Penguins v. Sharks Preview

The Penguins continue their 4-game road trip tonight on the west coast against the San Jose Sharks at 10:30 PM EST.

There's no secret this will be another good test for the Penguins. The Sharks lead their division at 7-2, accumulating 14 points this year so far, and the Boys of Winter will have to contend with San Jose's usual collection of talent -- Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and company. This year, they've added defenseman Dan Boyle to the mix and he's gotten off to a good start with the club. The Sharks are also getting good production from some other defenseman, though -- Christian Ehrhoff and Marc-Edouard Vlasic. They have 8 and 7 points respectively. Throw in Boyle's 9 and that's 25 points this year already from only 3 members of the backline.

By comparison, the Penguins top 3 scorers from the blueline -- Kris Letang, Alex Goligoski and (gulp) Rob Scuderi have combined for 9 points this season.

It doesn't look like Hal Gill will be back in the lineup tonight. He's still dealing with a hand injury.

Dany Sabourin has been slated to start in goal for the Penguins, which I don't think is a good move by Therrein.

Sabourin had a real nice game in his last outing -- a 2-1 (SO) win over the Boston Bruins. But after coughing up a 2-0 lead and losing 3-2 (SO) to the New York Rangers Saturday night, the Penguins need to get back on the winning side of the ledger tonight and the Sharks are a tough test. I'd want Fleury in there for this one.

I'm not saying the Penguins won't win, but this is exactly the type of situation where Sabourin has stumbled in the past. He gives you one great game, but comes out in the next contest and looks average -- or worse.

If Therrein wants to play Sabourin on this road trip, fine --- play him Thursday in Phoenix or Saturday in St. Louis. Not tonight against the toughest opponent on the trip.

Jordan Staal is a guy that really has to start putting the puck in the net. He doesn't have a goal in 9 games this year, and the last 3 of those have come with him centering the 2nd line. He's played pretty well the last few games; it's time he contributed more on the scoresheet.

Personally, I love west coast games. Nothing makes me happier than going to bed after a late night win.

On the other hand, the losses are tougher to take after you've been up that late.

I should be able to post a recap tomorrow.