Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Musings on Marion ... and other thoughts before game 3
Marion Hossa has 35 shots on goal after 6 playoff games this year.
Only 2 of those have counted for goals.
For those counting (attention Ray Shero), that's 5.7%.
Now, this isn't to bash Hossa, who is a player this writer likes a great deal. Despite only scoring twice in the Penguins current 6 game playoff winning streak, he's had an impact on the ice. The Senators paid a lot of attention to him in the opening round, and the Rangers are now too -- and for good reason. He's had a ton of scoring chances and, despite only scoring 2 goals, is averaging a point-a-game in the post-season so far. He's also been very, VERY good defensively -- better than most wingers.
But Marian Hossa gets paid to score goals. Optimists will tell you that if he continues to get that many chances, they'll start going in for him. Maybe. But I'll tell you that if he doesn't start putting the puck in the net more, Shero might very well let him walk this summer.
This isn't because Hossa wouldn't still be a valuable player. It's becasue the age of the salary cap in the NHL makes it difficult to pay someone 7 million or more a season (which is what Hossa probably will command this summer) unless you're going to be a true impact player. With all the other salary demands on the Penguins this off-seasons (Malone's free agency, the need to give Malkin a new, big-money contract, etc.) , Hossa has to be a 40+ goal man for the Penguins to justify trying to fit him in with everyone else at that figure. Checking is tighter in the playoffs, so Hossa isn't going to score at quite the same rate he usually checks in at during the regular season, but he has to do more than he has. So far, he simply hasn't shown the same ability to cash in on his chances that he has demonstrated in the past. He had glorious chances in game 2. Jarkko Ruutu has as many goals as Hossa does in the playoffs so far, and on about 1/3 of the number of shots. Think of how the Penguins could be rolling along if Hossa were capitalizing.
Another guy the Penguins need to get going a little bit in game 3 tonight is Ryan Malone. Short of some nice moves to give the puck to Malkin on the play which led to Sykora's 4th goal in game 1, he's been quiet. The Penguins need to generate havoc in front of Lundqvist, especially on the road, and Malone needs to be active there in game 3.
The Penguins can take a stranglehold on the series if they win tonight. The Rangers are going to be revved up, but if the Penguins stick with their game, match New York's intensity, and stay disciplined, they have as good a chance as any to win tonight and then look to sweep their 2nd straight series Thursday. And all that assumes they don't get a breakthrough performance from Crosby or Malkin, which hasn't happened in the playoffs yet, but might occur any time.
Interesting stats to ponder going into game 3:
1) Of the 20 teams who have opened up the Stanley Cup Playoffs by winning their first 6 games, 18 of them have gone on to the Cup Finals, and 10 of those 18 have won the Silver Chalice.
2) Of the 285 teams who have faced a 2-0 series deficit in the playoffs, only 37 have come back to win the series. That's 12.9% for those counting, including the 1991 Penguins squad who, following 2 road losses to start the series, lived up to Kevin Stevens' guarantee and came back to beat the Boston Bruins in the Wales Conference Finals.
Interesting quotes to ponder going into game 3:
1) Jaromir Jagr, after game 2: "I don't think it was them. I thought it was us that made them look that good."
2) Henrik Lundqvist, also after game 2: "I think they looked a little bit better than they really are today. We know we can put more pressure on them. We're going to do that in New York and we're going to get the win."
Gary Roberts will probably be a game time decision again tonight. By the way, I think it says a lot about the character and maturity of the Penguins team that it's done so well thusfar in the post-season this year without veterans and cup winners Gary Roberts and Darryl Sydor really being the lineup for any meaningful stretch. I also think it makes it perhaps more likely that neither will be with the team again next season.
Game 3 Recap tomorrow.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Game 2 Recap: Penguins - 2, Rangers - 0
Another game ... another win.
This time the Penguins beat the Rangers at what most observers feel is "their game" -- a defensive gem, which in this instance resulted in a 2-0 shutout and a 2-0 series lead for the Penguins going into game #3 at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday night.
The Penguins were great in their zone all night. They didn't give up many quality scoring chances and Marc-Andre Fleury closed the door on the ones that did come through -- including a great stop on Jaromir Jagr in the 2nd period as he broke down the slot alone. The Penguins don't get enough credit for their defensive play. They won a number of close games this season, and finished 3rd in the East in goals against average per game.
Their penalty killing also continued it's strong run of late, knocking off all 6 Ranger power plays, including 4 minutes worth in the last 6 minutes of the 3rd period when New York failed to get off a single shot on goal, making Jordan Staal's 2nd period power play marker stand up as the game-winner. The Penguins have scored on the power play in every playoff game this post-season so far.
There was an interesting scrum at the end of the game, which started off with Avery, Fleury and Todd Gill. Fleury said Avery was hacking at the back of his legs (although all the video I saw of the incident didn't capture that), which caused him to lift his stick and whack Avery either in the backside or you-know-where, just like what he did to Ottawa Senators winger Martin Lapointe in the first round. Anyway, Avery took offense to that and retaliated by spearing Fleury in the chest. Gill immediately went aver Avery aggressively, first pushing him, then dropping his gloves and going after him. By then, the game was over and eveyrone on the ice joined the scrum. Big George Laraque's presence on the ice probably kept the Rangers shenanigans to a minimum, and Penguins coach Michel Terrein deserves credit for putting him out on the ice in that situation. No penalties were handed out.
At first, I was worried in the aftermath of the Penguins win and series lead that the Rangers would use Fleury's stickwork on Avery as a rallying point, since they need something to try and get the momentum back going into game 3. However, I didn't hear anything inflammatory about that incident from the Rangers side in the post-game or this morning.
The Penguins are in a good position going to New York, but it's important they come out of the gate in game 3 with a lot of intensity. The Rangers are going to be fired up and will have energy because of their home crowd. If the Penguins can match that desire early on, and perhaps even get an early goal or two, the Rangers could start pressing and get out of their game. If the Penguins prevail in the next game, they'll have a stranglehold on the series. If the Rangers do, they'll be right back in it, since most series' that aren't going to end in a sweep are 2-1 after 3 games anyway.
Regardless, the Penguins excellent play in the series so far has given them the chance to go to Madison Square Garden and, if nothing else, try to get a split, which would give them a very favorable 3-1 series lead coming back home for game 5. They will have to overcome some poor play in New York so far this season, but with them playing as well as they are now, and playing as confidently as they are at the present time, I don't believe there is any significance to their 0-3-1 record in The Garden earlier this year. To a man, I'm sure the Penguins have every reason to think they can go to New York and not only win game 3 but sweep their second straight series if they stick to their game plan and at least match the Rangers intensity.
More pre-game-3 notes tomorrow, including some thoughts on Marion Hossa.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Game 1 Recap: Penguins Win 5-4
Well, if that wasn't at least an entertaining (and stressful) way to start a series, I don't know what is.
Just when the Rangers thought they had it in the bag, they remembered they were playing the most explosive team in the league -- just in time for Crosby's shot to go off Malkin's leg for the game winner on a power play with 1:41 left in the game, caping a comeback from a 3-0 deficit and giving them a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The Penguins hadn't come back from a 3-goal deficit to win a game all year. Last night, they showed a national audience much of the character they have shown all season.
The reality is that both teams played a sloppy game, befitting teams who had 7 and 9 days rest, respectively. The energy was there, but the attention to detail was not. Both teams turned the puck over with regularity and failed to play their systems. Expect a better-played game Sunday afternoon in game 2.
Not surprisingly, the NY media rose up this morning critical of the penalty call against Martin Straka late in the 3rd, which led to the winning goal. One has to go no further than the NY Daily News for this conspiracy theory:
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/hockey/rangers/2008/04/25/2008-04-25_sidney_crosby_diving_for_penalty.html
As most know, prior to the series, Rangers coach Tom Renney publicly expressed concerns about Crosby diving. After the game, several Ranger players, including Brendan Shanahan and the perpetrator, Straka, as well as Renney, publicly expressed alleged that Crosby dove on the play at-issue. The guys in the striped shirts didn't see it that way, however, and those who watch hockey around here regularly know enough to realize that Crosby earns his penalties and was legitimately interfered with by Straka, justifying the call. The Penguins power play, previously 0-4 in the game, converted at just the right time.
Everyone on the Penguins squad deserves credit for their resiliency, but Jarkko Ruutu deserves it a little more than most. He stayed in the face of the Ranger players after the Penguins fell in a 3-0 hole, and got the 1st goal to get them rolling, to boot. After that, it was all about quick-burst scoring. Dupuis scored 14 seconds later. Then, early in the 3rd, Hossa and Sykora scored 20 or so seconds apart to give us the 4-3 lead.
Neither Fleury or Lundqvist played well overall. Lundqvist was sharp in the first period, but like Fleury, he struggled as the game went on. The goal Fleury let up to Avery early in the 2nd period to make it 3-0 New York, in particular, was a bad one -- one he needs to stop, and had stopped throughout the first round. Both goalies had 2 pucks go behind them which deflected off players or skates.
The Rangers had a chance to steal the opening game on the road and put themselves in a position going into game 2 where, even if they didn't win, they'd take the split and the home-ice advantage that would come with it thereafter in the series. As it is, the Penguins continue to maintain momentum and confidence, all with knowing that they need to (and probably will) play much better in game 2. That said, if the Rangers bounce back strong on Sunday and gain the split anyway, they are in the exact same position, despite blowing the big lead in game 1. For that reason, if the Penguins want to extract the full benefit from their stirring victory in the series opener, it's necessary that they prevail in the next game and go up 2-0 heading into a building they've struggled in this season for game 3.
The author's 3 stars of game 1:
3) Scott Gomez
2) Pascal Dupuis
1) Sidney Crosby
Just when the Rangers thought they had it in the bag, they remembered they were playing the most explosive team in the league -- just in time for Crosby's shot to go off Malkin's leg for the game winner on a power play with 1:41 left in the game, caping a comeback from a 3-0 deficit and giving them a 1-0 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The Penguins hadn't come back from a 3-goal deficit to win a game all year. Last night, they showed a national audience much of the character they have shown all season.
The reality is that both teams played a sloppy game, befitting teams who had 7 and 9 days rest, respectively. The energy was there, but the attention to detail was not. Both teams turned the puck over with regularity and failed to play their systems. Expect a better-played game Sunday afternoon in game 2.
Not surprisingly, the NY media rose up this morning critical of the penalty call against Martin Straka late in the 3rd, which led to the winning goal. One has to go no further than the NY Daily News for this conspiracy theory:
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/hockey/rangers/2008/04/25/2008-04-25_sidney_crosby_diving_for_penalty.html
As most know, prior to the series, Rangers coach Tom Renney publicly expressed concerns about Crosby diving. After the game, several Ranger players, including Brendan Shanahan and the perpetrator, Straka, as well as Renney, publicly expressed alleged that Crosby dove on the play at-issue. The guys in the striped shirts didn't see it that way, however, and those who watch hockey around here regularly know enough to realize that Crosby earns his penalties and was legitimately interfered with by Straka, justifying the call. The Penguins power play, previously 0-4 in the game, converted at just the right time.
Everyone on the Penguins squad deserves credit for their resiliency, but Jarkko Ruutu deserves it a little more than most. He stayed in the face of the Ranger players after the Penguins fell in a 3-0 hole, and got the 1st goal to get them rolling, to boot. After that, it was all about quick-burst scoring. Dupuis scored 14 seconds later. Then, early in the 3rd, Hossa and Sykora scored 20 or so seconds apart to give us the 4-3 lead.
Neither Fleury or Lundqvist played well overall. Lundqvist was sharp in the first period, but like Fleury, he struggled as the game went on. The goal Fleury let up to Avery early in the 2nd period to make it 3-0 New York, in particular, was a bad one -- one he needs to stop, and had stopped throughout the first round. Both goalies had 2 pucks go behind them which deflected off players or skates.
The Rangers had a chance to steal the opening game on the road and put themselves in a position going into game 2 where, even if they didn't win, they'd take the split and the home-ice advantage that would come with it thereafter in the series. As it is, the Penguins continue to maintain momentum and confidence, all with knowing that they need to (and probably will) play much better in game 2. That said, if the Rangers bounce back strong on Sunday and gain the split anyway, they are in the exact same position, despite blowing the big lead in game 1. For that reason, if the Penguins want to extract the full benefit from their stirring victory in the series opener, it's necessary that they prevail in the next game and go up 2-0 heading into a building they've struggled in this season for game 3.
The author's 3 stars of game 1:
3) Scott Gomez
2) Pascal Dupuis
1) Sidney Crosby
Friday, April 25, 2008
Lineup Changes for Game #1 Tonight
Therein has re-configured 2 of his 3 defense pairings for tonight's series opener against the Rangers. He will have Whitney with Letang, and Scuderi with Gill.
No word has been given as to the reason for the changes and, in all frankness, it's not easy to figure out why Therrein might do this when the defense has played so well. It might be an attempt to get Gill matched up against Jagr, which would require him being on the ice more. It also might be an attempt to increase our ability, with the Whitney and Letang pairing anyway, to break some of the stifiling neutral zone defense the Rangers like to play.
Changes when things are going well make me a little uneasy, but Therrein deserves the benefit of the doubt for trying to be progressive and tailoring his lineup to try and matchup against the opposition better. One has to believe that's why he's doing this.
We'll see how it turns out.
Also, Gary Roberts has been ruled out of the game tonight.
No word has been given as to the reason for the changes and, in all frankness, it's not easy to figure out why Therrein might do this when the defense has played so well. It might be an attempt to get Gill matched up against Jagr, which would require him being on the ice more. It also might be an attempt to increase our ability, with the Whitney and Letang pairing anyway, to break some of the stifiling neutral zone defense the Rangers like to play.
Changes when things are going well make me a little uneasy, but Therrein deserves the benefit of the doubt for trying to be progressive and tailoring his lineup to try and matchup against the opposition better. One has to believe that's why he's doing this.
We'll see how it turns out.
Also, Gary Roberts has been ruled out of the game tonight.
Things to Watch ... And Other Series Notes
Finally, after all the waiting, the Penguins return to the ice in round 2 tonight.
As the series gets underway, there are several particular things which will be interesting to watch.
Will the Penguins maintain their discipline and not take unnecessary penalties, especially when they know Rangers superpest Sean Avery will be trying to get under their collective skin every time he's on the ice? They can reduce him to a sideshow -- and possible distraction for his own team -- if they just ignore him.
Will the Penguins make a habit of crashing the net and taking the abuse necessary to make life miserable for Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist? To win the series, they have to get in his kitchen. Bump him ... make him uncomfortable ... keep him from seeing the puck. Then, when they get shots, get them upstairs.
Speaking of shots, will the Penguins continue to keep getting the pucks to the net with regularity like they did in the Ottawa series, when they averaged nearly 40 shots per game. The more pucks they throw at Lundqvist, the better.
Will the Penguins come out of the gate in game 1 tonight with the same energy they showed in opening up the playoffs against the Senators. They set the tone for that series from the beginning and it just carried through all 4 games. A series between these 2 squads could be long, but the impact of the way the both teams play in the first 5 or 10 minutes of game 1 shouldn't be understated.
It seems still up in the air as to whether Gary Roberts will return to the lineup in game 1 tonight. He went hard in 2 full practices with the team the last few days, but probably remains a game time decision this evening. Having him in the lineup is undoubtedly meaningful to the Penguins, particularly in a game 1, but if there's still a question at this point about whether his groin can stand up to game action, I can't help but think continuing to hold him out until he's sure he can go out there without risk of re-injury may not be the best idea. Then again, this is the playoffs, which means players don't wait for a return to 100%. We'll see what happens with him.
I read a note in the New York Daily News yesterday indicating that Rangers coach Tom Renney was considering deploying a Ryan Hollweg, Blair Betts and Colton Orr unit against Crosby's line for at least some of the series, in part because,according to the coach, they did well against Sid's unit at times in the regular season.
If I'm the Penguins, I'm praying that Renney puts that unit together against Crosby's line. Not only would I expect Crosby and Hossa to win that battle, it would also keep the other Rangers players off the ice simply because #87 and #18 will be on the ice a lot, requring the Rangers to deploy those guys more than they normally would -- or should.
That's all for now. Can't wait for the action to resume tonight. I'll post a game #1 recap tomorrow.
As the series gets underway, there are several particular things which will be interesting to watch.
Will the Penguins maintain their discipline and not take unnecessary penalties, especially when they know Rangers superpest Sean Avery will be trying to get under their collective skin every time he's on the ice? They can reduce him to a sideshow -- and possible distraction for his own team -- if they just ignore him.
Will the Penguins make a habit of crashing the net and taking the abuse necessary to make life miserable for Rangers goalie Henrik Lundqvist? To win the series, they have to get in his kitchen. Bump him ... make him uncomfortable ... keep him from seeing the puck. Then, when they get shots, get them upstairs.
Speaking of shots, will the Penguins continue to keep getting the pucks to the net with regularity like they did in the Ottawa series, when they averaged nearly 40 shots per game. The more pucks they throw at Lundqvist, the better.
Will the Penguins come out of the gate in game 1 tonight with the same energy they showed in opening up the playoffs against the Senators. They set the tone for that series from the beginning and it just carried through all 4 games. A series between these 2 squads could be long, but the impact of the way the both teams play in the first 5 or 10 minutes of game 1 shouldn't be understated.
It seems still up in the air as to whether Gary Roberts will return to the lineup in game 1 tonight. He went hard in 2 full practices with the team the last few days, but probably remains a game time decision this evening. Having him in the lineup is undoubtedly meaningful to the Penguins, particularly in a game 1, but if there's still a question at this point about whether his groin can stand up to game action, I can't help but think continuing to hold him out until he's sure he can go out there without risk of re-injury may not be the best idea. Then again, this is the playoffs, which means players don't wait for a return to 100%. We'll see what happens with him.
I read a note in the New York Daily News yesterday indicating that Rangers coach Tom Renney was considering deploying a Ryan Hollweg, Blair Betts and Colton Orr unit against Crosby's line for at least some of the series, in part because,according to the coach, they did well against Sid's unit at times in the regular season.
If I'm the Penguins, I'm praying that Renney puts that unit together against Crosby's line. Not only would I expect Crosby and Hossa to win that battle, it would also keep the other Rangers players off the ice simply because #87 and #18 will be on the ice a lot, requring the Rangers to deploy those guys more than they normally would -- or should.
That's all for now. Can't wait for the action to resume tonight. I'll post a game #1 recap tomorrow.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Penguins v. Rangers: Round 2 Breakdown
And the next Penguins victim is?????? The New York Rangers.
For those (myself included) dreaming for a Penguins/Capitals series, we can thank the hated Flyers for turning that into a nightmare in game 7 last night. Or, we could thank the 2 blind mice who officiated the game, Paul Devorski and Don Koharski, for missing (or refusing to call) the obvious interference (not goalie interference ... regular interference) call on Flyer forward Patrick Thoresen in period 2 for bodychecking Capitals defenseman Shane Morrisson when he didn't have the puck right into his goaltender -- leading to an open net score for Sami Kapanen.
Regardless, it's the Pens' and Blueshirts in round 2. Let's break down the matchup:
OFFENSE
The Penguins are led by a world-class trio of players named Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Marian Hossa, who paced the team in round 1. You may have heard about them by now. They also have good complimentary scoring from guys like Ryan Malone, Petr Sykora, and Jordan Staal. Max Talbot, Pascal Dupuis and Gary Roberts also are capable of contributing. The Rangers are no slouch here either. Veterans Jaromir Jagr and Brendan Shanahan are dependable, and last summer's free agent pickups Chris Gomez and Chris Drury also are capable scorers. Add in depth scoring from slick Martin Straka, Rookies Steve Dubinsky and Nigel Daws, and gritty Sean Avery, and there's no shortage of guys that can score. Jagr was particularly good in round 1 against the Devils. EDGE: PENGUINS
DEFENSE
The Penguins allowed only 5 goals in their 4-game sweep of the Senators in round 1, and are an underrated defensive team. They finished 10th in goals against in the regular season, thanks to a well-rounded group of guys who aren't the most physical, but play fairly solid at both ends. A big part of the Penguins game plan in playing defense is puck possession. Once they get they puck, they like to move it quickly out of their zone to their skilled forwards, and have guys like Gonchar, Whitney and Letang (one on each pairing) who can do this well. The Rangers, on the other hand, were one of the best defensive teams in hockey this year, but have a fairly non-descript group on the blueline. Of course, a lot of the credit for that should go to their star goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist, but Tom Renney and his coaching staff deserve some credit for having the team play tight in their own zone most of the season. Dan Girardi, in particular, had a very solid first round against New Jersey, and is a great shot blocker. EDGE: EVEN
GOALTENDING
Marc-Andre Fleury played better than any goalie in round 1 of the playoffs, stopping more than 95% of the shots the Senators threw at him, and finishing with a GAA around 1.25. He has been among the best goalies in the league in the lats 20 games, following his return from a high ankle sprain. The 23 year old's reflexes are among the best in the game, and his position and rebound control have improved remarkably this season. Fleury was quoted recently as saying it seemed like things had slowed down for him on the ice, and that shows in his play. Lundqvist wasn't quite as good as Fleury in round 1 against an offensively challenged Devils squad, but probably is one of the top 5 goaltenders in hockey, and has 3 consecutive Vezina nominations to prove it. He is capable of stealing games and can easily make it difficult for the Penguins offense to get on the board. He keeps the Rangers in games. EDGE: RANGERS
POWER PLAY
The Penguins finished the first round ranked at the top of the power play charts, and can send out 2 separate units who can finish. However, in round 1 against Ottawa, they sent out Crosby, Hossa and Malone up front, with Sergei Gonchar and Malkin on the points for their first unit, stacking the deck a little. They scored 6 power play goals in 4 games against the Senators and clicked at a rate better than their highly-ranked regular season power play, largely because, despite all the star talent they can throw out on the ice, they kept things simple on the man advantage -- shooting the puck to the net and crashing for rebounds. To continue that success in round 2, they are going to have to get a lot of traffic in front of Lundqvist. Malone could be especially key to that effort. The Rangers, on the other hand, can also be a scary group on the power play because of the guys they can trot out. Jagr still likes to control the puck on the half wall, looking to feed Shanahan so he can release his wicked shot, or dish to Rozsival, the former Penguin, on the point. As evidenced by his antics in round 1 against Martin Brodeur, Sean Avery is a pest in front of the goal. EDGE: PENGUINS
PENALTY KILLING
The Penguins have excelled in this area down the stretch since acquiring former Maple Leafs defenseman Todd Gill at the trading deadline. His long reach is an asset killing penalties and he's physical in front of the net, something the Penguins have lacked for years. Gonchar and Brooks Orpik lead the first unit and efficiently get the job done. The Rangers were good during the regular season killing penalties, but are killing at only a 79% clip so far in the playoffs. They will rely on Jordan Staal's brother, Marc Staal, along with Girardi, to help them on the backline in this area. EDGE: EVEN
COACHING
Michel Therrein has done a great job the last few years, getting the Penguins back to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. It's not always easy coaching as many star players as the Penguins have, but he has fostered a team-mentality and implemented a defensive system that all the players buy into. Rangers coach Tom Renney has also done well to blend his many veteran players with their younger players like Dubinsky, Dawes and Staal. This is the 2nd straight year he has led them to the 2nd round of the playoffs. EDGE: EVEN
INTANGIBLES
The Penguins have home ice in this series and Mellon Arena is generally regarded as a fairly hostile venue for opponents. They should get a strong boost coming out of the gate and, if game 7 is necessary, should benefit from being in front of their rowdy home crowd. The Penguins also have fared well against the Rangers in their playoff history. The Rangers went undefeated in Madison Square Garden this year against the Penguins, however. Injuries are not a significant factor for either team, and both squads are coming off a long layoff following round 1, so rust shouldn't be an disadvantage to either team. Jagr's motivation may be a bit of a wild card in this series, but reading him is like approaching Tom Barrasso for an interview -- you never know what you're going to get. EDGE: EVEN
PLAYERS TO WATCH
1. Sergei Gonchar: Sarge has quietly had a fantastic season, both offensively and defensively, and was snubbed in not finishing as one of the 3 finalists for the Norris Trophy. He plays in all situations, keying both the Penguins power play and their penalty killing. He can be a difference maker in this series
2. Marian Hossa: Hossa played very well in round 1 against the Senators. He led the team in shots with 24 and had a number of good scoring chances. He is beginning to show a chemistry playing with Crosby and if he starts putting the puck in the net more often, it will be hard to stop the Penguins.
3. Jaromir Jagr: Despite his declining statistics this season, Jagr can be a difference-maker. If he shows up to play, the Rangers have a fair chance of winning this series. If the Penguins are able to bottle him up, cut down on his time and space, and match Hal Gill against him on the ice as much as they can, especially while killing penalties, they could reduce Jagr, and perhaps the Rangers, to a non-factor.
4. Sean Avery: Avery is miserable to play against, just like Jarkko Ruutu is for the Penguins. The Penguins will have to keep their composure against him, and not get sucked into bad penalties. They did a great job of being disciplined in round 1 against Ottawa. They will have to watch Avery around the net too, because he can score if given the chance. Marc-Andre Fleury will have to be sure not to let Avery get to him, unlike Martin Brodeur in round 1.
HOW THE PENGUINS CAN WIN
Stay out of the penalty box, key on Jagr defensively, and look to screen or crash Lundqvist as much as they can.
HOW THE RANGERS CAN WIN
Don't allow the odd-man rush, get timely scoring from veterans Shanahan and Drury, and turn Avery loose.
PREDICTION
The Penguins are better offensively than the Rangers, but also have the other parts of their game at a high level. They may be a bit rusty coming out of the gate, but have seen the fruits of what can happen if they play their game, which gives them a lot of confidence. Fleury is playing as well as he has in his career. Provided they solve Lundqvist, they will win. PENGUINS IN 6
For those (myself included) dreaming for a Penguins/Capitals series, we can thank the hated Flyers for turning that into a nightmare in game 7 last night. Or, we could thank the 2 blind mice who officiated the game, Paul Devorski and Don Koharski, for missing (or refusing to call) the obvious interference (not goalie interference ... regular interference) call on Flyer forward Patrick Thoresen in period 2 for bodychecking Capitals defenseman Shane Morrisson when he didn't have the puck right into his goaltender -- leading to an open net score for Sami Kapanen.
Regardless, it's the Pens' and Blueshirts in round 2. Let's break down the matchup:
OFFENSE
The Penguins are led by a world-class trio of players named Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Marian Hossa, who paced the team in round 1. You may have heard about them by now. They also have good complimentary scoring from guys like Ryan Malone, Petr Sykora, and Jordan Staal. Max Talbot, Pascal Dupuis and Gary Roberts also are capable of contributing. The Rangers are no slouch here either. Veterans Jaromir Jagr and Brendan Shanahan are dependable, and last summer's free agent pickups Chris Gomez and Chris Drury also are capable scorers. Add in depth scoring from slick Martin Straka, Rookies Steve Dubinsky and Nigel Daws, and gritty Sean Avery, and there's no shortage of guys that can score. Jagr was particularly good in round 1 against the Devils. EDGE: PENGUINS
DEFENSE
The Penguins allowed only 5 goals in their 4-game sweep of the Senators in round 1, and are an underrated defensive team. They finished 10th in goals against in the regular season, thanks to a well-rounded group of guys who aren't the most physical, but play fairly solid at both ends. A big part of the Penguins game plan in playing defense is puck possession. Once they get they puck, they like to move it quickly out of their zone to their skilled forwards, and have guys like Gonchar, Whitney and Letang (one on each pairing) who can do this well. The Rangers, on the other hand, were one of the best defensive teams in hockey this year, but have a fairly non-descript group on the blueline. Of course, a lot of the credit for that should go to their star goaltender, Henrik Lundqvist, but Tom Renney and his coaching staff deserve some credit for having the team play tight in their own zone most of the season. Dan Girardi, in particular, had a very solid first round against New Jersey, and is a great shot blocker. EDGE: EVEN
GOALTENDING
Marc-Andre Fleury played better than any goalie in round 1 of the playoffs, stopping more than 95% of the shots the Senators threw at him, and finishing with a GAA around 1.25. He has been among the best goalies in the league in the lats 20 games, following his return from a high ankle sprain. The 23 year old's reflexes are among the best in the game, and his position and rebound control have improved remarkably this season. Fleury was quoted recently as saying it seemed like things had slowed down for him on the ice, and that shows in his play. Lundqvist wasn't quite as good as Fleury in round 1 against an offensively challenged Devils squad, but probably is one of the top 5 goaltenders in hockey, and has 3 consecutive Vezina nominations to prove it. He is capable of stealing games and can easily make it difficult for the Penguins offense to get on the board. He keeps the Rangers in games. EDGE: RANGERS
POWER PLAY
The Penguins finished the first round ranked at the top of the power play charts, and can send out 2 separate units who can finish. However, in round 1 against Ottawa, they sent out Crosby, Hossa and Malone up front, with Sergei Gonchar and Malkin on the points for their first unit, stacking the deck a little. They scored 6 power play goals in 4 games against the Senators and clicked at a rate better than their highly-ranked regular season power play, largely because, despite all the star talent they can throw out on the ice, they kept things simple on the man advantage -- shooting the puck to the net and crashing for rebounds. To continue that success in round 2, they are going to have to get a lot of traffic in front of Lundqvist. Malone could be especially key to that effort. The Rangers, on the other hand, can also be a scary group on the power play because of the guys they can trot out. Jagr still likes to control the puck on the half wall, looking to feed Shanahan so he can release his wicked shot, or dish to Rozsival, the former Penguin, on the point. As evidenced by his antics in round 1 against Martin Brodeur, Sean Avery is a pest in front of the goal. EDGE: PENGUINS
PENALTY KILLING
The Penguins have excelled in this area down the stretch since acquiring former Maple Leafs defenseman Todd Gill at the trading deadline. His long reach is an asset killing penalties and he's physical in front of the net, something the Penguins have lacked for years. Gonchar and Brooks Orpik lead the first unit and efficiently get the job done. The Rangers were good during the regular season killing penalties, but are killing at only a 79% clip so far in the playoffs. They will rely on Jordan Staal's brother, Marc Staal, along with Girardi, to help them on the backline in this area. EDGE: EVEN
COACHING
Michel Therrein has done a great job the last few years, getting the Penguins back to the playoffs for the first time since 2003. It's not always easy coaching as many star players as the Penguins have, but he has fostered a team-mentality and implemented a defensive system that all the players buy into. Rangers coach Tom Renney has also done well to blend his many veteran players with their younger players like Dubinsky, Dawes and Staal. This is the 2nd straight year he has led them to the 2nd round of the playoffs. EDGE: EVEN
INTANGIBLES
The Penguins have home ice in this series and Mellon Arena is generally regarded as a fairly hostile venue for opponents. They should get a strong boost coming out of the gate and, if game 7 is necessary, should benefit from being in front of their rowdy home crowd. The Penguins also have fared well against the Rangers in their playoff history. The Rangers went undefeated in Madison Square Garden this year against the Penguins, however. Injuries are not a significant factor for either team, and both squads are coming off a long layoff following round 1, so rust shouldn't be an disadvantage to either team. Jagr's motivation may be a bit of a wild card in this series, but reading him is like approaching Tom Barrasso for an interview -- you never know what you're going to get. EDGE: EVEN
PLAYERS TO WATCH
1. Sergei Gonchar: Sarge has quietly had a fantastic season, both offensively and defensively, and was snubbed in not finishing as one of the 3 finalists for the Norris Trophy. He plays in all situations, keying both the Penguins power play and their penalty killing. He can be a difference maker in this series
2. Marian Hossa: Hossa played very well in round 1 against the Senators. He led the team in shots with 24 and had a number of good scoring chances. He is beginning to show a chemistry playing with Crosby and if he starts putting the puck in the net more often, it will be hard to stop the Penguins.
3. Jaromir Jagr: Despite his declining statistics this season, Jagr can be a difference-maker. If he shows up to play, the Rangers have a fair chance of winning this series. If the Penguins are able to bottle him up, cut down on his time and space, and match Hal Gill against him on the ice as much as they can, especially while killing penalties, they could reduce Jagr, and perhaps the Rangers, to a non-factor.
4. Sean Avery: Avery is miserable to play against, just like Jarkko Ruutu is for the Penguins. The Penguins will have to keep their composure against him, and not get sucked into bad penalties. They did a great job of being disciplined in round 1 against Ottawa. They will have to watch Avery around the net too, because he can score if given the chance. Marc-Andre Fleury will have to be sure not to let Avery get to him, unlike Martin Brodeur in round 1.
HOW THE PENGUINS CAN WIN
Stay out of the penalty box, key on Jagr defensively, and look to screen or crash Lundqvist as much as they can.
HOW THE RANGERS CAN WIN
Don't allow the odd-man rush, get timely scoring from veterans Shanahan and Drury, and turn Avery loose.
PREDICTION
The Penguins are better offensively than the Rangers, but also have the other parts of their game at a high level. They may be a bit rusty coming out of the gate, but have seen the fruits of what can happen if they play their game, which gives them a lot of confidence. Fleury is playing as well as he has in his career. Provided they solve Lundqvist, they will win. PENGUINS IN 6
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
And Then There Were 2 ...
6 days after dispatching the Senators, the Penguins still don't know who their 2nd round opponent will be.
Might it be Jaromir Jagr and the New York Rangers, or will it be Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals? At least it's down to 2 teams, after the Bruins went down 5-0 to the Canadiens in game 7 last night. Had the Bruins won, the Penguins would have faced off against them for the next week or two.
Interestingly, it seems like a lot of the talk in Boston is about how much credit the Bruins deserve for playing Montreal so tough and taking them to 7 games as a decided underdog. Personally, I think the Bruins should have won that series. If I were a Bruins fan, I'd have a hard time getting over coach Claude Julien's decision to bench one of their best offensive players for games 2, 3 and 4, 19-goal man Phil Kessel, becuase he "didn't compete enough" in game 1. During the games he missed, the Bruins went down 3 games to 1 in the series, and 2 of their 3 losses were close games --- games where Kessel could have made the difference. Checking is tight in the playoffs and players like Kessel can break a game open. That's what he did in games 5 and 6. I believe taking a game-breaking player out of your lineup in the playoffs is a mistake unless he's costing the team. Kessel wasn't costing the team, and had no chance to redeem any poor performance in game 1 until, as it turned out, it was too late for Julien and the Bruins.
I'll be watching game 7 of the Capitals/Flyers series tonight with great interest. I believe the Captials are a better round 2 opponent for the Penguins than the Rangers are, so I hope Washington pulls off the comeback and advances. Plus, what Penguins fan in their right mind doesn't want to see the hated Flyers bounced? Certainly, the league is hoping for a Washington/Pittsburgh series. They would love nothing more than to see Ovechkin face-off against Crosby and Malkin in a marquee, made-for-national-tv matchup.
Whoever our opponent is, I'll break down the matchup tomorrow.
Might it be Jaromir Jagr and the New York Rangers, or will it be Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals? At least it's down to 2 teams, after the Bruins went down 5-0 to the Canadiens in game 7 last night. Had the Bruins won, the Penguins would have faced off against them for the next week or two.
Interestingly, it seems like a lot of the talk in Boston is about how much credit the Bruins deserve for playing Montreal so tough and taking them to 7 games as a decided underdog. Personally, I think the Bruins should have won that series. If I were a Bruins fan, I'd have a hard time getting over coach Claude Julien's decision to bench one of their best offensive players for games 2, 3 and 4, 19-goal man Phil Kessel, becuase he "didn't compete enough" in game 1. During the games he missed, the Bruins went down 3 games to 1 in the series, and 2 of their 3 losses were close games --- games where Kessel could have made the difference. Checking is tight in the playoffs and players like Kessel can break a game open. That's what he did in games 5 and 6. I believe taking a game-breaking player out of your lineup in the playoffs is a mistake unless he's costing the team. Kessel wasn't costing the team, and had no chance to redeem any poor performance in game 1 until, as it turned out, it was too late for Julien and the Bruins.
I'll be watching game 7 of the Capitals/Flyers series tonight with great interest. I believe the Captials are a better round 2 opponent for the Penguins than the Rangers are, so I hope Washington pulls off the comeback and advances. Plus, what Penguins fan in their right mind doesn't want to see the hated Flyers bounced? Certainly, the league is hoping for a Washington/Pittsburgh series. They would love nothing more than to see Ovechkin face-off against Crosby and Malkin in a marquee, made-for-national-tv matchup.
Whoever our opponent is, I'll break down the matchup tomorrow.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Flowers Bloom in the Spring
It seems like any talk of a goalie controversy in Pittsburgh was a long time ago, doesn't it?
Marc-Andre Fleury has played some spectacular goal for the Penguins of late. About 20 games ago when he returned after missing about 3 months from a high ankle sprain injury, I don't think anybody new what to expect. Ty Conklin, who one could argue saved the Penguins season after Fleury went down, was very impressive in his absence, running off a 10 or 11 game unbeaten run and skyrocketing to the top of the league's save percentage leaders.
Well, "the Flower" has let his play do the talking. Since returning, he's won just about every start and stopped about 95% of the pucks thrown his way in the process. He didn't show a single sign in the first round series against the Senators that his play might slip anytime soon. In fact, if he continues to play as he has, the Penguins have an excellent chance of playing 3 more rounds. Great goaltending is usually more important than any other element in the playoffs and the flightless birds are getting that from #29 right now.
So why the sudden metamorphisis?
One word: Experience
Like most of the rest of the team, maturity seems to have come quickly this season. Some have cited Conklin's strong play in Fleury's absence for that. In other words, they say that for the first time, Fleury realized he had legitimate pressure to play well to keep the starting job. I don't know if that's it as much as it is just a matter of him finally having enough experience to put everything in his game together.
Several weeks ago, I read an interesting piece on Fleury that hasn't gotten talked about much. For those interested, that piece can be found here:
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/archive/s_561374.html
In the article, there was a moment of notable and unusual candor from the Penguins netminder. After NJ Devils goalie Martin Brodeur -- someone who has been openly complimentary of Fleury in the past -- was quoted as saying (again) that Fleury had all the talent, but also saying (for the first time that I've heard) that Fleury needed to calm down and manage his game more, Fleury was asked about the reasons for his improved play.
He said that things have slowed down for him on the ice (always something you want to hear your goaltender say). He added that he's not challenging every shooter in every instance like he was before, but instead staying back in his net a bit. For a guy who has always been one of the quickest goalies in the NHL, that extra second or half a second seems to have made all the difference for Fleury. He's stopping the puck with regularity and the extra time also seems to have given him the chance to control his rebounds better -- another area of his game that has markedly improved since returning from the injury.
Whether he was listening to Brodeur or not, his play on the ice lately suggests he might as well have been. The bottom line is that Fleury has simply grown up as a goaltender in the NHL. He has realized that you can't just get by on quick reflexes. Being in the net is as much about "managing" your game ... your positioning ... your rebound control ... your composure ... as it is pure physical talent.
With everything seemingly coming together for Fleury at the right time, the Penguins couldn't ask for more.
Marc-Andre Fleury has played some spectacular goal for the Penguins of late. About 20 games ago when he returned after missing about 3 months from a high ankle sprain injury, I don't think anybody new what to expect. Ty Conklin, who one could argue saved the Penguins season after Fleury went down, was very impressive in his absence, running off a 10 or 11 game unbeaten run and skyrocketing to the top of the league's save percentage leaders.
Well, "the Flower" has let his play do the talking. Since returning, he's won just about every start and stopped about 95% of the pucks thrown his way in the process. He didn't show a single sign in the first round series against the Senators that his play might slip anytime soon. In fact, if he continues to play as he has, the Penguins have an excellent chance of playing 3 more rounds. Great goaltending is usually more important than any other element in the playoffs and the flightless birds are getting that from #29 right now.
So why the sudden metamorphisis?
One word: Experience
Like most of the rest of the team, maturity seems to have come quickly this season. Some have cited Conklin's strong play in Fleury's absence for that. In other words, they say that for the first time, Fleury realized he had legitimate pressure to play well to keep the starting job. I don't know if that's it as much as it is just a matter of him finally having enough experience to put everything in his game together.
Several weeks ago, I read an interesting piece on Fleury that hasn't gotten talked about much. For those interested, that piece can be found here:
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/archive/s_561374.html
In the article, there was a moment of notable and unusual candor from the Penguins netminder. After NJ Devils goalie Martin Brodeur -- someone who has been openly complimentary of Fleury in the past -- was quoted as saying (again) that Fleury had all the talent, but also saying (for the first time that I've heard) that Fleury needed to calm down and manage his game more, Fleury was asked about the reasons for his improved play.
He said that things have slowed down for him on the ice (always something you want to hear your goaltender say). He added that he's not challenging every shooter in every instance like he was before, but instead staying back in his net a bit. For a guy who has always been one of the quickest goalies in the NHL, that extra second or half a second seems to have made all the difference for Fleury. He's stopping the puck with regularity and the extra time also seems to have given him the chance to control his rebounds better -- another area of his game that has markedly improved since returning from the injury.
Whether he was listening to Brodeur or not, his play on the ice lately suggests he might as well have been. The bottom line is that Fleury has simply grown up as a goaltender in the NHL. He has realized that you can't just get by on quick reflexes. Being in the net is as much about "managing" your game ... your positioning ... your rebound control ... your composure ... as it is pure physical talent.
With everything seemingly coming together for Fleury at the right time, the Penguins couldn't ask for more.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Rest .... or Rust?
Let the debate begin.
Will the Penguins be more advantaged by sweeping Ottawa because of the rest they will get, or will they be more disadvantaged because they may not be as sharp when they play again?
This isn't an easy call. I've always been of the opinion that when a team is playing well, you just want to keep rolling out there. You want to keep the momentum going. On the other hand, I've also always been of the opinion that a team really increase its chances of winning the Cup if it has a short round somewhere in the run. Ideally, this happens in rounds 2 or 3 (or 4, in the best case scenario, of course), when a team has already been playing a bit and therefore isn't subject to get out of sync as much when play resumes. However, anytime you have a short round, there certainly is some benefit. A 5-gamer is almost always the ideal series to win -- long enough to give you a rest, but not long enough to let you become rusty before the next series starts.
As I reflect back on some of the prior instances when the Penguins have swept their opponent, the results are mixed. Of course, they swept the Bruins in the 92 conference finals, only to finish an 11 game playoff record winning streak by taking the Cup in another 4 game sweep of the Blackhawks in the next round. Meanwhile, in 1989, Lemieux's 199 point season, the Penguins swept the Rangers in round 1, only to lose a seven game series to Ken Wregget and the Flyers. But I don't recall the Penguins having a noticably slow start in the Flyer series. In fact, they were up 3 games to 2 in it before losing the last 2.
The rest will help the team, but it's not like we absolutely need the time to help players recover from notable injuries. Roberts should be well enough to play (hopefully) when round 2 starts. Malone will be able to recover from some bumps and bruises he's dealing with, but he would have continued to play anyway. Certainly, Crosby's ankle won't be worse off from the extra time away from game action, but the same thing can be said about him -- he's be playing regardless.
All in all, it's hard to say what will happen. I certainly think it's possible that our favorite waterfoul could be subject to a little rust when they get going again. I believe the team will have to work harder to start off the series with intensity. The good thing is that the Penguins have demonstrated that they know how to play that way --- they know what it takes. It's just a matter going out and doing it. And even if they start the series a little slow, they should be able to kick things in gear quickly enough that the rust won't be a major impediment for them. Mentally, they seem to be there. They probably will be challenged more in the next round, though, and that may force them to get into the series quickly as well.
On a final note, it's looking more and more like the Rangers will be our next opponent. Although the Bruins did a great job winning game 5 on the road in Montreal to make their series 3-2 going back to Boston for game 6, it's hard to see them winning the final 3, especially against an opponent that has their number. With Washington going down in double OT in game 4 last night, it's also hard to imagine the hated Flyers not knocking them off (and probably soon). If Montreal and Philadelphia win, we'll draw the Rangers/Devils winner. Brodeur certainly can steal a game or two, but I don't think he'll steal the next 3 in a row to help the Devils overcome the 3-1 series deficit they are facing. That means the fans will soon get another chance to boo the man who once said of his time in Pittsburgh, "I'm dying alive".
Until the next time ....
Will the Penguins be more advantaged by sweeping Ottawa because of the rest they will get, or will they be more disadvantaged because they may not be as sharp when they play again?
This isn't an easy call. I've always been of the opinion that when a team is playing well, you just want to keep rolling out there. You want to keep the momentum going. On the other hand, I've also always been of the opinion that a team really increase its chances of winning the Cup if it has a short round somewhere in the run. Ideally, this happens in rounds 2 or 3 (or 4, in the best case scenario, of course), when a team has already been playing a bit and therefore isn't subject to get out of sync as much when play resumes. However, anytime you have a short round, there certainly is some benefit. A 5-gamer is almost always the ideal series to win -- long enough to give you a rest, but not long enough to let you become rusty before the next series starts.
As I reflect back on some of the prior instances when the Penguins have swept their opponent, the results are mixed. Of course, they swept the Bruins in the 92 conference finals, only to finish an 11 game playoff record winning streak by taking the Cup in another 4 game sweep of the Blackhawks in the next round. Meanwhile, in 1989, Lemieux's 199 point season, the Penguins swept the Rangers in round 1, only to lose a seven game series to Ken Wregget and the Flyers. But I don't recall the Penguins having a noticably slow start in the Flyer series. In fact, they were up 3 games to 2 in it before losing the last 2.
The rest will help the team, but it's not like we absolutely need the time to help players recover from notable injuries. Roberts should be well enough to play (hopefully) when round 2 starts. Malone will be able to recover from some bumps and bruises he's dealing with, but he would have continued to play anyway. Certainly, Crosby's ankle won't be worse off from the extra time away from game action, but the same thing can be said about him -- he's be playing regardless.
All in all, it's hard to say what will happen. I certainly think it's possible that our favorite waterfoul could be subject to a little rust when they get going again. I believe the team will have to work harder to start off the series with intensity. The good thing is that the Penguins have demonstrated that they know how to play that way --- they know what it takes. It's just a matter going out and doing it. And even if they start the series a little slow, they should be able to kick things in gear quickly enough that the rust won't be a major impediment for them. Mentally, they seem to be there. They probably will be challenged more in the next round, though, and that may force them to get into the series quickly as well.
On a final note, it's looking more and more like the Rangers will be our next opponent. Although the Bruins did a great job winning game 5 on the road in Montreal to make their series 3-2 going back to Boston for game 6, it's hard to see them winning the final 3, especially against an opponent that has their number. With Washington going down in double OT in game 4 last night, it's also hard to imagine the hated Flyers not knocking them off (and probably soon). If Montreal and Philadelphia win, we'll draw the Rangers/Devils winner. Brodeur certainly can steal a game or two, but I don't think he'll steal the next 3 in a row to help the Devils overcome the 3-1 series deficit they are facing. That means the fans will soon get another chance to boo the man who once said of his time in Pittsburgh, "I'm dying alive".
Until the next time ....
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Opening Series Recap
What to say after the opening round sweep of the Senators? How about: WOW. Contrary to the opinions of some Ottawa players that they were competing with the Penguins or "had" the flightless birds at varying points, the Senators were clearly outplayed and outclassed by the Penguins the entire series.
Certainly, the Senators have been one of the worst teams in the league since the dawn of 2008. It's also true that Ottawa had their share of injuries. But the truth of the matter is that, even if their team was healthy, it's hard to envision them having played as well as Pittsburgh.
With that said, here are the most significant differences in the Penguins' play against the Senators in round 1 this year as opposed to in the opening round last season:
1) Focus. The Penguins played with intensity from the drop of the puck in each game. Rarely were there letdowns and when their were, the team re-established its superiority quickly. Last year they were overwhelmed. Crosby said it often seemed like there were 8 Senators on the ice in the series opener last year and, with the way we looked at the time, he wasn't kidding.
2) Goaltending. Fleury was good when he needed to be against the Senators this time around. He didn't have a poor series last year, but it's hard for anyone to not notice he has played better than any other netminder in round 1 so far. More on him in a few days.
3) Secondary scoring. Sure, the big boys scored and led the way, but Ruutu, Talbot and Roberts all lit the lamp this time around, unlike last year when everyone other than a few players were passengers.
4) Power Play. The Penguins scored a power play goal in every game in the series this year (6 for 23), after the man advantage miserably failed them in round 1 last season.
5) Defense. The underrated Pittsburgh defense set a team record for goals against in a playoff series, allowing only 5 (the prior record was 6). They were very solid and, thanks to all the big boys up front who occupy the spotlight most of the time, continue to thrive behind the scenes.
The fact of the matter is that there was little the Penguins did not do well in round 1. There is some concern in the national media circles that the Penguins failure to be significantly tested in round 1 could be a problem for them in the next or later rounds. I suppose that's possible, but I think unlikely. For one, the Penguins have been a club that responds well to adversity all season long. The significant injuries they sustained hardened them, and they only lost more than 2 games in a row three times during the entire season. They seem to bounceback well so if they run into adversity in the future, they don't lack the ability to respond.
Not only that, but the team seems very focused. The veteran leadership is also very good on what is generally regarded as a young squad. The players all seem to recognize that their time in the playoffs this year can be a marathon and not a sprint if they maintain their intensity. If they play in future rounds with the same desire they had in this series, they will be fine -- even if they do run into adversity.
That's all for now. It will be nice to sit down and dissect some of the other series more as the Penguins await their round 2 opponent.
Certainly, the Senators have been one of the worst teams in the league since the dawn of 2008. It's also true that Ottawa had their share of injuries. But the truth of the matter is that, even if their team was healthy, it's hard to envision them having played as well as Pittsburgh.
With that said, here are the most significant differences in the Penguins' play against the Senators in round 1 this year as opposed to in the opening round last season:
1) Focus. The Penguins played with intensity from the drop of the puck in each game. Rarely were there letdowns and when their were, the team re-established its superiority quickly. Last year they were overwhelmed. Crosby said it often seemed like there were 8 Senators on the ice in the series opener last year and, with the way we looked at the time, he wasn't kidding.
2) Goaltending. Fleury was good when he needed to be against the Senators this time around. He didn't have a poor series last year, but it's hard for anyone to not notice he has played better than any other netminder in round 1 so far. More on him in a few days.
3) Secondary scoring. Sure, the big boys scored and led the way, but Ruutu, Talbot and Roberts all lit the lamp this time around, unlike last year when everyone other than a few players were passengers.
4) Power Play. The Penguins scored a power play goal in every game in the series this year (6 for 23), after the man advantage miserably failed them in round 1 last season.
5) Defense. The underrated Pittsburgh defense set a team record for goals against in a playoff series, allowing only 5 (the prior record was 6). They were very solid and, thanks to all the big boys up front who occupy the spotlight most of the time, continue to thrive behind the scenes.
The fact of the matter is that there was little the Penguins did not do well in round 1. There is some concern in the national media circles that the Penguins failure to be significantly tested in round 1 could be a problem for them in the next or later rounds. I suppose that's possible, but I think unlikely. For one, the Penguins have been a club that responds well to adversity all season long. The significant injuries they sustained hardened them, and they only lost more than 2 games in a row three times during the entire season. They seem to bounceback well so if they run into adversity in the future, they don't lack the ability to respond.
Not only that, but the team seems very focused. The veteran leadership is also very good on what is generally regarded as a young squad. The players all seem to recognize that their time in the playoffs this year can be a marathon and not a sprint if they maintain their intensity. If they play in future rounds with the same desire they had in this series, they will be fine -- even if they do run into adversity.
That's all for now. It will be nice to sit down and dissect some of the other series more as the Penguins await their round 2 opponent.
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