th at Philadelphia
Penguins 3, Flyers 2 on November 13th at Pittsburgh
Penguins 8, Flyers 2 on October 28th at Philadelphia
Penguins 4, Flyers 0 on October 5th at Pittsburgh
I can't tell you how much fun I had compiling the list of the Pens seven prior victories over the Flyers. It's a beautiful thing to see the Penguins on the left side of each of the scores above, isn't it?
Having said that, the Pens are going to have to bring their "A" game to the Igloo against the Flyers. You know those lovely fellows from Philly aren't going to want to go 0-8 against the Pens. You also know they'd love to put a dent in the playoff hopes of the Flightless Birds. They managed to pepper Boston with 55 shots the other night in a win. Let's hope the Pens can keep the defense going well enough to prevent that kind of outbreak.
Flyers blog - BroadStreetBully.com
The Flyers bloggers have seemed to lose some enthusiasm for writing about their team. Can't say I blame them - I remember what it was like last year writing about a dismal Penguins team. However, BroadStreetBully.com takes special notice of how quickly Peter Forsberg's foot has healed now that he's in a playoff race. It's like magic!
The Pens are going to need a strong effort to get a win against the Flyers. They'll face new Flyers goalie Martin Biron, who played the Pens and earned a win earlier this year. Let's hope the Pens can avoid a similar fate.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Flyers 4 (SO) on February 8th at Philadelphia
Penguins 5, Flyers 3 on January 13th at Philadelphia
Penguins 8, Flyers 4 on December 13th at Pittsburgh
Penguins 5, Flyers 3 on November 20th at Philadelphia
Penguins 3, Flyers 2 on November 13th at Pittsburgh
Penguins 8, Flyers 2 on October 28th at Philadelphia
Penguins 4, Flyers 0 on October 5th at Pittsburgh
I can't tell you how much fun I had compiling the list of the Pens seven prior victories over the Flyers. It's a beautiful thing to see the Penguins on the left side of each of the scores above, isn't it?
Having said that, the Pens are going to have to bring their "A" game to the Igloo against the Flyers. You know those lovely fellows from Philly aren't going to want to go 0-8 against the Pens. You also know they'd love to put a dent in the playoff hopes of the Flightless Birds. They managed to pepper Boston with 55 shots the other night in a win. Let's hope the Pens can keep the defense going well enough to prevent that kind of outbreak.
Flyers blog - BroadStreetBully.com
The Flyers bloggers have seemed to lose some enthusiasm for writing about their team. Can't say I blame them - I remember what it was like last year writing about a dismal Penguins team. However, BroadStreetBully.com takes special notice of how quickly Peter Forsberg's foot has healed now that he's in a playoff race. It's like magic!
The Pens are going to need a strong effort to get a win against the Flyers. They'll face new Flyers goalie Martin Biron, who played the Pens and earned a win earlier this year. Let's hope the Pens can avoid a similar fate.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, March 02, 2007
Game #64 - at Carolina Hurricanes
Pittsburgh Penguins (34-20-9, 77 pts) at Carolina Hurricanes (32-27-7, 71 pts)
Prior meetings:
Canes 5, Penguins 1 on October 14th in Pittsburgh
Canes 6, Penguins 2 on November 11th in Carolina
Penguins 3, Canes 0 on January 2nd in Pittsburgh
No time to write. Suffice it to say this is one the Pens need this one to stay up in the standing in the East. Things are getting a bit tight, with only 10 points separating spots 5 and 10.
The Canes just lost a home and home with the Sens, so I'm sure they'll be good and ticked. The Pens need to be ready.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Canes 5, Penguins 1 on October 14th in Pittsburgh
Canes 6, Penguins 2 on November 11th in Carolina
Penguins 3, Canes 0 on January 2nd in Pittsburgh
No time to write. Suffice it to say this is one the Pens need this one to stay up in the standing in the East. Things are getting a bit tight, with only 10 points separating spots 5 and 10.
The Canes just lost a home and home with the Sens, so I'm sure they'll be good and ticked. The Pens need to be ready.
Let's Go Pens!
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Game #63 - at New York Rangers
Pittsburgh Penguins (33-20-9, 75 pts) at New York Rangers (30-27-6, 66 pts)
Prior meetings:
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
One of the great joys of the hockey season is realizing that the Rangers and Flyers won't make the playoffs. Looks like both may miss them this year. Add to that the possibility if the Pens entering the fray for the first time in quite a while, and you have Pittsburgh hockey nirvana.
The Pens are in the 5th spot in the East, though they're just four points out of the 9th spot. They really need to beat a team like the Rangers to stay at a decent spot in the standings, because the rest of March doesn't get much easier.
The Rangers have a losing record at home this year, one of only three teams in the East to have that dubious mark (Toronto and Philly are the other two). They also had lost four out of five games (including Philly and Columbus at home - blech!) before shutting out the Habs on Tuesday.
The Pens will have their new guys on the ice against the Rangers. They include Gary Roberts, Georges Laraque and Joel Kwiatkowski. I'm typing those names more for my spelling practice than anything else. Roberts will skate on the first line with Crosby, according to the front page of pittsburghpenguins.com
Rangers blog - Ranger Pundit
Check out this blog - it's written by Mike Savino, who attended his first game in person in 1943!! That's some serious dedication. Sounds like some Stillerz fans I know, but probably without the drunken haze that our Pittsburgh brethren tend to show.
I'm looking for a tight road game. No Shanahan, probably no Straka. Someone please tackle Jagr, or at least show him sad clown faces so he'll get depressed.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Rangers 3, Penguins 2 (SO) on December 7th in New York
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT) on November 25th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 3, Rangers 1 on November 18th in Pittsburgh
Penguins 6, Rangers 5 on October 12th in New York
One of the great joys of the hockey season is realizing that the Rangers and Flyers won't make the playoffs. Looks like both may miss them this year. Add to that the possibility if the Pens entering the fray for the first time in quite a while, and you have Pittsburgh hockey nirvana.
The Pens are in the 5th spot in the East, though they're just four points out of the 9th spot. They really need to beat a team like the Rangers to stay at a decent spot in the standings, because the rest of March doesn't get much easier.
The Rangers have a losing record at home this year, one of only three teams in the East to have that dubious mark (Toronto and Philly are the other two). They also had lost four out of five games (including Philly and Columbus at home - blech!) before shutting out the Habs on Tuesday.
The Pens will have their new guys on the ice against the Rangers. They include Gary Roberts, Georges Laraque and Joel Kwiatkowski. I'm typing those names more for my spelling practice than anything else. Roberts will skate on the first line with Crosby, according to the front page of pittsburghpenguins.com
Rangers blog - Ranger Pundit
Check out this blog - it's written by Mike Savino, who attended his first game in person in 1943!! That's some serious dedication. Sounds like some Stillerz fans I know, but probably without the drunken haze that our Pittsburgh brethren tend to show.
I'm looking for a tight road game. No Shanahan, probably no Straka. Someone please tackle Jagr, or at least show him sad clown faces so he'll get depressed.
Let's Go Pens!
Monday, February 26, 2007
Game #62 - vs New Jersey Devils
New Jersey Devils (39-18-6, 84 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (33-19-9, 75 pts)
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Devils 4 on February 16th in New Jersey
Devils 3, Penguins 0 on December 26th in New Jersey
Devils 5, Penguins 2 on December 1st in New Jersey
Penguins 4, Devils 2 on October 25th in Pittsburgh
Devils 2, Penguins 1 on October 18th in Pittsburgh
The Pens play the Devils three times in the next nine games. The Devils play the Pens three times in their next seven games. What does that mean for the Pens? It means that if they have any serious ambitions about the division title (and the second seed in the playoffs), now is the time to do something about it. That all starts with this game against the Devils.
Marc-Andre Fleury will be back in net for the Penguins. He hasn't had a complete game since Tuesday, February 6th against Nashville. That seems like a long time ago. He'll need to have a complete game against the Devils.
The power play for the Devils has been ice-cold, managing only one goal over the last 4 games (15 chances). The Pens, on the other hand, have a power play goal in five straight games. On the PK, the Pens have been Devil-like in their ability to stay out of the box recently. They've yielded only 12 chances over their last four games. Anytime you can allow only three power plays per game on average, you're doing something right.
The Devils actually had Scott Clemmensen play a game on Sunday, so you know that Brodeur is going to be well rested, and probably pissed that he didn't get to play. Let's hope the Pens can get to him early and get inside his head a bit.
This game needs to be the opposite of the loss against Tampa Bay. If the Pens come out flat and allow a quick goal or two, then they'll have a really hard time coming back. A two-goal deficit to Jersey is like a 4 goal deficit to most anyone else.
Devils blog - 2 Man Advantage
They have a nice roundup of the trade deadline activity. Check it out!
This one will be tough. I'm looking for a gutsy performance from the Pens now that they really need it.
Let's Go Pens!
Prior meetings:
Penguins 5, Devils 4 on February 16th in New Jersey
Devils 3, Penguins 0 on December 26th in New Jersey
Devils 5, Penguins 2 on December 1st in New Jersey
Penguins 4, Devils 2 on October 25th in Pittsburgh
Devils 2, Penguins 1 on October 18th in Pittsburgh
The Pens play the Devils three times in the next nine games. The Devils play the Pens three times in their next seven games. What does that mean for the Pens? It means that if they have any serious ambitions about the division title (and the second seed in the playoffs), now is the time to do something about it. That all starts with this game against the Devils.
Marc-Andre Fleury will be back in net for the Penguins. He hasn't had a complete game since Tuesday, February 6th against Nashville. That seems like a long time ago. He'll need to have a complete game against the Devils.
The power play for the Devils has been ice-cold, managing only one goal over the last 4 games (15 chances). The Pens, on the other hand, have a power play goal in five straight games. On the PK, the Pens have been Devil-like in their ability to stay out of the box recently. They've yielded only 12 chances over their last four games. Anytime you can allow only three power plays per game on average, you're doing something right.
The Devils actually had Scott Clemmensen play a game on Sunday, so you know that Brodeur is going to be well rested, and probably pissed that he didn't get to play. Let's hope the Pens can get to him early and get inside his head a bit.
This game needs to be the opposite of the loss against Tampa Bay. If the Pens come out flat and allow a quick goal or two, then they'll have a really hard time coming back. A two-goal deficit to Jersey is like a 4 goal deficit to most anyone else.
Devils blog - 2 Man Advantage
They have a nice roundup of the trade deadline activity. Check it out!
This one will be tough. I'm looking for a gutsy performance from the Pens now that they really need it.
Let's Go Pens!
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