Penguins Gameday 4/8/10 - Farewell to a Good Friend

Normally I would talk about the Penguins getting ready to face the New York Islanders and how the Pens probably need the two points up for grabs tonight. But my attention will be to the grand ole Igloo. Once the Consol Energy Center was announced you all started to think of all the great times at the Igloo. We held our own Mellon Memories contest, receiving emails from all walks of life talking about the greatness of Mellon Arena. You can read a few of the entries here.

Last pregame I talked about my dad taking me to my first game at the Igloo, we lost 8-0 to the Caps. Over the last 15 years I have tried to go to at least one game a year. Last season was one of the best. Scoring free tickets from my cousins mother in law we sat in the F balcony for game one versus the Hurricanes. Taking my cousins wife to the game was humorous, she grew up in Texas far from any hockey. When Fleury robbed Eric Staal early in the game chants of FLEURY, FLEURY, FLEURY echoed in the arena she asked You all like this guy don't you. The best part of the game was seeing 17,132 stand up in unison to see Miro Satan score on a breakaway.

So many great memories, and hopefully this playoffs, the Cup will be hoisted by the Pens at home to close the doors on an old friend.

Dupuis-Crosby-Guerin
Ponikarovsky-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Kennedy
Adams-Talbot-Rupp

Gonchar-Eaton
Orpik-Letang
Leopold-Goligoski

Fleury

My Keys to Tonights game:

1.) Honor the Mellon - then play your hearts out.

2.) Don't take the Islanders for granted (like Tampa)

3.) Out work, out skate, out hit for 60+ minutes

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Penguins Gameday 3/20/10 - Welcome Home

Its a hockey night...crap, 1:00 pm game in Pittsburgh. Anyone else really, really hate afternoon games. So this afternoon the Penguins play host to the Carolina Hurricanes at the Mellon. Pittsburgh is coming off a five game road trip that had its ups and downs, but finished very strong with an emotional 3-0 win against the Bruins.

Because of the early start time, no practice will be held this morning so no official word on Evgeni Malkin will skate. So line ups are a guess but here it goes.

Kunitz-Crosby-Dupuis
Ponikarovsky-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Guerin
Rupp-Adams-Kennedy
(Malkin)

Gonchar-Eaton
Orpik-Letang
Leopold-Goligoski

Fleury

My keys for tonight's, crap afternoons game.

1.) fore check - it worked so well against Boston, keep it up.
2.) Penalty kill - wow its been great, now 8Th in the NHL
3.) Keep Staal, under wraps...Eric not Jordan

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Penguins Gameday 3/11/10 - The Boss is in the Building

Hey PensUniverse faithful just a little late getting the pregame to you. The big news for to nights game is that our boss Damian is at the game in his back yard of North Carolina. Hopefully the black and gold with put on a show for Damian tonight.

Kunitz-Crosby-Guerin
Ponikarovsky-Malkin-Fedotenko
Cooke-Staal-Dupuis
Rupp-Talbot-Adams

Gonchar-Eaton
Orpik-Letang
Leopold-Goligoski

Johnson

You will notice that Kennedy is out of the line up and may miss the whole five game road trip. Bad for Kennedy but good news for Bylsma as he will get to see who will be the odd mad out for the playoff run. Also Eric Godard skated for the first time with the team this morning. Marc Andre Fleury gets the night off to prepare for the New Jersey Devils tomorrow night.

My thoughts for the game:

1.) Project Johnson - He usually holds his own, but play some good defense in front of him
2.) Hit Parade - Get physical early and often.
3.) Power Play - i can't say it enough.


Oh by the way Pens fans Jordan and Eric Staal are brothers.

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29 games to get a road win?

One of the infamous short recaps tonight due to a Pens loss and mutilated keyboard, thanks to my 2 year old. Roughly 8 keys are missing including the 2, 5, H, V, B, N, M, and the ENTER. That just took me 3 minutes to write.


On to some thoughts..

This game reminded me much of the last against the Hawks. Solid overall game, a few burst of energy, a bunch of missed opportunities, and Fleury letting a few by that shouldn't have...mainly the first and third goals. Jokinen's second goal caught Flower out of position and was actually a halfway decent play, I'll give him that. Billy G wet toe to toe with Gleason, but unfortunately lost the fight...so much for the energy boost. The game did shift a little bit in the second period momentum wise. Pens started out on the PP but didn't convert. Then after Walker slid one by Fleury, who was on the cusp of being pulled. Sid then chopped the Pens first goal in through what appeared to be a quarter slot. He reminds me of Steve Nash in basketball, you give them and inch and that's all they need to score. Pardon the NBA reference. Forty-nine seconds later the man/myth/legend Mike Rupp tallied the Pens one goal away from tying the game up. Sadly that was it for scoring. The Canes dropped the puck ball from there and went to a defensive strategy and only registered 10 SOG in the final 2 periods. Even with chance after chance, the hockey gods weren't in the Pens corner. Up to the last seconds they had a solid chances and couldn't sink it.

And yes, it look the Canes 29 games to win on the road. So what if it was against us. They also beat us to get into the playoffs last year and we all know how that ended up.

• Geno had a bunch of turnovers and didn't get a real decent shot off; 4 mins in penalties.
  
• Sid played well but to me it looks like the groin still nags him. Hopefully its just me. 20th goal of the season. A sick 26:32 TOI.
  
• JStaal played mediocre. Sesame Street line started off well, but...
  
• Dupuis and Adams played well on the forecheck and PK. 
• Letang doesn't look all there. Doesn't have his mojo back just yet.
• Need to scratch Godawful and play Letestu. 
  
• Andrew Alberts shouldn't score, hands down.

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Final Update - Live Game Day Notes: Carolina

First off good luck to Jagrmeister on his first day at the new job.  With him out of the loop today waiting on his new phone I'm gonna do a lil' live blog leading up to tonight's game.

The Carolina Hurricanes come into town with their 0-10-3 road record as easily the biggest disappointment of the young season.  Rumors grumble that major shakeups are coming with a solid group of veterans who are in the last year of their contracts being actively shopped.  It's choppy water for Paul Maurice right now.

Your projected lineup given the developments:

Talbot-Crosby-Guerin

Dupuis-Malkin-Fedotenko

Cooke-Staal-Kennedy

Rupp-Adams-Godard
 

Gonchar-Orpik

McKee-Letang

Eaton-Skoula
 

Fleury

Post Skate Information: (Last updated 11:32 EST)
Sidney Crosby is a GO tonight for the Canes.  Sid had this to say after the skate:

"I'm in," Crosby said. "I've had a good couple days of rest and got it worked on. There's no more pain. That's all I really wanted to get rid of. I can deal with it right now."

News from the Skate (last updated 11:11 EST) 
- Sid, Kunitz and Goligoski all took the morning skate.  The Penguins list their statuses officially as Unknown for Sid and Doubtful for Kunitz and GoGo.  None of them were wearing red no-contact jerseys.

If you find yourself unable to watch the game tonight but have a Twitter account and a data plan follow @SLBD_InGame for every major game update via Twitter.

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Pens Win: GENOcide in Raleigh

Recap courtesy of Nicole Tracey.

The Pens traveled to the RBC Center for their first match up of the season with the Hurricanes. The Canes looked to have revenge in their veins as the last time the two met the Pens were crushed the Canes' hopes of getting back to the Stanley Cup finals with a ECF sweep.

The game was worth more than the price of admission with an overtime/shootout extravaganza. Geno once again showed his continued dominance with 2 more points added to his totals.

The Pens coaching staff started the game with a lot of mix and matching of the lines, though the third and fourth lines looked particularly extremely strong. It seemed as though MAF had been working on his clearing a puck from behind the net as he looks much more confident in doing so this start of the season. The first period seemed to drag along before Tuomo Ruutu landed a nice hit on Tanger. But instead of a retalliation of fists Mike Rupp decided to use a differnet method. The Canes get caught in the Pens zone while Rupp ripped up ice. He uses a sweet (and i mean sweet) backhand top shelf shot over the glove hand side of Cam Ward or according to Bob Errey, "and that's where they put the peanut butter". Cam Ward doesn't no whether to cry or wind his watch. [1-0] Big goal from a scappy fourth liner. Gogo and Geno were credited with the assists. Time of the goal 14:24. According to Damian it sucked the life out of the RBC.

At the end of the first, the Pens lead in the shot department 9-8. No penalties in the first either.

The KGB starts the second period with the Pens leading 1-0. Fleury makes a couple saves on E-Staal and Whitney. Kennedy showed great speed on a break away chance though doesn't get much on the shot, Ward makes the glove save. No more than 2 minutes later, Cam Ward's worst nightmare appears in the form of Evgeni Malkin. He who stole thou art liquor license only a few months back. A beautiful pass play from Kunitz to Dupers to then set up Geno for another sick short side shot to the top shelf. [2-0]

Godard was not in the line up tonight so we got a chance to get a better look at Chris Bourque. From his time on the ice he skated pretty strong (and quick), and did get some good chances in front of the net. We even saw him playing along side Sid and Geno for a while.

Crosby then took a retaliatory penalty against Brindy...12 seconds later Ruutu takes a holding penalty on Gonchar. Geno peppered Ward with a few wicked shots through traffic. No dice.

At 8:12 Aaron Ward takes a hooking penalty. The initial PP unit then consisted of Staal, Malkin, Crosby, Gonchar, and Goligoski. A couple nice shots from the point but all that came from that powerplay was a call on Kunitz for tripping. No dice.

Canes PP was killed and the KGB line went into to action. Their forecheck was absolutely amazing. Beautiful passing between Gonch and Gogo on the blueline. That line did everything right, save score. "The Canes are so tired they are starting to look like pylons." This quote from Bob Errey pretty much sums up that shift from the top line.

Shortly after Yelle goes to the box at 16:25 for high sticking Geno. Sid get a couple good chances on net but that's it. Had a few chances to finish the game, but nothing.

Flower makes a great save on Eric Staal to end the period who got a scoring chances from a turn over in the neutral zone. He's been solid all year.

Pens end the second period up 14-10 in shots on net.

The start of the third was quite slow and frustrating in my opinion. The Pens cleared the puck out of their own zone which was good, but they weren't in attack mode. When they finally do show some offense the Canes do the same to them and push back into their zone. A ton of up and down. Ray Whitney eventually fires a shot that trickles through Fleur legs into the net 5 minutes into the period. [2-1] Ruutu and Corvo are credited the assists.

But the KGB line decides to put on some more magic tricks. Sid send a ridiculous pass to Kunitz, and then from Kunitz to Guerin. [3-1] right? No. Cam Ward makes what appears to be the game winning save, on Bill Guerin. The War Room decides to review but they say no goal. Billy G is not my lover.

The Canes began to then play some great shutdown defense through the neutral zone. Once again the Pens couldn't clear the puck from their own zone and Gleason fires a shot into traffic and Ray Whitney is there to deflect it in. [2-2] B.S. Gleason and Ruutu are given the assists.

Canes then get a powerplay, but the Pens kill that like Ol' Yeller. After a little while the Pens got their own chance at a powerplay after Aaron Ward was caught high sticking Letang. You could see Cam Ward mouthing off to the Letang after the call, to wit Errey makes the following comment, "..he's not a beaver, get to the box" No idea.

The Canes looked as if they were on the powerplay even though they were the ones short-handed. Pens had nothing.

Crosby ends the third period with a great defensive play after Free Candy breaks his stick on a pass. Shots are 11-10 in favor of the Guins.

Geno and Fedo get some great chances on Montgomery Ward but nothing hit the back of the net. Crosby and Kunitz get their crack at it still nothing. Shootout time.

Canes shoot first Fleury stops Sergei Samsonov.

Letang shoots first for the Pens, stop by Cam Ward

Next up, Jussi Jokinen goes back hand over MAF, [0-1]

Sid the Kid gets his chance, pulls a similar back hand (with more style) top shelf [1-1]

Fleury stops the next 4 Cane shooter; Ruutu, Cullen, Whitney and (despite a loud crowd) E-Staal.

Ward stop the next three; Guerin, Gogo and Geno, but for Ward the fourth is not the charm.

Chris Kunitz goes five hole on Ward.

Game 3-2 Pens in SO.

• The Pens go 5-0 on the road to set a franchise record for most consecutive road wins to open a season..
  
• Pens outs hot the Canes 38-29.
  
• The always smooth skating Gonchar and Gogo looked especially well working the blue-line tonight. 
• Likewise did the pairing of Letang and Eaton
• Pens went 0-4 on the powerplay tonight, but kept the Canes at 0-3 as well. Special teams did not decide the game.
  
• Fleury is looking as strong as ever.
• Oh yeah Jordan and Eric are brothers ;)

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Penguins Gameday -10/14/09

The Pens finally return to my home of Raleigh tonight. Unfortunately, I'm not going (at this point). Still looking for tickets. Damn economic crunch. The Canes administrative staff didn't accommodate me this time either. Probably for the same reason.

Though the last time they were here I did see them, and it was in fact May 26th, game 4 of the ECF. What a glorious night that was to share with Pens fans from far and wide watching our boys sweep the Canes in the RBC and claim the Prince of Wales trophy for the second year in a row. Here's a link to some of my pics.

But that was last year.

Staal Wars happens for the second time this year, this time battle of the offense. Jordan is up so far in points 4 to Eric's 2. According to Kulka's Korner however Eric didn't practice yesterday but is expected to play.

Maurice is quoted saying, "We just want to make sure feels 100 percent. He plays so much for us. He was a little tight in practice yesterday, so we figure another day and he'll be ready to go. We expect him to play tomorrow."

The lines don't look any different than they usually do. Though my guess is we'll see a combination of Malkin and Staal again. Clearly that combo is making a statement.

Kunitz - Crosby - Guerin

Dupuis - Malkin - Fedetenko

Cooke - Staal - Kennedy

Rupp - Adams - Godard

Orpik - Gonchar

Eaton - Letang

McKee - Goligoski

Fleury

I anticipate a strong effort from the Canes tonight. They want to show their hometown fans they've made improvements upon last years team and they can compete. Though their record is 2-3 they did show they have some fire power offensively scoring 7 goals against the Lightning the other night. That done without Eric Cole getting on the score sheet. The Pens will need to do just what they did last year and be ready to defend against a strong forecheck. The careless turnover's from the last few games won't fly against this Canes team. Conversely I think we're going to see a big night from Geno. He clearly benefits from the Canes fierce fore/backcheck since it opens up the neutral zone quite a bit.

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Pens @ Canes - The Clincher [Game 4 Recap]

[By Derek Tarr]

Period 1:

Before game 4 started you knew that the Canes were going to come out blazing and throwing everything they had at the Pens and they did. They sustained pressure in the Pens zone for the opening moments of the game and all you could hope was that the Pens could stave it off. But at the 1:36 mark Eric Stall finally came out of exile and tucked a wrap around behind Flower. The Pens remained under siege for the first 6 minutes of the game but Fleury bailed us out and kept it a 1-0 game. At the 8:21 mark of the first Fedetenko got on the score sheet again, tipping in a beautiful shot/pass by Boucher. Tenks yet again puts in a huge goal when we needed it. From this point forward the Penguins owned the Canes, beating them to pucks, cycling the puck in the offensive zone , and taking the physical play to the Canes. With a little under 2 minutes to play in the first Mad Max gets contested break out of the zone and lets a innocent wrist shot go that get deflected up in the air towards Ward, and flutters over his glove and into the net. Welcome to the Thunderdome Cam.

Period 2:

The second period was more of the same from the first. Pens dominated the majority of the play and seemed to be sucking the life out of the Canes. Just before the halfway mark of the period Bill Guerin takes a holding call to cancel out a Penguins powerplay. Shortly after Guerin’s penalty ended, he found Crosby with a nice exit pass from the zone and hustled to create a 2 on 1, Crosby throws the puck across the goal mouth to G.I. Joe, Bill Guerin. 3-1 Pens. The rest of the period was a prolonged display of puck management by the pens

Period 3:

The third was pretty uneventful as the Penguins seemed content to puck handle at slowly drain the life out of the Hurricanes. The Canes brought pressure; the pens matched it, pretty much a microcosm of the series. With a little over 2 minutes to go the Hurricanes pulled ward and with time ticking down in the game Crosby and Craig Adams broke down the ice on a 2 on 1, Crosby passes up a chance to pad his stats and passes to Adams so he can rub in into his old team. He snaps home a wrister into the empty net. 4-1 Pens. Game Pens, Series Pens.

Analysis:

We are going dancing with lord Stanley once again. The Penguins handed the Canes their asses in every game this series and proved that they were worthy of the trip to the finals. After the Washington series all Penguins fans needed this flogging. The canes played their hearts out and gave all the had every night, unfortunately for them the Penguins had more. We need to all enjoy this one for a couple of days or for a week and half until the next round starts. No matter who we face I like our chances. Now for my awards.

Series MVP: Geno

What more can you say about this guy, he stands out on a roster of superstars and proves why he is one of the best players in the world. With 6 goals and 3 assists there isn’t much more he could have do

Series Goat: Cam Ward

All we could hear about before the series started was how good Cam Ward was and during the series all we heard was obscure stats about how good he was after losses. But surrendering 17 goals in 4 games we can pretty much say he blew this one. The ridiculous thing is that if he didn’t make some ridiculous saves the penguins could have scored 8 goals a game…..SCARY

Unsung Hero: Maxime “Mad Max” Talbot

Max has been my favorite penguin player because he reminds me of myself when I played. Undersized and works every second of every shift. Max will fight to make every tough play and was rewarded in this series with 3 goals.

Stunned Award: That tanned douche with the hair

No explanation, just observe

P.S.: Me and my dad with the CUP in 92

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Perspective: Bylsma is the difference

As excited as the players and fans may be at this moment up 3-0 on the Canes, there still needs to be a sense of composure. Thirty four years ago the Penguins dropped their semi finals series to the Islanders while having a 3-0 lead. And if there was a team with enough drama in their playoffs to do it again, it’s the Cardiac Canes.

We’re all aware of how they won game 4, with Jokinen's last second goal to tie the series with the Devils 2-2. And how the Canes scored 2 goals in under 2 minutes to beat the Devils in New Jersey to advance to play the Bruins. Not to mention bringing Boston to a game 7 and winning on a Scott Walker goal to upset the "best" team in the East. Yes, there’s drama.

The good news is history is on the Penguins side. Only two teams have in fact overcome a 3-0 deficit in nearly 70 years. But we must not also forget the real reason the Pens are not going to take the night off and why they will in fact continue this incredible play.

Reason: Dan Bylsma

Bylsma’s grounded demeanor has arguably been the best thing for the Penguins all year. You can hear it in his interviews that while they’re pleased they’re up 3-0, they still know they have at least a hard fought 90 minutes of play to get to the Cup Finals for the second year in a row.

“My experience in being up three nothing as a player is we were scared of giving up any life, giving any momentum to the opposition in the other direction even though three nothing seems like a pretty good spot to be in. We want to take every advantage we can to play our game play the right way and keep this momentum in our favor right from the drop of the puck…That’s the way I feel and that’s the way we’ve talked together with our team”

And again,

"We certainly know the situation we're in. We haven't won four games. This is a race to four, and we still have more work to do to get there. ... I understand they've been to the finals last year and didn't get the result they wanted. No, we're not there yet. We still have work to do."

This type of mentality is key. When you listen to the other player interviews the same mindset radiates. Crosby continues to fend off the questions about what they are doing differently as a team play-wise and you hear him say the same thing,

“We really haven’t changed our demeanor a whole lot, but obviously we know what’s at stake here”

Of course the Penguins are excited. Of course each one of them inside is gitty about the fact they could be returning to the finals at a chance to get their revenge against the Red Wings and their Hossa with the “traitor” storyline undergirding the whole thing. There's no denying this. But right now is their focus. Right now is where Bylsma has their heads. They're going to play tonight as if its the first in the series. Have they been dominant? Sure have. But as far as they're concerned, the series is tied 0-0.

I firmly believe this team has learned their lesson about giving any momentum over to the opposition. They did that both with the Flyers and the Captials. They’re not about to do that again, Bylsma wont let them.

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Pens @ Canes - DomiNATION [Game 3 Recap]

What can I say, the Pens did everything right tonight. They played hard and won just about every battle for the puck you could have imagined. Bottom line is, the Pens wanted it more and played much more discipline hockey than their opponents.

I want to quickly highlight my keys to the game from earlier.

• Weathering the Storm: The pressure put on by the Canes can be their biggest foe at times due to the amount of energy expended in doing so. I felt the Penguins exploited that in game 2 by almost allowing the Canes to pressure them and then beating them through the neutral zone. [Same thing happened tonight. Canes got the first goal then played the rest of the game on their heals.]
  
• Offensive Pressure: One of the most notable characteristics of game 2 was the pressure the Penguins actually put on Carolina. They kept the puck in their offensive zone and maintained solid puck possession, particularly on the power play. Sure Ward stopped 35 shots, but he let 6 of them in. I expect the Pens to do more of the same tonight. [More of the same indeed. The TWO-HEADED MONSTER reigned in Raleigh tonight.]
  
• Crashing the Net: Good things happen when you get in front of the net, ask Sid and Geno. But when you can continue to get decent shots and have players rush the net you will inevitably find a juicy rebound or two. [Geno's second goal was just that. He took it to the net and slipped a hot one by Ward. Good things happen.]
  
• Defense: As I said in the last pregame, taking care of the puck in your own zone is key. The Canes got two goals in game 2 due to shotty passes around our own net. The Canes aggressive forecheck will do that, but you need to get the puck out of your own zone, and early. [This is something that doesn't show up on the stat sheet when things go right, but clearly the Pens defensemen took care of the puck tonight.]
  
• Goaltending: MAF must be on point tonight. That first period of game 2 was something he'd like to forget. He performed much better as the game progressed, but ultimately it was the Pens offense that won the game for them. The pressure will come on him early, he needs to perform as he did in game 1. [Fleury stopped 32 of Carolina's 34 shots. Bravo to him, bravo.]
  

Recap:

First Period:

The game started off very intense. Carolina offered an immense amount of pressure to begin with and even getting that usually important first goal from Cullen. That was until Geno decided to tie it up by beating Ward with some typical deke maneuvering, 1-1. After that the game was back and forth on some good chances all around. But again that was until Geurin decided to feed the animal Crosby to make it 2-1 nearing the end of the period. But that wasn't it. Geno once again decided he wasn't about to let up and put another one on the board making it 3-1 to end the period.

Second Period:

Not much to talk about. No goals, good chances. Pens outshot the Canes 15-8, nearly identical to the first period 16-8. Despite the quality goaltending you could just sense the game was in the Penguins favor. Particularly after the dreaded Joe Corvo interview. There was also a random puck evaporation on the Canes first powerplay. Odd.

Third period:

Nearly a carbon copy of the first. The Canes drew first blood to start off with a rebound keeper from Samsonov at the 1:58 mark. That got the Carolina fans back into the game and on their feet. The next goal didn't come until some 10 minutes later, but to their demise it wasn't a Canes goal. A three on two break lead by Geno dropping it back to Fedetenko made it 4-2. From there it was all Penguins. I can honestly say I don't remember seeing another shot on goal from the Canes. I know there was, but I don't remember. The Pens controlled the tempo of the game almost entirely after that goal. Afterward the Canes went on a power play for about a minute that didn't result in anything until Corvo went to the box for tripping Matt Cooke. The Canes tryed pulling Ward for a manual powerplay only to have Craig Adams earn a goal from Jokinen winning it back into his own net, 5-2. The arena was quiet, and Bill Geuring felt like exploiting that to make it 6-2.

GAME OVER. 3-0, end it Tuesday. I'll be there.

Quote of the Night comes from fellow Universe blogger Will Eller:

"The Loudest crowd in the NHL just let the Pens fans start the Cam Ward chant."

Notes:

• Conn Smythe - Geno or Sid...both?
  
• So much for Ward's "eliete" goalie status.
• Joe Corvo is the new spokesman for Paxil.
  
• Cardiac Canes had a heart attack tonight.
• Craig Adams, unsung hero.

Game Highlights.

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3 Zip - Recap, forthcoming.

But for now...Stunned!

Congratulations kid, you're famous. Nice hair.

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Pens @ Canes - Emotions Run High [Game 3 Pregame]

So the Penguins are in the beautiful city of Raleigh today, my home. Waking up this morning I could smell the sweet 72 degree North Carolina air. The sun is shinning, the sky is blue, and for now, the Caniacs are quiet, basking in anticipation for the showdown tonight. Emotions will run high.

The Pens are up 2-0 and this game is the proverbial "must win" for the Canes. Only two teams have ever come back to win from being down 3-0 in a playoff series (74-75 Islanders and 41-42 Mapleleafs). So despite the "Cardiac Canes" title, the odds would be against them.

Living in Raleigh has given me a chance to go and see a few games this year. The atmosphere is intense, I'll second that. But the two games I went to see the Pens play, the place was absolutely flooded with Penguin fans. I'd say the ratio was probably 5-1, and that's not an overstatement. Being tonight's game is not just a playoff game but the Eastern Conference Finals. I'm sure we will see the same ratio of Pens fans tonight.

The first time the Pens played in Raleigh this year on December 4th was Paul Maurice's first game back as the head coach of the Hurricanes. The Penguins won 5-2. The last time the Penguins visited on April 4th they lost 3-2 in OT and the Canes actually clinched their playoff birth with the win. Now the Penguins arrive at the RBC with momentum and emotion on their side. A win in Raleigh could nearly seal the deal, either today or Tuesday. But that doesn't mean the Pens are going to take this team lightly. While they are pleased to be up 2-0, Coach Bylsma and the guys are not planning on playing that means anything.

The Penguins have been here before, they have played in the oppositions house and won. Matter of fact the previous two series were won on the road. Now they look to extend this lead to 3-0 tonight and make it nearly impossible for the Canes to have any chance.

My Keys to the Penguins Success:

• Weathering the Storm: The pressure put on by the Canes can be their biggest foe at times due to the amount of energy expended in doing so. I felt the Penguins exploited that in game 2 by almost allowing the Canes to pressure them and then beating them through the neutral zone.
  
• Offensive Pressure: One of the most notable characteristics of game 2 was the pressure the Penguins actually put on Carolina. They kept the puck in their offensive zone and maintained solid puck possession, particularly on the power play. Sure Ward stopped 35 shots, but he let 6 of them in. I expect the Pens to do more of the same tonight.
  
• Crashing the Net: Good things happen when you get in front of the net, ask Sid and Geno. But when you can continue to get decent shots and have players rush the net you will inevitibly find a juicy rebound or two.
• Defense: As I said in the last pregame, taking care of the puck in your own zone is key. The Canes got two goals in game 2 due to shotty passes around our own net. The Canes aggressive forecheck will do that, but you need to get the puck out of your own zone, and early.
  
• Goaltending: MAF must be on point tonight. That first period of game 2 was something he'd like to forget. He performed much better as the game progressed, but ultimately it was the Pens offense that won the game for them. The pressure will come on him early, he needs to perform as he did in game 1.
  

I'd like to see the Penguins come out strong early but that doesn't mean offensively. Sure you want to get that first goal, but the Canes are at home and are going to come out full boat in front of their fans. The Penguins need to be strong defensively and maintain composure through the first five minutes or so. That will rely heavily on Gonchar, Gill, Scuderi, and LetangThen as the game settles in a little they should strike hard. I'd rather not see them get into a battle of goal for goal like last game. Sure they eventually won, but these are games in which the Hurricanes seem to thrive in.

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PENS VS. CANES - Game 2 - Who's House? Geno's House!

[GENO TAKES THE BANNER]

Pens are now up 2-0. This was to be expected seeing as they were on their home ice to begin with. But the Hurricanes are not a team to be taken lightly. I'm sure they expected to steal one on the road...Sid and Geno had none of it.


RECAP:

The Pens started off quite well with Crosby scoring the first goal just under 2 minutes into the game. That ignited the team and crowd, but only for a little over a minute, then Fleury let LaRose have a freebie. Then at the 8:15 mark in the first Malkin gets on the board with a goal of his own. Things were looking real well for the Pens with their top two players getting on the score sheet early. But again that fire was put out by Carolina as they scored on a Jussi Jokinen goal just 35 seconds later. Then at the 12:10 mark Seidenberg launches one past Fleury to make it 3-2 at the end of the first. At that point I just felt both teams were playing well offensively and neither was doing very much on the defensive end; particularly the goaltending.

Heading into the second period we saw a much better defensive effort all the way around. But it was all Pittsburgh in the offensively out shooting the Canes 16-6. The only goal of the period was Max Talbot's breakaway slapper past Ward, assisted by Crosby and Geno. At that point it looked like it was going to be a barn burner. That is until Chris Kunitz ended his 19 game draught and scored with just 7 seconds to go giving the Pens a 4-3 lead heading into the 3rd.

I was pretty confident the Canes were going to strike first in the 3rd and I wasn't made a liar. Eves put one past Fleury to ties things up just under 3 minutes into the period. But that was right before the "Geno Show" began. At the 8:50 mark Malkin scored on a juicy rebound in front of the net to give the lead back to the Penguins. At this time Pens fans including myself were quite excited, though cautious seeing how this game was going with the Canes answering every goal we scored within 3 minutes at the most. But then Geno decided it was time to show why in fact he won the scoring title. He was a beast all over the ice and simply created a many scoring chances. None better than his hat-trick backhander over the left shoulder of Ward. This had to be the best goals I can recall seeing in the playoffs in a while. That was the dagger. Carolina had no choice but to pull Ward with under 2 mintues to try and get a goal, to get something started. To their dismay the Pens kept up the pressure and didn't let up. Tyler Kennedy was able to score an empty netter to put the game out of reach and allow the Pens to win 7-4 taking a 2-0 lead in the ECF series.

:: Here is Malkin's Hat-Trick Goal ::

NOTES:

• The TWO-HEADED MONSTER was in full effect. They were responsible for 6 of the 7 goals scored in the game. Crosby did what we needed and had 4 SOG, one making it in. Geno had 8, three of which made it through.
  
• Hats off to the defense of the Pens for doing just what Bylsma wanted them to do, save the first period. They took care of the puck when Carolina kept the backchecking up. They won many of the scrubs along the walls. They even blocked 11 shots.
• Pens won the faceoff battle 38-33 which is very impressive considering the last series versus Washington.
• Bravo to Satan for his stellar fight at the end. I seen at least 3 punches landed.
  

ANALYSIS:

Heading to Raleigh on Saturday the Penguins need to keep their minds fixed on what made them successful. The most notable item is the amount of chances they had as opposed to last game (42 to 31). As I said here, Ward will have something to say about this, but the more chances the better. And the better chances the better. And of the 42 total SOG many of them were quality chances. I also felt the Pens had more grit and played with that urgency, something I mentioned in the pregame. Another worthy function was the way the Pens adjusted to the pressure of the Canes. Essentially they allowed the Canes to maneuver their pressure then attack when necessary. It was clear that the Pens would allow the Canes to get tired with the amount of effort they put in, then capitalized on it; and at the right time. I expect to see more of this play heading into the game on Saturday. I haven't listened to the post game interviews yet (I will tomorrow), I'll bet you'll hear the Pens speak highly of each others efforts [especially Geno], but note they will not make any changes in their overall scheme. Other than Fleury tightening up the goals everything should remain the same.

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PENS VS. CANES - Game 2 - Pre Game Thoughts

So here we are just hours away from Game 2. I'm actually surprised at the amount of controversy that has followed game 1; I had more respect for the Caniacs out there. All I've heard about from the other sources (blogs, etc) is how bad the officiating was and why they think Matt Cooke should be [have been] suspended for his knee to knee collision with Cole. Some have even gone as far as to criticize Hall Gill for not being able to take a hit from Cole. Like I said, this perplexes me as I thought the Canes writers had more class than that.

Nevertheless.

Sometimes you're perspective of a game can change a few hours or even days after you watch it. You read and hear peoples opinions and your mind can be altered. But for me, despite all of the rants and criticism I've read, I haven't changed my position. I felt the Penguins overall play was pretty bad and inconsistent. Aside from the two goals by Boucher and Geno ultimately the Pens looked pretty flat. Satan's goal was more or less a matter of luck. Sure it was a great deke, but the goal wasn't created by solid play in any sense.

As far as the Canes, they actually played a fairly well game. Much of what has gotten them this far is what they've shown us. They play very solid defense and I was truly impressed by their penalty kill. Their really spread the ice well and seem to get into position at the right time. They fought well against the boards and really pressured the forecheck. Staal, Whitney and Jokinen provided some great opportunities, particularly at the end of the game when every Penguin fan's heart was pumping out of their chest, inlcuding myself. Hence the Cardiac Canes.

So whats do we make of this? Well, I've heard the Canes fans say they're pretty confident going into game two. While I think there is some truth to that in how they played in game 1, I don't think its a very strong position. In my opinion the Pens played one of their worst of the playoffs, yet still won. They won at the hands of the role players role players, Satan and Boucher. More than likely they will not score again in the rest of the playoffs. Also, you saw nearly nothing from the "worlds best hockey player." Crosby was as ineffective last game as Sykora was the later half of the season. Should he produce the way he has all playoffs long the outlook looks very grim for the Canes. And with Cole and Ruutu possibly being out, it doesn't look good for Carolina.

Pens Keys to Game 2:

• Execution: We've heard that word more times in the past two days from Crosby and the rest of the organization that its got to be ingrained in our skulls. But they're right. The Penguins played this game like they did every game in December. They looked flat, they played "soff." Their timing was off for the most part (passing, shooting). What they need to go back to is exectuting more with the chances they're given. Ward will have something to say about this, but the more chances the better. And the better chances the better.
• Defense: I do feel our defense played well I just felt they made some untimely turnovers which created some chances. This perhaps can more or less be a subset of key #1 seeing as really the Pens need to take care of the puck in the neutral zone and behind their own net.
  
• Crosby: As I said above, Sid had very little impact on this game. Despite his 21 minutes of play Crosby only had 2 shots on goal, and those came in the 3rd period (one that never had a chance). Should Sid show up and get 4+ shots on goal he's been averaging the Pens will have much better production from everyone.
• Grit and Urgency: One thing Bylsma mentioned as an adjustment was winning scrubs along the boards. That physicality and mentality can be changed by their motivation. To which I say the Pens need more grit, more urgency. When you look at the last two series you seen a "willingness" the guys just didn't seem to have Monday.
  

As a Pens fan my take from Game 1 can be summed up by the phrase, "underachievement," but again, we still won. And looking forward to game 2? Well, listening to Bylsma talk about what changes are needed to be successful and hearing Crosby confirm what we all know [about his play], I'm confident the Pens will turn it up a notch and show the Canes why they in fact made it to the Conference Finals.

Our time is now...

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PENS VS. CANES - Game 1 - Post Game Thoughts

Just as the picture suggests, Fleury was in the eye of the hurricane and weathered the storm. He was the first star in the minds and hearts of all Pens fans. No offense to Boucher or even Geno. But had not Fleury come up big, this game could very well have been out of reach, and early.

[Game 1 - Finesse vs. Pressure]

Recap:

This game began with the Penguins appearing quite flat. For the first 5 or so minutes of the game was all Canes, but that's not really saying much. The Pens came out and did nearly nothing on their two power plays. Quite honestly there wasn't that sense of urgency you witnessed in the first two series for the Penguins. And being the conference finals that wasn't a good sign.

Though at the very second in which the Penguins killed off a Satan penalty, Miro himself caught a breakaway. Looking 10 years younger he beat Cam Ward like a rented mule with a backhand off a deke. That goal by Satan did in fact change the whole landscape of the game. Reason being, just over a minute later after some decent forechecking from the Penguins Geno slipped a hot one past Ward to bring the score up to 2-0. After this the Penguins controlled the remaining minutes of the 1st period.

The 2nd period didn't have a whole lot of action on either side of the ice. Ward did rob Guerin about half way through the period. The Pens outshot Carolina 12-6 but it was LaRose who tallied the first goal for the Canes.

The third period did have some action to it toward the end. Phillipe Boucher scored a powerplay goal assisted by Crosby and Malkin which proved to be the decisive game winner. In typical fashion the "Cardiac Canes" did their thing toward the end and scored late on a 6 on 4 to pull within one goal with 1:26 remaining. Though it is my contention that goal should have not come to fruition with Eric Staal sliding Fleury's stick away, a clear penalty. Fleury would get his revenge though stopping Staal on a late chance to keep the score 3-2 and head into victory.

Notes:

• The game seemed to be a duel between Fleury and Ward. Both came up with some very timely saves and robbed the opposing team several times.
  
• Crosby was held to no shots in the first 2 periods and seemed a little out of sync.
  
• Carolina's PK was worthy enough to mention. Though I felt the Pens didn't execute well on the first 2, the Canes could have very well been the reason coming with a ton of pressure.
• Gonchar played 21 minutes but I felt looked a little slow which resulted in some untimely turnovers.
  
• Satan has been a delight in this post season. Very much impressed with his play. I wish Sykora would not have slumped, but I'm happy Miro is stepping up at the right time.
• Ruutu and Cole seemed to have sustained injuries. Not sure of the severity at this point.
  
• The knee to knee from Cooke and Cole didn't seem intentional. But that's not my call.
• I have NO idea why people are questioning Cole's interference call. What? A big man can be knocked off balance?
  
• Bottom line, a win is a win. Need 7 more.
  

Analysis:

The Penguins need to come out much more sharper on Thursday and take control of the game early. The two quick goals is what it all about but they can't sit back and feed off of them. They must act with a sense of urgency. The game could have been decided earlier if they got that 3rd goal sooner, before Carolina even scored. If I were Bylsma I wouldn't be very excited about this win. Sure they won but it wasn't their best performance. Crosby needs to be more involved and in my opinion should start on the ice at faceoff to try and create something early; get the Canes on their heals right off the bat.

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Penguins / Canes Predictions

ESPN.com...

This one is going to be a ton of fun to watch; but, in the end, the Canes don't have an adequate answer for Crosby and Malkin. As long as Fleury doesn't completely lose his mind, the Pens should be able to dictate how things go in this one. Penguins in six. [Burnside]

So, in the end, I think it does come down to Crosby and Malkin. If they have their A-game, the Penguins move on. If they don't, and the Hurricanes are able to neutralize them, it will be Carolina against the Red Wings in a rematch of 2002. I'll take No. 87 and No. 71. Penguins in seven for a rematch of last season's Stanley Cup finals. [Bucci]

The National Sports Review...

The Penguins do need goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, who has been erratic, to step up his game. Carolina’s Carm Ward, who never has lost a playoff series (6-0), has outplayed Fleury in the playoffs...Another concern for the Penguins could be the health of defenseman Sergei Gonchar, who returned to the lineup in Game Seven against the Capitals after missing a two games following a knee-to-knee collision with Ovechkin....Still, we see the Penguins advancing in six games and facing the Red Wings in a rematch of last year’s Finals.

Puck Daddy...

With 12 goals and nine assists -- his 21 points lead all scorers in the playoffs -- Crosby has vanquished Mike Richards, outplayed Alex Ovechkin and is now on a mission to win his first Stanley Cup. He's elevated and modulated his game, playing gritty hockey in front of the net. Watching the Penguins, you get the sense that Crosby's not going to allow them to lose. And that takes a special player. The Hurricanes are going to have to figure out a way to neutralize him. And then after they do that, all they have to worry about is Malkin ...

... so the prediction here is Penguins in six. We've been impressed throughout the postseason with the Hurricanes, and would never count them out of this series. Not for a minute. But the Penguins' poise in the semifinals was impressive. Fleury's play, outside of a few hiccups, has been championship quality. And their depth can match that of the Hurricanes. It won't be easy, and we'll likely have a few more "Cardiac 'Canes" moments. But when it's over, the Penguins are going to play for the Stanley Cup for the second straight season.

Sportsnet.ca...

For Pittsburgh to win: Crosby has been on a mission after being left off the ballot for the Hart Trophy this season to prove he is still the best player in the NHL. So far, so good. But even when Crosby is flying, the Penguins need Malkin to contribute. He slipped a bit early in the second round and then seemed to find his second wind. He must continue to be a threat every game.

For Carolina to win: Ward already has one Conn Smythe Trophy under his belt and if the Hurricanes are to pull off an upset in this round, he'll need to give an even better performance against Pittsburgh than he did against Edmonton in the final two years ago. Also, Staal will need to try to match Crosby point for point. Series prediction: Penguins in five.

From the Rink...

The Penguins are having a bit of an interesting trip through the first three rounds of the playoffs, and really haven't yet met up with a team with a big, bruising defence. That works well for Sidney Crosby, who we've seen hunting around the goal a lot more than ever before and who got the better of Mike Green and the Caps blueline eight times in Round 2. (In his first 25 career playoff games, Crosby had nine goals; in 13 games so far this season, he's already got 12. We're seeing a more goal-hungry Sid than ever before.) Eric Staal and Cam Ward are driving the 'Canes success to a large degree, and if they keep it up, Carolina has a shot (especially if Sergei Gonchar's not at top speed) but I worry about the matchups they'll get with Crosby and Malkin on the ice and Joni Pitkanen and Joe Corvo both playing more than 25 minutes a game (as they did against Boston). Penguins in 6.

Sports Central...

I really find this series hard to predict. Pittsburgh's struggles on defense could mean trouble for them in this series, but their offense has been equally impressive. While Carolina may be viewed as an underdog in this series, we have already learned it is foolish to count them out of any series. In order for Carolina to win, they will need Cam Ward to continue his dominant form and they will need to continue their aggressive play on offense. If Cam Ward is on his game, it could be hard for Pittsburgh to win. Where Pittsburgh may prosper in this series, unlike Boston and New Jersey, is the fact that they have recent experience. The team lost in the Stanley Cup Finals last year and they desperately want to get back. Pittsburgh won't take Carolina lightly, which should make for intense series. Pick: Pittsburgh in 7.

On Frozen Pond (Miami Herald)...

Should have another good one tonight as the upset-minded Hurricanes go into Pittsburgh with little fear. Should be a terrific series. I hope they have Versus in Bloomington, Ind. I think they should, but one never knows.

Prediction time kids. Who do you like in these conference finals? As I've said a few times before, I'm going with a Detroit-Pitt rematch for the Cup. George's Picks -- West: DET in 6; East: PIT in 7

Playoff Beard.com...

Sometimes it takes a monumental loss for a club to learn what it really takes to win the Cup. The Penguins know what is at stake. For that matter, so do the Hurricanes as former Stanley Cup Champions. However I think it is the Penguins turn, and Sidney Crosby will continue to find a way to will his team to the Finals. Playoff Beard Prediction: Pittsburgh Penguins in 6 games.

And from the Blogs....

Pittsburgh Puck Talk...

I said before the playoffs that there’s no team that the Penguins can’t beat four times in seven chances. I still feel that’s the case. I’m expecting Fleury to have a solid series. He coming off a confidence-boosting performance in game seven of the second round and has the chance to start this series on home ice. He played three games against Carolina this season and posted a 2.00 GAA and .937 SV%. Also, it doesn’t appear that Crosby and Malkin are going to slow down any time soon. All bodes well for the Pens. All the Penguins need to do is win at home. It’s easier ssaid than done, but they can get it done and possibly even steal one in Carolina. Penguins in six.

Sens Chirp...

My instinct is telling me the Pittsburgh Penguins will be too much for the Hurricanes to handle. My instinct has also been so frequently wrong in these playoffs that its tempting to go against it here but I cant. Crosby is on a mission right now and I think the Cardiac Canes will come up just short in their Cinderella run. Penguins in 7.

Duelings Couches...

But I think Carolina's streak of opponents choking has come to an end. Pittsburgh is not a choking team. They're experienced, physical, smart, and explosive. They played in the toughest division in the League, and still managed to get 99 points. If they can beat Washington, they can handle Carolina. Penguins in 6.

Canadian Wild Blog...

The Penguins have the advantage over the Canes in every category accept Carolina's cluth performers. If the Penguins can't end the series early Cam Ward won't let the Penguins win a Game 7. Pittsburgh is on a mission after the coaching change and the team to beat this year. Pittsburgh in 4.

The Ryan Coke Experience...

The key to Pittsburgh though will be Sergei Gonchar. If he’s playing, their powerplay will be able to click. If he’s too injured to play, the team will suffer with the man advantage, and make it that more difficult to win. Regardless, the Pens have too much firepower, and the Hurricanes will start to slow up as fatigue sets in the longer the round goes. My prediction: Pittsburgh in 6.

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5 Reasons The Pens Win in 5.

Let me start off by saying I'm a Penguin fan living in Canes Country. As such I really feel I have a pretty good handle on the what/who/when/how of the Canes. Now if you're a Canes fan you may be wondering to yourself, "Romano, you know how well the Canes have been playing and how they have constantly beat the odds in classic dramatic fashion, why do you have them only winning one game? Oh that's right, you're a Pens fan." Yes, I'm bias. But I think even if I weren't I would still pick the Penguins in 5 (maybe 6). I have the utmost respect for the Canes. I think they are an extremely good team with grit and determination. They just find ways to win games, including those against some great hockey teams. Truthfully, I told colleagues that the Canes would win the Bruins series. Then why will the series end in 5?

Reason #5: "Disco" Dan Bylsma

One of the first things I heard Bylsma say on February 15th was that he thought the Penguins had enough offensive firepower and the ability out skate the opponents, that all he was planning on doing was to exploit that; and that's just what he has done. Bylsma has been the anchor to this teams success. He's been the most grounded in the toughest of times and always keeps a strong composure on his guys which allows them to have a great deal of trust in their coach. Gaining the respect of your players is perhaps the most important thing a coach can do, and he has this team in great spirits.

Reason #4: Offensive and Defensive Defense

The Penguins defense have the most blocked shot of any team in the playoffs at the moment. Eaton, Gill, and Scuderi are playing like All Stars at the moment with the way they have been keeping clean shots from getting through. Orpik as well has done a great job at keeping guys out of the slot. And Gonchar and Letang have utilized their offensive prowess to get timely goals.

Reason #3: Forecheck

Not only are the Penguins playing quality defense, one thing their offense is doing real well in the playoffs is forechecking. With the exception of the 2nd period in Game 6 vs Washington the Penguins have done an excellent job at keeping the puck out of their own zone and in the opponents. The pressure being put on by guys like Kunitz, Staal, Fedetenko, Talbot, Dupuis and Kennedy makes for a difficult time the opposing teams to creating chances. As good as Cam Ward is, I'm not sure he can sustain the pressure.

Reason #2: Evgeni Malkin

Malkin hasn't been in the spotlight as much as he has during the regular season, but that doesn't mean you count him out. He still has 19 points in the playoffs and has made some timely plays. The thing about Malkin is his ability to create his own plays. He flourishes when he takes it to the net and evades defenders to open up the slot for more chances. The Canes will have a difficult time defending both Geno and Sid (which I can imagine Bylsma showing more often in this series).

Reason #1: Sidney Crosby

Lately Crosby has been playing with that undying willpower we have not seen since Mario was on the ice. As of now he's on place for breaking the Penguins all-time record for playoff goals at 19 currently held by Kevin Stevens. I mean let's be honest, he's been playing like an animal. It's very rare that you see a guy who can literally take over a game on his own. I do think Ovechkin has the ability to change a game with his ability to score, but rarely do you see a guy like Crosby who can impact a game on every level and make everyone around him better. We all know he had the first 4 of 5 goals the Penguins put up against the Capitals. And in game 7 he put on a performance for the ages. I do believe Carolina can somewhat match up to the Penguins in each of every position aside from Crosby. But that's just it, they don't have Crosby. He's the difference maker.

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Let It Burn - Round 3!

Since I'm pretty darn superstitous I'm going to continue to go with what has worked so far. Therefore just as I did in the first two rounds, so I'll do here. I said before I'll have some keys to winning and a more thorough post devoted to analysis, but for now I will let you rest with this.

LET IT BURN IN RALEIGH!

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Pens / Canes - 2009 Eastern Conference Finals

So the Canes have pulled it off. (Yes, I get to go to a Pens game in Raleigh!) They sent the Boston Bruins packing. Marc Savard and company will be holding a charity golf event shortly. The Raleigh residents are already reacting. They’re having visions of 2006. They want the Cup again. They believe they have what it takes. That is, until they play the Penguins...

The Canes are winning most of their games by grit, toughness and utter determination. Cam Ward is living up to his Conn Smyth ways by carrying his team thus far. And that’s not good news for the Penguins.

According to Brian Metzer,

If my quick calculations are correct, Ward has posted a 9-2-1 record in 12 games against the Penguins, while posting a 2.56 GAA and a .910 save percentage. He just seems to play lights out in most games against the Penguins...when you combine that the methodical game that the Hurricanes play, you have a formula for success.

But when you consider what and how the Penguins have been winning games, these statistics may not matter. Crosby and Malkin have combined for 40 points in this post season and are leading the Penguins on an offensive tear. Not to mention the, shall I say, lock-down defense the Penguins are displaying as of late?

All that aside this series will indubitably be a barn burner. The Penguins are coming off 13 hard fought games facing the leagues most powerful offenses, including the games most deadly shooter. The Canes are coming off of 14 hard fought games which were lathered in drama. The difference, the Pens were picked to win, the Canes were not. But that doesn't mean anything now. Now these two teams have to face each other and see if they can overcome the media. Staal vs. Staal we’ll hear and read about.

There are actually some great similarities between these teams this season. Each had times in which they struggled and both spent a good deal of the season outside of the playoff hunt. That is until management stepped in and replaced their coaches and added some key parts to bolster their offenses.

Carolina added 2006 Stanley Cup coach Paul Maurice and brought back Eric Cole from the Oilers. They also added Jussi Jokinen from the Bolts who has been nearly the best pre-trade-deadline acquisition in the league.

The Penguins fired head coach Michel Therrien and called up WBS coach Dan Bylsma. They also added some veteran leadership in acquiring Bill Guerin for just about a cup of coffee. Likewise they traded Ryan Whitney away to the late Anaheim Ducks and added a much needed power forward in Chris Kunitz.

Since mid February both of these teams have been on a tear. Both have impressive records in their last 20 or so games that have carried them over into the post season; hence, each reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.

Here is the schedule:

1 Monday, May 18, 7:30pm ET on TSN Hurricanes at Penguins
2 Thursday, May 21, 7:30pm ET on TSN Hurricanes at Penguins
3 Saturday, May 23, 7:30pm ET Penguins at Hurricanes
4 Tuesday, May 26, 7:30pm ET Penguins at Hurricanes
*5 Friday, May 29, 7:30pm ET Hurricanes at Penguins
*6 Sunday, May 31, 7:30pm ET Penguins at Hurricanes
*7 Tuesday, June 2, 7:30pm ET Hurricanes at Penguins

*if necessary

I most certainly will enjoy this. Being a Pens fan in Raleigh will certainly bode for numerous conversations among my countrymen. I will post some keys-to-winning at another point, more than likely over the weekend. But for now I bid you adieu.

Good night and good luck.

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