Andre Roy has cleared waivers as of today. This means the Pens can send him to Wilkes-Barre, keep him on the team, or release him.
I think with the Pens waiving Leclair and Roy, we're seeing a small roster shake-up. If nothing else, the team will be much faster than they are with those two guys in the lineup.
Source - TSN
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Penguins waive John Leclair
There doesn't appear to be any official word yet, but the Pens have waived John Leclair.
He likely has little trade value, so once he clears waivers, he could still remain with the team. He could also be sent to Wilkes-Barre. He could also be released from the team, though I'm not sure they'd do that.
Let's hope that someone picks him up and that he has the chance to go out on his own terms.
Hat tip to Faux for the heads-up. Thanks!
He likely has little trade value, so once he clears waivers, he could still remain with the team. He could also be sent to Wilkes-Barre. He could also be released from the team, though I'm not sure they'd do that.
Let's hope that someone picks him up and that he has the chance to go out on his own terms.
Hat tip to Faux for the heads-up. Thanks!
Quarter Season Report
Since we're just past the first quarter of the season, I thought it would be a good time to take a look at where the team is so far, and where they seem to be headed.
Record: 11-8-4, 26 points
The Pens have 26 points through 23 games. Over an 82 game season, that projects to 92 points. We know from last season that will just barely put the Pens in line for the #8 spot in the playoffs. Last season, it took 92 points in the East and 95 in the West. The Pens are close, but they'll need to improve their play to get there.
Even Strength:
Goals Scored: 43
Goals Allowed: 42
The Pens have been a decent team at 5 on 5 hockey. They have the ability to possess the puck, and their third and fourth lines have done a decent job of keeping the puck in the offensive zone. The hidden stat here is that the Pens have yet to score a goal in a 4 on 4 situation, while allowing 5.
Power Play:
Goals Scored: 22 in 140 chances - 15.7%
Goals Allowed: 3 (1 short-handed, 2 empty net)
I'd have to say the power play is the biggest area of disappointment for me so far this season. The team is ranked 18th on the power play, at 15.7%. They are ranked #8 in the NHL with 140 chances in 23 games. To me, this is the biggest reason they've been unable to maintain a pace that would put them in the playoffs. They need some consistent scoring from the power play. You can see that they've clearly worked on some things - just watch Gonchar or Whitney at the point take the puck and skate laterally to change the shooting and passing angles. They didn't do that as much last year. Results are what counts, however, and the team simply isn't getting any right now.
Penalty Kill:
Goals Scored: 4
Goals Allowed: 24 in 140 chances - 82.9%
This has been another area of improvement over last year, but they are a different team at home versus on the road. At the Igloo, the team kills just over 90% of their penalties, while on the road, they kill just 74%. To put it another way, at home, the Pens are #4 in the NHL on the PK. On the road, the Pens are #27 on the PK. They (obviously) need to improve away from the friendly confines of the Mellon Arena. Shero's acquisitions have made a huge difference here, as Moore and Eaton (before he got hurt) especially have stepped right into prominent roles on the PK. This has also been Jordan Staal's biggest area of impact.
Overall, this is a very important part of the season for the Pens. They have 14 games coming up in December, and earning points now is critical. This isn't a team that has been in the playoff chase before, so I'd say their chances of making it are far better if they're on the inside looking out at the teams chasing them.
I think they can do it. Do you?
Record: 11-8-4, 26 points
The Pens have 26 points through 23 games. Over an 82 game season, that projects to 92 points. We know from last season that will just barely put the Pens in line for the #8 spot in the playoffs. Last season, it took 92 points in the East and 95 in the West. The Pens are close, but they'll need to improve their play to get there.
Even Strength:
Goals Scored: 43
Goals Allowed: 42
The Pens have been a decent team at 5 on 5 hockey. They have the ability to possess the puck, and their third and fourth lines have done a decent job of keeping the puck in the offensive zone. The hidden stat here is that the Pens have yet to score a goal in a 4 on 4 situation, while allowing 5.
Power Play:
Goals Scored: 22 in 140 chances - 15.7%
Goals Allowed: 3 (1 short-handed, 2 empty net)
I'd have to say the power play is the biggest area of disappointment for me so far this season. The team is ranked 18th on the power play, at 15.7%. They are ranked #8 in the NHL with 140 chances in 23 games. To me, this is the biggest reason they've been unable to maintain a pace that would put them in the playoffs. They need some consistent scoring from the power play. You can see that they've clearly worked on some things - just watch Gonchar or Whitney at the point take the puck and skate laterally to change the shooting and passing angles. They didn't do that as much last year. Results are what counts, however, and the team simply isn't getting any right now.
Penalty Kill:
Goals Scored: 4
Goals Allowed: 24 in 140 chances - 82.9%
This has been another area of improvement over last year, but they are a different team at home versus on the road. At the Igloo, the team kills just over 90% of their penalties, while on the road, they kill just 74%. To put it another way, at home, the Pens are #4 in the NHL on the PK. On the road, the Pens are #27 on the PK. They (obviously) need to improve away from the friendly confines of the Mellon Arena. Shero's acquisitions have made a huge difference here, as Moore and Eaton (before he got hurt) especially have stepped right into prominent roles on the PK. This has also been Jordan Staal's biggest area of impact.
Overall, this is a very important part of the season for the Pens. They have 14 games coming up in December, and earning points now is critical. This isn't a team that has been in the playoff chase before, so I'd say their chances of making it are far better if they're on the inside looking out at the teams chasing them.
I think they can do it. Do you?
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Penguins 3, Islanders 2
Wow. When I suggested that Colby would score his first of the year from Sid, I didn't expect it to happen just 1:34 into the game. Not that I'm complaining... quite the contrary! It was great to see the Pens get on the board early.
Of course, they couldn't score on the power play, but that's a minor complaint tonight.
Tonight was all about Flower Power. It was Marc-Andre Fleury's birthday. It was Marc-Andre Fleury bobble head night. It was Marc-Andre Fleury's night to shine, and shine he did. He shined the most during the third period, when the Penguins desperately needed him to shine. This is one of those games that the Pens would have found a way to lose last year. This year, Fleury practically stood on his head and kept the puck out of the net. It was great to see him step up like that on a big night.
The only disappointment I have from tonight is that someone didn't plaster Satan for his cheap hit and subsequent trash talking last Wednesday. I guess I can live with two points for the Pens and zero for the Isles as a worthwhile alternative.
Army almost had the hat trick, but he was hooked while going for an empty net goal. If the ref would have signaled penalty shot, he would have the goal automatically, but he only gave Poti a hooking minor. Someone threw their hat on the ice anyway. I was really happy for Armstrong to see him get his first two goals of the year.
Next up: at New Jersey on Friday and then back home against the Isles (again!) on Saturday.
Of course, they couldn't score on the power play, but that's a minor complaint tonight.
Tonight was all about Flower Power. It was Marc-Andre Fleury's birthday. It was Marc-Andre Fleury bobble head night. It was Marc-Andre Fleury's night to shine, and shine he did. He shined the most during the third period, when the Penguins desperately needed him to shine. This is one of those games that the Pens would have found a way to lose last year. This year, Fleury practically stood on his head and kept the puck out of the net. It was great to see him step up like that on a big night.
The only disappointment I have from tonight is that someone didn't plaster Satan for his cheap hit and subsequent trash talking last Wednesday. I guess I can live with two points for the Pens and zero for the Isles as a worthwhile alternative.
Army almost had the hat trick, but he was hooked while going for an empty net goal. If the ref would have signaled penalty shot, he would have the goal automatically, but he only gave Poti a hooking minor. Someone threw their hat on the ice anyway. I was really happy for Armstrong to see him get his first two goals of the year.
Next up: at New Jersey on Friday and then back home against the Isles (again!) on Saturday.
Game #23 - vs New York Islanders
New York Islanders (12-7-3, 27 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (10-8-4, 24 pts)
The Pens and Isles are teams going in different directions, and it's starting to show in the standings. The Pens have lost three straight (2 on OT), while the Isles have won 4 straight and 6 of 8. They have 13 out of 16 possible points in their last 8 games.
The story for the Isles is still DiPietro. He has been stopping everything that is thrown at him recently, including last Wednesday against the Penguins.
The Isles will be without Alexi Yashin, while Sidney Crosby will return for the Penguins. This is huge for the Pens, who have only managed 5 goals in the three games that Sidney has missed.
I'm looking for a nice home victory tonight with Army finally breaking through for a much needed goal on a nice setup from Sid.
Let's Go Pens!
The Pens and Isles are teams going in different directions, and it's starting to show in the standings. The Pens have lost three straight (2 on OT), while the Isles have won 4 straight and 6 of 8. They have 13 out of 16 possible points in their last 8 games.
The story for the Isles is still DiPietro. He has been stopping everything that is thrown at him recently, including last Wednesday against the Penguins.
The Isles will be without Alexi Yashin, while Sidney Crosby will return for the Penguins. This is huge for the Pens, who have only managed 5 goals in the three games that Sidney has missed.
I'm looking for a nice home victory tonight with Army finally breaking through for a much needed goal on a nice setup from Sid.
Let's Go Pens!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Rangers 2, Penguins 1 (OT)
Wow. Talk about a kick in the gut. That's what the end of the game was if you were watching it. Malkin almost wins the game with a fluky chip shot in OT. Staal can't convert on a penalty shot in OT. The Rangers then get the winning goal with 2.2 seconds remaining in the OT. Kick in the gut. Ugh.
This one was all about the third period. The Pens were protecting a 1-0 lead and got a bit too conservative. The Rangers out shot the Pens 12-4 in the third period. When Jagr caught a lucky bounce, he buried it into the empty cage to the right of Fleury. There was nothing that Flower could have done. Recchi had been shadowing Jagr, but lost track of him, which allowed Jaromir to slip free.
The Pens could have had this one be out of reach if they had been able to convert on a few more power play chances, especially during their two man advantage in the first period. Thankfully, that's exactly when they converted during the second period.
Therrien has been riding Recchi and Malkin really hard in terms of minutes played. It will be good when Sidney returns to have someone else share some of the heavy lifting. Geno really looked tired during parts of the late third period and OT.
One other thing - Nils Eckman was really flying tonight, and was second on the team with 5 shots. That's good to see. Would be nice if some of his teammates might go to the net for any rebounds off of his shots. Nils always looks like he'd teetering on the edge of his skates when he's going full speed - it's kinda funny.
Next up: a rematch with the Isles on Tuesday at the Igloo.
This one was all about the third period. The Pens were protecting a 1-0 lead and got a bit too conservative. The Rangers out shot the Pens 12-4 in the third period. When Jagr caught a lucky bounce, he buried it into the empty cage to the right of Fleury. There was nothing that Flower could have done. Recchi had been shadowing Jagr, but lost track of him, which allowed Jaromir to slip free.
The Pens could have had this one be out of reach if they had been able to convert on a few more power play chances, especially during their two man advantage in the first period. Thankfully, that's exactly when they converted during the second period.
Therrien has been riding Recchi and Malkin really hard in terms of minutes played. It will be good when Sidney returns to have someone else share some of the heavy lifting. Geno really looked tired during parts of the late third period and OT.
One other thing - Nils Eckman was really flying tonight, and was second on the team with 5 shots. That's good to see. Would be nice if some of his teammates might go to the net for any rebounds off of his shots. Nils always looks like he'd teetering on the edge of his skates when he's going full speed - it's kinda funny.
Next up: a rematch with the Isles on Tuesday at the Igloo.
Game #22 - vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers (12-9-1, 25 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (10-8-3, 23 pts)
The Rangers make their second consecutive Saturday night appearance at the Igloo. Hopefully the game yields the same result as last week.
Tonight, the Penguins need to find a way to put the puck in the net, especially on the power play. We were saying the same thing the last time these teams met, and it took two 5 on 3 chances for them to score on the power play. I wouldn't count on getting too many 5 on 3 chances each night.
Scoring tonight will be tough - Lundqvist has been tough since losing to the Pens last Saturday - he stopped 61 of 62 shots over two games for two Ranger victories. The Penguins have been able to get to him twice previously this season, winning each game.
According to Michel Therrien, Evgeni Malkin is okay and should play tonight. That's great news. Now if Sidney Crosby would also suit up (which wouldn't surprise me - he was skating in warm ups yesterday), there could be some rockin' going on at the Igloo.
Colby Armstrong ALMOST had his first goal a few times last night, so I'm going to go out on a limb and say that tonight's the night.
I'm looking for a much needed win at home for the Pens, pulling them into a tie with the Rangers in the Atlantic.
Let's Go Pens!
The Rangers make their second consecutive Saturday night appearance at the Igloo. Hopefully the game yields the same result as last week.
Tonight, the Penguins need to find a way to put the puck in the net, especially on the power play. We were saying the same thing the last time these teams met, and it took two 5 on 3 chances for them to score on the power play. I wouldn't count on getting too many 5 on 3 chances each night.
Scoring tonight will be tough - Lundqvist has been tough since losing to the Pens last Saturday - he stopped 61 of 62 shots over two games for two Ranger victories. The Penguins have been able to get to him twice previously this season, winning each game.
According to Michel Therrien, Evgeni Malkin is okay and should play tonight. That's great news. Now if Sidney Crosby would also suit up (which wouldn't surprise me - he was skating in warm ups yesterday), there could be some rockin' going on at the Igloo.
Colby Armstrong ALMOST had his first goal a few times last night, so I'm going to go out on a limb and say that tonight's the night.
I'm looking for a much needed win at home for the Pens, pulling them into a tie with the Rangers in the Atlantic.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, November 24, 2006
Islanders 3, Penguins 1
This one was simple - the Pens were setup to play the perfect road game. They were generating lots of offense, shooting the puck a lot and dominating the play at even strength. They forgot one thing - you have to put the puck in the net.
I guess we can call this progress because a few weeks back, all we were talking about was the abject lack of shooting. Now we're seeing the shots come, but they're not really making it into the net. Honestly, this is where the Penguins lack of talent on the wings is starting to shine through. They don't have a prime time finisher that can bury the puck. They don't really have a sniper for that matter. Malkin shows signs of being one, as does Ouellet (and I'm still holding out hope for Christensen), but no one has become a great goal scorer. That's really the missing piece for this team right now.
Thibault played reasonably well, though he did misplay the puck that led to the first goal for the Isles. He stopped pretty much all he was supposed to stop.
The other gaping area of weakness right now is the lack of offense on the power play. The Pens simply aren't able to score. Let's hope that changes, and quick. If they are able to get even one or two on the power play today, especially early, it's a totally different game.
Malkin left the game after taking a big hit on his bad shoulder with about 3:00 left in the third period. It was a clean hit, and Evgeni went immediately down the runway. Let's hope that he's okay.
No rest for the weary, as the Pens come back and play at home tomorrow night.
Next up: vs the Rangers at the Igloo.
I guess we can call this progress because a few weeks back, all we were talking about was the abject lack of shooting. Now we're seeing the shots come, but they're not really making it into the net. Honestly, this is where the Penguins lack of talent on the wings is starting to shine through. They don't have a prime time finisher that can bury the puck. They don't really have a sniper for that matter. Malkin shows signs of being one, as does Ouellet (and I'm still holding out hope for Christensen), but no one has become a great goal scorer. That's really the missing piece for this team right now.
Thibault played reasonably well, though he did misplay the puck that led to the first goal for the Isles. He stopped pretty much all he was supposed to stop.
The other gaping area of weakness right now is the lack of offense on the power play. The Pens simply aren't able to score. Let's hope that changes, and quick. If they are able to get even one or two on the power play today, especially early, it's a totally different game.
Malkin left the game after taking a big hit on his bad shoulder with about 3:00 left in the third period. It was a clean hit, and Evgeni went immediately down the runway. Let's hope that he's okay.
No rest for the weary, as the Pens come back and play at home tomorrow night.
Next up: vs the Rangers at the Igloo.
Game #21 - at New York Islanders
Pittsburgh Penguins (10-7-3, 23 pts) at New York Islanders (10-7-3, 23 pts)
The Islanders have been playing quite well of late. They returned from a five game road trip, where they went 3-1-1 (and won in Dallas), to kick the stuffing out of Carolina, out shooting them 48-15 and winning 4-2. They've been winning their games largely due to Rick DiPietro and their play at even strength. Prior to the Wednesday win over the Hurricanes, the Isles had allowed at least 33 shots in each game for their 5 game road trip.
Their special teams have also been nothing special. Their power play is only 2-31 over their last eight games, and went through a two game stretch where they only drew one penalty. Their PK isn't much better, stopping only 30 of 39 chances over the same time frame.
For the Pens to win, they need to win the battles at even strength, which is something they've been pretty decent at this year. They'll also need to start scoring some power play goals. The biggest thing they have in their favor is their record against the Atlantic division - they're 8-1, including a win earlier this season at Long Island.
No word yet on whether Crosby will play.
I'm still looking for a Pens victory, with the first goal of the year from Colby Armstrong!
Let's Go Pens!
The Islanders have been playing quite well of late. They returned from a five game road trip, where they went 3-1-1 (and won in Dallas), to kick the stuffing out of Carolina, out shooting them 48-15 and winning 4-2. They've been winning their games largely due to Rick DiPietro and their play at even strength. Prior to the Wednesday win over the Hurricanes, the Isles had allowed at least 33 shots in each game for their 5 game road trip.
Their special teams have also been nothing special. Their power play is only 2-31 over their last eight games, and went through a two game stretch where they only drew one penalty. Their PK isn't much better, stopping only 30 of 39 chances over the same time frame.
For the Pens to win, they need to win the battles at even strength, which is something they've been pretty decent at this year. They'll also need to start scoring some power play goals. The biggest thing they have in their favor is their record against the Atlantic division - they're 8-1, including a win earlier this season at Long Island.
No word yet on whether Crosby will play.
I'm still looking for a Pens victory, with the first goal of the year from Colby Armstrong!
Let's Go Pens!
Thursday, November 23, 2006
Bruins 4, Penguins 3 (OT - SO)
The Penguins got to a shootout for the first time this season. It didn't go very well. The combination of Michel Ouellet, Evgeni Malkin and Sergei Gonchar couldn't get a goal behind Tim Thomas. Ouellet and Malkin both fired off wrist shots, trying to catch Thomas early. Gonchar tried about a million dekes with the puck, but Thomas didn't seem very concerned and easily stopped the shot attempt.
Prior to the shootout, this game was defined by two main points:
It was nice to see the team come back and get a point out of this one, but it only feels like a shallow victory. I guess that's the difference between this year and last year.
Next up: at the Islanders on Friday afternoon.
Prior to the shootout, this game was defined by two main points:
- The Penguins are having a horrible time on the power play lately. They had only one goal in 9 chances tonight. This game could have been won in regulation if they could just convert a few more of those chances.
- Evgeni Malkin showed signs in the third period of being able to take over a game. He was dominant late in the contest. That's something the Pens need to see more of from him. We know Sidney has that instinct - for Geno to have it too would be a huge plus.
It was nice to see the team come back and get a point out of this one, but it only feels like a shallow victory. I guess that's the difference between this year and last year.
Next up: at the Islanders on Friday afternoon.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Sidney Crosby to miss game against Boston Bruins
Crosby injured his groin on Monday against the Flyers. He'll miss tonight's game at home against Boston and is questionable for Friday and Saturday.
Faux - I think you're right - Malkin will be the #1 center and the team will rally around this to play well without him. I look for a rough and tumble game with Armstrong stepping up (like you said earlier, Will).
Hat tip to Will for pointing this out.
Source - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Faux - I think you're right - Malkin will be the #1 center and the team will rally around this to play well without him. I look for a rough and tumble game with Armstrong stepping up (like you said earlier, Will).
Hat tip to Will for pointing this out.
Source - Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Game #20 - vs Boston Bruins
Boston Bruins (8-8-2, 18 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (10-7-2, 22 pts)
Are the Penguins ready to take the next step? Are they ready to beat the teams they "should" beat? I hope so, because this is one of those games. They should beat the Bruins.
The Bruins have an odd schedule this year - they opened with five straight games on the road, and then played 11 out of 13 games at home. Before their loss to Florida on Monday, they'd won four straight at home (one in OT and two in a shootout), so they're playing a little bit better. The Bruins are one of those teams that the Pens could be competing against for the last playoff spot, so it would be nice to make sure they come away from tonight's game with zero points.
On the road, the Bruins are only 2-4-1. They are tied for the second worst PK in the league at 75.9%, and have allowed 14 goals in 48 chances on the road. This means they're averaging almost 7 short-handed situations per game on the road. Certainly the Penguins should be able to take advantage of this.
The Pens need to toughen up their PK. They started out the season really well, but are starting to slip back to number similar to last year. Right now, they're at an 82% efficiency rate on the PK, and that won't bode well for long term success. They allowed three PP goals by the Flyers on Monday night.
The Pens also seem to have a "magic formula" - they haven't lost this season when they've scored at least four goals. In fact, their record when scoring 3 or less is 2-7-2, and when scoring 4 or more is 8-0-0. Crank up the offense!
Let's hope that Sidney's groin isn't serious, and that Army can net his first goal tonight - he was close the other night a few times.
Let's Go Pens!
Are the Penguins ready to take the next step? Are they ready to beat the teams they "should" beat? I hope so, because this is one of those games. They should beat the Bruins.
The Bruins have an odd schedule this year - they opened with five straight games on the road, and then played 11 out of 13 games at home. Before their loss to Florida on Monday, they'd won four straight at home (one in OT and two in a shootout), so they're playing a little bit better. The Bruins are one of those teams that the Pens could be competing against for the last playoff spot, so it would be nice to make sure they come away from tonight's game with zero points.
On the road, the Bruins are only 2-4-1. They are tied for the second worst PK in the league at 75.9%, and have allowed 14 goals in 48 chances on the road. This means they're averaging almost 7 short-handed situations per game on the road. Certainly the Penguins should be able to take advantage of this.
The Pens need to toughen up their PK. They started out the season really well, but are starting to slip back to number similar to last year. Right now, they're at an 82% efficiency rate on the PK, and that won't bode well for long term success. They allowed three PP goals by the Flyers on Monday night.
The Pens also seem to have a "magic formula" - they haven't lost this season when they've scored at least four goals. In fact, their record when scoring 3 or less is 2-7-2, and when scoring 4 or more is 8-0-0. Crank up the offense!
Let's hope that Sidney's groin isn't serious, and that Army can net his first goal tonight - he was close the other night a few times.
Let's Go Pens!
Monday, November 20, 2006
Penguins 5, Flyers 3
Tonight's game was the prototype for how the Penguins should play. The offensive guys displayed some great skills. The goalie was solid. The role players did their job in terrific fashion, especially in the third period.
I'm not sure who the three stars are for tonight, but I'm nominating the role players. Specifically, I'm putting up Talbot, Thorburn, Ruutu and especially Petrovicky. When I looked and saw that Petro only played a little over 8 minutes, I was shocked. You really noticed when he was on the ice - he made his presence felt. Let's go back to the quote he provided before the season started, because I think it was exemplified by his play tonight:
Sidney Crosby has some mystery injury and didn't play in the third period, though the Pens had a three goal lead that was never really threatened, so they may have just rested him. He had gone to the locker room, come back out and played on the power play, and then gone right back to the locker room. There has been no news yet as to what happened to him.
It goes without saying that the best thing about tonight is that the Pens are now 4-0 against the Flyers.
UPDATE - The Wife has informed me that they really should have Sidney Crosby wear a shirt when they interview him about his injury. I'm going to have to get revenge by watching the episode of Lost with Evangeline Lilly crawling in and out of her cage. Oh, and Sidney's injury is a groin issue. He'll see how it's feeling over the next few days.
Next up: vs Boston on Wednesday.
I'm not sure who the three stars are for tonight, but I'm nominating the role players. Specifically, I'm putting up Talbot, Thorburn, Ruutu and especially Petrovicky. When I looked and saw that Petro only played a little over 8 minutes, I was shocked. You really noticed when he was on the ice - he made his presence felt. Let's go back to the quote he provided before the season started, because I think it was exemplified by his play tonight:
"They want to make a new statement and bring young blood into the team and organization - to spark it up," he said. "I want us to be tough to play against - teams coming in have us on their minds a little bit. They won't be happy to play against us because we will be tough to play against and make them pay the price for the length of the hockey game."I couldn't have said it better myself, Ronald. Here's hoping he can keep it going - the Pens will be better for it.
Sidney Crosby has some mystery injury and didn't play in the third period, though the Pens had a three goal lead that was never really threatened, so they may have just rested him. He had gone to the locker room, come back out and played on the power play, and then gone right back to the locker room. There has been no news yet as to what happened to him.
It goes without saying that the best thing about tonight is that the Pens are now 4-0 against the Flyers.
UPDATE - The Wife has informed me that they really should have Sidney Crosby wear a shirt when they interview him about his injury. I'm going to have to get revenge by watching the episode of Lost with Evangeline Lilly crawling in and out of her cage. Oh, and Sidney's injury is a groin issue. He'll see how it's feeling over the next few days.
Next up: vs Boston on Wednesday.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Game #19 - at Philadelphia Flyers
Pittsburgh Penguins (9-7-2, 20 pts) at Philadelphia Flyers (5-13-2, 12 pts)
sssshhhhh! Don't look now, but the Flyers have been playing better of late (except for their hiccup in San Jose on Saturday night). They went through the same 3 game West Coast swing that the Penguins did, except that the Flyers won in Anaheim and Los Angeles. Admittedly, Anaheim has been coming back to earth a bit, but anytime an East Coast team can go on a three game road trip to Anaheim, LA and San Jose and come out with two wins, they're playing pretty decently.
Add to this mess the fact that the Penguins historically struggle in Philadelphia, and you have a recipe for disaster. I'm hoping the Penguins can avoid the quagmire and step up their game. They are over .500 at home, and Philly is 2-5-2 at home.
For the Pens, the formula is as simple as it has been recently. Take advantage of the man-advantage and play even the rest of the time. Easier said than done, I know, especially against a strong PK like Philly, but no one ever said this would be easy.
One other thing - the Pens need to keep their noses above the nonsense. Unless, that is, someone (like Thorburn or Roy) can get that wimp Hatcher to fight. Then they should go for it with aplomb.
I'm looking for a tough road win, with Colby Armstrong's first goal of the year.
Let's Go Pens!
sssshhhhh! Don't look now, but the Flyers have been playing better of late (except for their hiccup in San Jose on Saturday night). They went through the same 3 game West Coast swing that the Penguins did, except that the Flyers won in Anaheim and Los Angeles. Admittedly, Anaheim has been coming back to earth a bit, but anytime an East Coast team can go on a three game road trip to Anaheim, LA and San Jose and come out with two wins, they're playing pretty decently.
Add to this mess the fact that the Penguins historically struggle in Philadelphia, and you have a recipe for disaster. I'm hoping the Penguins can avoid the quagmire and step up their game. They are over .500 at home, and Philly is 2-5-2 at home.
For the Pens, the formula is as simple as it has been recently. Take advantage of the man-advantage and play even the rest of the time. Easier said than done, I know, especially against a strong PK like Philly, but no one ever said this would be easy.
One other thing - the Pens need to keep their noses above the nonsense. Unless, that is, someone (like Thorburn or Roy) can get that wimp Hatcher to fight. Then they should go for it with aplomb.
I'm looking for a tough road win, with Colby Armstrong's first goal of the year.
Let's Go Pens!
Penguins 3, Rangers 1
Didn't get to see this one - but it's nice to see that the power play actually converted two 5 on 3 chances, and then put the Rangers away with a late goal.
Mark Recchi scored twice, and Jordan Staal was in the right place at the right time on the power play to get his 7th goal of the year.
Last night was the Penguins debut of Ronald Petrovicky, who we should all be able to enjoy watching, especially when on a line with Ruutu and Thorburn.
Noah Welch, for the second time in three games, played less than 10 minutes. I think when Mark Eaton returns, you're going to see Noah get sent back to Wilkes-Barre (barring some kind of trade).
Here's what Will had to say in the comments from the game preview (hope you don't mind me highlighting your comment, Will!)
Next up: at Philadelphia on Monday, kicking off a busy Thanksgiving week.
Mark Recchi scored twice, and Jordan Staal was in the right place at the right time on the power play to get his 7th goal of the year.
Last night was the Penguins debut of Ronald Petrovicky, who we should all be able to enjoy watching, especially when on a line with Ruutu and Thorburn.
Noah Welch, for the second time in three games, played less than 10 minutes. I think when Mark Eaton returns, you're going to see Noah get sent back to Wilkes-Barre (barring some kind of trade).
Here's what Will had to say in the comments from the game preview (hope you don't mind me highlighting your comment, Will!)
Turned out to be a great defensive game for the Pens. The only big mistakes I saw were by Whitney. He had a few turnovers, one that turned into the Rags sole goal, and another that would have been a goal but Fleury was ready. Besides that they looked really good. Petro impressed me and made me miss Eaton all that much more. Surprised to see LeClair as a scratch but can't say I disagree. PP was 2/139 or something but at least they had a few goals.Great win for the Pens.
Next up: at Philadelphia on Monday, kicking off a busy Thanksgiving week.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
Game #18 - vs New York Rangers
New York Rangers (10-8-1, 21 pts) at Pittsburgh Penguins (8-7-2, 18 pts)
The plan tonight should be simple - the Rangers will take their share of penalties. The Penguins need to:
Other than that, Jagr is going for goal #600. Much as I like Jaromir, I'd rather see him get it somewhere else.
Let's Go Pens!
The plan tonight should be simple - the Rangers will take their share of penalties. The Penguins need to:
- Score on the power play (very important)
- Minimize the Rangers chances by not taking stupid penalties
- Avoid the shootout (Lundqvist is perfect in shootouts this year, in that he hasn't allowed a single goal)
Other than that, Jagr is going for goal #600. Much as I like Jaromir, I'd rather see him get it somewhere else.
Let's Go Pens!
Friday, November 17, 2006
Sabres 4, Penguins 2
Tonight's game was very winnable. In fact, if the Pens would have done one thing extra, I think they would have come away with at least one point. What is that one thing? SCORE ON THE POWER PLAY!!
This one was there for the taking. The Sabres played well, but so did Thibault. The Pens managed 36 shots on Biron, but he was also quite good in net. They couldn't get that critical goal that would have put them back into the game prior to the scramble at the end. I'm not sure what's wrong with the power play right now, except that all they can seem to manage is to pass the puck around the perimeter, with no one looking to be aggressive. Malkin was lined up in the slot for one of the opportunities I saw tonight, and he never touched the puck. Either shoot the one-timer from the point, or have someone on the sideboards make a move to try to create some space.
Anyway, the special teams were pretty much the story of the game. The Sabres notch two PP goals, the Pens can't get anything on their chances.
Next up: the Rangers at home, tomorrow night. Jagr is going for goal #600. If he gets it, we can all die a little inside. Preview up tomorrow.
This one was there for the taking. The Sabres played well, but so did Thibault. The Pens managed 36 shots on Biron, but he was also quite good in net. They couldn't get that critical goal that would have put them back into the game prior to the scramble at the end. I'm not sure what's wrong with the power play right now, except that all they can seem to manage is to pass the puck around the perimeter, with no one looking to be aggressive. Malkin was lined up in the slot for one of the opportunities I saw tonight, and he never touched the puck. Either shoot the one-timer from the point, or have someone on the sideboards make a move to try to create some space.
Anyway, the special teams were pretty much the story of the game. The Sabres notch two PP goals, the Pens can't get anything on their chances.
Next up: the Rangers at home, tomorrow night. Jagr is going for goal #600. If he gets it, we can all die a little inside. Preview up tomorrow.
Game #17 - at Buffalo Sabres
Pittsburgh Penguins (8-6-2, 18 pts) at Buffalo Sabres (15-2-1, 31 pts)
Time for the hurting to begin.
Tonight, the Pens play the Buffalo Sabres, who are the #1 team in the NHL with 31 points. The only silver lining to this right off of the bat is that the Sabres are only 5-2-1 at home (as opposed to 10-0-0 on the road). Unfortunately, they just lost at home to Ottawa, so they're likely to be angry.
The Sabres are the #1 team in goal scoring (by far) this season, with 82 goals in just 18 games. With the way the Penguins allow shots, it could get ugly. The Pens are also likely to play Jocelyn Thibault in goal. The Sabres, feeling charitable, are going to start Martin Biron - he of the .886 save percentage. The Pens need lots of shots tonight!
On special teams, the Sabres are just about even with the Pens - their power play is maybe a little better, while their PK is a little worse. The only difference is that they get more PP chances while taking far fewer penalties. The Pens can't afford to spend the evening in the penalty box.
If the Pens play a tight road game, skate well, and stay out of the box, they have a chance for this to be a close one. If they come unraveled on any of those aforementioned items, the Sabres will lower the boom.
I'm hoping for at least a point out of the game (if not two), and the first goal from Colby Armstrong!!
Let's Go Pens!
Time for the hurting to begin.
Tonight, the Pens play the Buffalo Sabres, who are the #1 team in the NHL with 31 points. The only silver lining to this right off of the bat is that the Sabres are only 5-2-1 at home (as opposed to 10-0-0 on the road). Unfortunately, they just lost at home to Ottawa, so they're likely to be angry.
The Sabres are the #1 team in goal scoring (by far) this season, with 82 goals in just 18 games. With the way the Penguins allow shots, it could get ugly. The Pens are also likely to play Jocelyn Thibault in goal. The Sabres, feeling charitable, are going to start Martin Biron - he of the .886 save percentage. The Pens need lots of shots tonight!
On special teams, the Sabres are just about even with the Pens - their power play is maybe a little better, while their PK is a little worse. The only difference is that they get more PP chances while taking far fewer penalties. The Pens can't afford to spend the evening in the penalty box.
If the Pens play a tight road game, skate well, and stay out of the box, they have a chance for this to be a close one. If they come unraveled on any of those aforementioned items, the Sabres will lower the boom.
I'm hoping for at least a point out of the game (if not two), and the first goal from Colby Armstrong!!
Let's Go Pens!
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Malkin preliminary injunction denied
The preliminary injunction sought by Metallurg Magnitogorsk to prevent Evgeni Malkin from playing in the NHL has been denied. He is free to continue playing while his case is being settled.
I think the technical term we're looking for here is "No duh!"
Source - pittsburghpenguins.com
I think the technical term we're looking for here is "No duh!"
Source - pittsburghpenguins.com
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