Playoff Game #8 - vs Montreal Canadiens

Playoff Game 8

Montreal Canadiens at Pittsburgh Penguins

Penguins lead series 1-0.

Why does it matter?
Holding serve at home is important. It puts all of the pressure on the other team when you go back to their building.

What has been happening lately?

• Pens - The power play took over in a big way with four goals in four chances.
• Canadiens - Halak played poorly and the Habs suffered because of it.

Questions to be answered

• Can the power play stay hot? We've seen spurts from this group before, but not anything that could be considered consistent.
• Can Flower stop allowing one on the softer side as a precursor to some great saves? Can't we just skip to the great saves?
• Which team will miss their injured players more - the Habs with Markov or the Pens with Staal? My money is on the Habs. They don't have an overwhelming offense to begin with, so while Staal's absence will hurt, I think the Pens can overcome that.
• Which goalie will play for the Habs?

Keys to the game

• Win the battle at even strength. You can't count on scoring multiple power play goals.
• Be disciplined as a unit. With Staal missing, everyone will need to put some more emphasis on defensive responsibilities. Also, the PK will see a new regular member.
• Avoid the slow start. One of these days, allowing the first goal is going to burn the Pens.