The Pens Gurus

CLOSED

2008-07-18T20:29:00.002-04:00

I don't have the time to post on this blog 24/7. I now blog here- http://penguinsthatfly.blogspot.com/ under the name J.RUUTU37.

The main blogger on this blog is The Big K but I do post once in a while so be sure to check it out!

Red Wings Vs Penguins Review

2008-05-22T17:40:00.007-04:00

So that time is upon us in just over a day. The Stanley cup finals begin between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings. Both teams up to now have a had a great run to the finals. The Red Wings facing their toughest test so far vs the Dallas Stars in which the Stars down by 3 managed to get it 3-2 before they were dumped 4-1 and 4-2 series. The route for the Pens was a little easier as they beat the Flyers 6-0 to take a 4-1 series win. With both those facts aside i think we will be in for a very competitive final that could go right down to the wire.

For the purpose of this review i will take a look at what i see as the key areas to the series and what could ultimately win or lose it. The first area that has to be looked at is the attacking flair both these teams possess, while yes the Pens punch a greater threat on paper, you have to look at it in the way that the joint leaders on 21 points are Sidney Crosby and Henrik Zetterberg. Also in the top ten the Red Wings have Pavel Datsyuk and Johan Franzen so by no means do these Wings lack offensive punch, each player skilled in their own right. However i think the Pens win this contest by a country mile as they have just too much attacking prowess the likes of Crosby, Malkin, Malone, Dupuis, Sykora, Hossa, Staal, Gonchar, Whitney to name but a few. This is a area the Pens can really drum home a advantage and really make the Wings pay. If the Pens can get all these players firring they will be to much. The problem they face is if Crosby or Malkin doesn't perform one night there many others who will but also if one doesn't the other probably will.

The next key area to look at is defense. This is key to both sides as they both have a great defensive unit (I will assess goaltending later in the review) that has been very solid, with much thanks to the Goaltenders. This is a area i think the Red Wings have a slight advantage on paper however trying to keep the likes of Crosby&Co silent is no easy task and i think this could be a great drain on the unit as the final progresses. The key will be for the Red Wings to shut down this attacking force or it could be a clean sweep for them. However i don't see this happening but I'm always game for surprises. As for the Pens i feel they will be just as busy. However the unit will be much stronger later in the series as they will not have to worry too much about too many attacking forces that possess endless skill. This match-up is a lot tighter in which i feel the Wings have a slight edge of a young Penguins defensive unit, but i don't think this alone would be enough for the Wings to win the Series. Expect a low scoring series though.

The next area and what i think is the biggest area and will be key to the whole series and that is that of the Goaltenders Marc Andre-Fleury and Chris Osgood. Two very solid goalies with one playing the hockey of his lifetime and living up to those expectations. Fleury who has been brilliant since his return from a High Ankle sprain. He thought he lost his Place to Ty Conklin has come on too show us he is a Franchise Goalie. He will however be up against Chris Osgood a seasoned veteran who has been there many times. If Fleury can play like he has been the Pens have a great shot but equally the same can be said for the Wings. This area which is the key to it all is hard to decide and i would not like to be the one to do that. I will say one thing if one has a bad game it will be a big momentum shifter in the series for whichever team wins. Expect low scoring between these two.

The next areas to look at are the Powerplay (PP) and Penalty kill (PK). The first being the PP this is a area the Pens win marginally mainly due to the same points mentioned in the Attacking section at the beginning. They possess too much of a attacking punch. However the Wings do have a very good PP unit. They are the best two in the league it will be interesting to see how they play. I do give the Pens a slight edge. The next area the PK again pits two of the best in the Playoffs and Pens team which has come on leaps and bounds since Therrian took over two years ago. This will be a tight one in this area and it is pretty much even but i will have to give a very slight and i mean very slight edge to the Pens. Why may you ask and that is simple its is down to the play of Staal and Talbot, who have been immense on the PK making it tough for the opposition.

Now to the Part you have all been waiting for the Prediction. I said on http://www.pensunderground.com/ it would be the Pens in 6. I will stick to that prediction. It will be a low scoring series in which will be very entertaining and hard on both sides. This is the Series the NHL wanted in the final and i don't think it will disappoint.

Pens vs. Red Wings Lineup - Game 1

2008-05-21T19:04:00.004-04:00

SCF: Game 1 Lines

By mvuk, Pittsburgh Sports Insider

Pens Line Combinations

Dupuis - Crosby - Hossa
Malone - Malkin - Sykora
Ruutu - Staal - Kennedy
Roberts - Talbot - Laraque

Defense Parings

Orpik - Gonchar
Gill - Scuderi
Letang - Whitney

Wings Line Combinations

Holmstrom - Zetterberg - Datsyuk
Franzen - Hudler - Cleary
Samuelsson - Draper - Drake
Maltby - Helm - McCarty

Defense Pairings

Lidstrom - Rafalski
Stuart - Kronwall
Lebda - Chelios

Article: http://pod08.prospero.com/n/blogs/blog.aspx?nav=main&webtag=KDKA_Sports&entry=8

Watch Games 1&2 Inside Mellon Arena

From KDKA.com

During the playoffs, fans without tickets have been watching the Penguins games at Mellon Arena on a big screen outdoors.

But now, the team is offering a unique way for fans to catch all the of the action of Games 1 and 2.

The Pens will face off against the Detroit Red Wings beginning this Saturday at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

Game 2 will be on Memorial Day, May 26, also in Detroit.

The series then moves to Pittsburgh for Games 3 and 4 at Mellon Arena on Wednesday, May 28 and Saturday, May 31.

All Stanley Cup Finals games will start at 8 p.m.

Meanwhile, the Penguins are opening Mellon Arena for fans to watch Game 1 and 2 on the Jumbotron.

Article: http://kdka.com/sports/penguins/Penguins.Red.Wings.2.728273.html

SCF: Penguins vs. Red Wings

2008-05-20T15:21:00.003-04:00

SCF Schedule

Game 1, Saturday, May 24:

Pittsburgh at Detroit (VERSUS, CBC, RDS)
===

Game 2, Monday, May 26:

Pittsburgh at Detroit (VERSUS, CBC, RDS)

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Game 3, Wednesday, May 28:

Detroit at Pittsburgh (NBC, CBC, RDS)

===
Game 4, Saturday, May 31:

Detroit at Pittsburgh (NBC, CBC, RDS)

Game 5, Monday, June 2 (if necessary):

Pittsburgh at Detroit (NBC, CBC, RDS)
===

Game 6, Wednesday, June 4 (if nececssary):

Detroit at Pittsburgh (NBC, CBC, RDS)
===

Game 7, Saturday, June 7 (if necessary):

Pittsburgh at Detroit (NBC, CBC, RDS)

Stanley Cup Finals Tickets

From Penguins.nhl.com

A limited number of individual game tickets for the first two home games of the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals will go on sale to the general public on Wednesday, May 21 at 10 a.m., the Pittsburgh Penguins announced.

The Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings will open the best-of-seven championship series at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit with Games 1 and 2 on Saturday, May 24 and Monday, May 26.

The series then moves to Pittsburgh for Games 3 and 4 at Mellon Arena on Wednesday, May 28 and Saturday, May 31. All games in the Stanley Cup Finals will start at 8 p.m. Tickets for the first two home games will be referred to as “Round 4, Home Game 1” and “Round 4, Home Game 2”.

Approximately 1,000 tickets will be available for each game. Fans may purchase a maximum of two tickets per game.

Fans are encouraged to order online at www.ticketmaster.com since tickets for all home playoff games this season have sold out in a matter of minutes.

Tickets also are available for purchase at the Mellon Arena Gate One Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, or by calling Ticketmaster at 412-323-1919. Fans are advised that lottery systems will be used at the Gate One Box Office and Ticketmaster locations.

Video: Good Bye Filthadelphia Criers!

Pittsburgh advances to the Stanley Cup finals for the first time since 1992

2008-05-18T21:17:00.004-04:00

Penguins shutout Flyers 6-0, take the Eastern Conference title 4 games to 1

Sunday, May 18, 2008

The future is indeed now as the Pittsburgh Penguins, powered by youth and tempered in the crucible that is the Eastern Conference playoffs, have earned their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance since 1992. The Penguins shutout the Philadelphia Flyers 6 to 0, taking the Eastern Conference Finals 4 games to 1.

The Philadelphia Flyers, showing signs of life with a game 4 victory, received a morale and defensive boost as defenseman Kimmo Timonen returned to the lineup after being sidelined by a blood clot in his right ankle. Flyers defenseman Braydon Coburn remained on the shelf due to the facial lacerations he received when a slap shot by Penguins defenseman Hal Gill deflected off fellow Penguin Evgeni Malkin's stick. However, the return of their best player, as described by Flyers head coach John Stevens, just would not be enough for Philadelphia.

The Penguins came out of the gate on fire and never looked back. Penguins left winger Ryan Malone opened the scoring with a power play goal at 2:30 of the 1st period. Seven minutes later, center Evgeni Malkin scored as Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Martin Biron got his stick tangled up with Ryan Malone behind the net, allowing Malkin to tap the puck in under Biron's left pad from behind the net.

Right winger Marian Hossa, acquired at the NHL trade deadline, one-timed a beautiful pass from Pittsburgh captain Sidney Crosby to put the Penguins up by 3 goals midway through the second period, which seemingly deflated the Flyers. Malone scored again on a power play, this time on a deflection from Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar 11:42 into the second period. Pittsburgh center Jordan Staal scored a late goal in the second frame when he poked the puck past Martin Biron with just 52 seconds left.

Philadelphia appeared to have scored a goal in the waning moments of the second period. However, referee Paul Devorski ruled that Flyers left winger Patrick Thoresen was interfering with Penguins goalie Marc-Andre Fleury and waved the goal off.

The Penguins scoring department closed up shop with left wing Pascal Dupuis scoring with a deflection off his leg from Marian Hossa's slap shot from the right point 4:03 into the third period.

While the offensive firepower of the Penguins was on display, the incredible Penguins team effort on defense cannot be overlooked. Marc-Andre Fleury was once again spectacular in net, stopping all 21 shots that he faced. Meanwhile, as a team, the Penguins blocked 15 shots from ever reaching Fleury, with defenseman Brooks Orpik leading the way with 4 blocked shots. Kudos go to Pittsburgh head coach Michel Therrien for instilling a great back checking ethic into his forwards.

Time will tell whom will face off against Pittsburgh, but one thing is certain: the evolution is complete. With a suffocating defense and incredible scoring power, the Penguins are a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.

Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins, the 2007-2008 Eastern Conference Champions!

Illness in the Igloo

Three Pittsburgh Penguins players are under the weather of late. Center Evgeni Malkin and right wing Peter Sykora both missed practice, but did play in the 6-0 trouncing of Philadelphia on Sunday. Sykora left midway in the second period and did not return to the game. Left wing Gary Roberts was scratched from the line up once again due to illness.

The Waiting Game

The Penguins have their tickets punched for the Stanley Cup Finals. The question is, who will they face? Will they face the President's Cup winning Detroit Red Wings, lead by Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen, or will they face the Dallas Stars, lead by goaltender Marty Turco and his spectacular play in net?

These questions could be answered Monday evening as Detroit visits Dallas for game 6 of the Western Conference final.

Eastern Conference Finals - Statistics

Philadelphia Flyers

Daniel Briere: 1 goal, 1 assist, 2 points, -4
Mike Richards: 3 goals, 0 assists, 5 points, -1
R.J. Umberger: 1 goals, 3 assists, 4 points, +1
Vaclav Prospal: 0 goals, 1 assist, 1 point, -2

Martin Biron: 1-4, 18 goals against, 145 shots faced, .877 save %

Pittsburgh Penguins

Sidney Crosby: 2 goals, 5 assists, 7 points, +4
Evgeni Malkin: 3 goals, 2 assists, 5 points, +2
Ryan Malone: 3 goals, 3 assists, 6 points, +3
Marian Hossa: 4 goals, 5 assists, 9 points, +4

Marc-Andre Fleury: 4-1, 6 goals against, 132 shots faced, .954 save %

Pens - Eastern Conference Champs!!!

2008-05-18T19:25:00.002-04:00

Eastern Conference Champs

Official Pens Merchandise

BUY IT HERE-> http://shop.nhl.com/shop/index.jsp?categoryId=1920312

NHL.com-RECAP

By Brian Compton, NHL.com Staff Writer

For the first time in 16 years, the Pittsburgh Penguins have reached the Stanley Cup Final.

For Ryan Malone, it’s been a long time coming.

The Pittsburgh native scored twice, Marian Hossa had a goal and three assists and Marc-Andre Fleury stopped all 21 shots he faced as the Pens advanced to the final round for the first time since 1992 with an emphatic 6-0 win over the Philadelphia Flyers at Mellon Arena on Sunday.

The victory was Pittsburgh’s 16th straight in the Steel City. The Penguins have not lost at Mellon Arena since Feb. 24, when they dropped a shootout decision to the San Jose Sharks.

The Pens needed little time to break the scoreless tie, as Malone notched his first goal of the game at 2:30 of the opening period. Just 12 seconds after Mike Knuble was whistled for hooking, Malone redirected a feed from Sidney Crosby past Flyers goalie Martin Biron as the Pens took a 1-0 lead.

Evgeni Malkin put Pittsburgh up by a pair just over seven minutes later with his first goal since Game 1 of this series. After Malone was able to seize control of the pick from Flyers defenseman Derian Hatcher, he fed Malkin for the easy tap-in.

“This is what you play hockey for,” Malone said. “I think everybody dreamt about it as a hockey player. To get a chance now to battle for the best prize there is, it’s going to be fun. I think we’re all excited to get going.”

Hossa extended Pittsburgh’s lead with his ninth goal of the playoffs 8:24 into the second period. With the teams at even strength, Hossa took a pass from the corner by Crosby and one-timed a laser past Biron to make it 3-0.

Hard to believe that it was only three months ago when the soon-to-be free agent was skating for a struggling Atlanta squad.

“Sometimes, it takes time to adjust, and it took me a little bit,” Hossa said. “Right now, I feel like I’m at home. I’m just happy to be here.”

Malone tallied his second goal of the game less than four minutes later via the power play. Fourteen seconds after Jeff Carter went off for tripping, Malone parked himself in front of the net and redirected Sergei Gonchar’s wrist shot from the point past Biron as the Pens went up, 4-0. Jordan Staal sent the Flyers reeling towards the dressing room when he made it a five-goal game with just under a minute to play in the second.

“We got a great start and we didn’t let our foot off the gas,” said Crosby, who had two assists and was a plus-2. “We made sure that we kept coming. Everyone contributed and everyone bought into what we had to do. It’s a great game for us.”

The Penguins held the Flyers to eight shots in the third period and took a 6-0 lead at 4:03, when Pascal Dupuis – who arrived in the same deal as Hossa – redirected the latter’s shot past Biron for his second goal of the playoffs.

Philadelphia finished 0-for-4 on the power play and experienced a tremendous amount of difficulty generating quality chances against Fleury, who improved to 12-2 this postseason.

“I don't think you can put too much weight into one game,” Flyers coach John Stevens said. “I think we're going to look at our season as a whole, have a really good evaluation of the things we did well and the areas we need to get better. And this one game to me is going to have very little to do with that overall evaluation.”

Mike Richards – who had seven goals and seven assists this postseason and is one of the team’s leaders despite his young age (23), was proud of the way his team performed in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Philadelphia finished with the worst record in the NHL a season ago.

“Through all the adversity and the highs and lows, it’s great to see that we can get through some of the adversity we had thrown our way,” Richards said. “I had one of the funnest years I had, just being around the guys. I wouldn’t trade it. I’m extremely happy with the team.”

Just as Malone is happy with his. Sixteen years after watching his favorite team win its second straight Stanley Cup, Malone is now playing a huge role in the chase for that elusive third championship.

Malone remembers playing for the 2003-04 Penguins, who finished in the Atlantic Division basement with a record of 23-47-12. Dick Tarnstrom was the team’s leading scorer with 52 points. How times have changed.

“Four years ago where we were … the fans have been patient,” Malone said. “We realize we have a tough test in front of us still. Our goal wasn’t to get here – our goal was to get the whole thing done. So far, so good.”

Article: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?service=page&page=Recap&gameNumber=315&season=20072008&gameType=3

A Legend is Born

Good, Bad, and UGLY

By tluke53, A Pens Guru

Good

MAF - He was tremendous in this game. Those quick legs made key saves that helped to demoralize the Flyers and take them off their game.

Staal - Another strong game by Jordan Staal. I believe that he has 6 goals in the playoffs. Next year could be a breakout season for him.

Malone - How much difference does he make in front of the net? Even when he does not receive credit for a goal or an assist his big body obstructing the goalie is often responsible for goals. His role is going to be impossible to replace next year from within.

Hossa - Player of the game. He was everywhere.

Crosby/Malkin - Same as usual great and probably not getting enough credit.

Bad

NOTHING

Ugly

NOTHING

I CAN'T BELIEVE IT. WE ARE NOW PLAYING FOR THE CUP!

Game 5 HIGHLIGHTS

Improving the Game of Hockey

2008-05-17T22:56:00.008-04:00

My Take

1. Bigger Nets

Goalie Equipment Before

Goalie Equipment After

As of right now the current net is at six feet wide to four feet high. I'd add an inch to the height of the net and add two inches to the width of the net. Goalies/equipment has gotten much bigger over the years Goalies have become more flexible over the years. Some goalies (especially Europeans) can stretch so far that they can reach both goal posts with ease. Goalies have improved so much that I think a small increase in the net size is needed. When the first nets were established goalies were almost like stick figures. They wore little goalie equipment and the goalies themselves were smaller. This made the net look much bigger to players and there were many openings for the puck to get through. Now the Goalies look like sumo wrestlers and the puck has less of chance of getting into the goal due to the many factors already explained in this post.

EM Swift, SI.com had a great column about this very issue. He wrote the following,

"It's not just that scoring is down. The league is averaging 5.8 goals per game, including overtime, this season. That's down from 6.1 last season and way below the seven-plus average from the late 1970s through the early '90s -- before teams even played overtime.

The bigger concern is that certain types of scoring attempts have all but disappeared. The booming slapshots from a wing breaking across the blue line, which popularized hockey and made Bobby Hull a matinee idol in the 1960s; the sniper blast from the sideboards of the kind that made Guy Lafleur, Mike Bossy and Mike Gartner so deadly."When I was growing up, I saw a lot of goals scored by guys going down the wing, slap shots to the far corner," says Calgary's Jarome Iginla, a member of the NHL's competition committee. "Those were exciting to see. The bigger nets would give you more chance to have those goals." (Swift)

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/em_swift/01/16/bigger.goals/index.html

“Goalies have to get smaller or the nets have to get larger,” Darcy Regier (Sabres GM) said.

The NHL needs to increase the size of the NHL net in order to produce more scoring.

2. Remove the Instigator Penalty

Rule #56

An instigator of an altercation shall be a player who by his actions or demeanor demonstrates any/some of the following criteria: distance traveled; gloves off first; first punch thrown; menacing attitude or posture; verbal instigation or threats; conduct in retaliation to a prior game (or season) incident; obvious retribution for a previous incident in the game or season.

The aggressor in an altercation shall be the player who continues to throw punches in an attempt to inflict punishment on his opponent who is in a defenseless position or who is an unwilling combatant. A player must be deemed the aggressor when he continues throwing and landing punches in a further attempt to inflict punishment and/or injury on his opponent who is no longer in a position to defend himself.

An altercation is a situation involving two players, with at least one to be penalized.

http://www.nhl.com/rules/rule56.html

It's pretty self explanitory and teams are already wanting this to happen according to Eric Lindros.

From HockeyFights.com

Eric Lindros, newly appointed NHLPA ombudsman, said the NHLPA has visited four teams so far in their fall tour. Addressing a question about concussions and what can be done about them from Ron McLean on Hockey Night in Canada: Hockey Tonight, Lindros mentioned equipment and respect. Lindros said all four teams mentioned getting rid of the instigator rule as a way to increase respect for other players on the ice.

Link to Article: http://www.hockeyfights.com/quickhits/qh/entry/players-remove-instigator-up-respect/

3. Penalty to players who dive to block shots or passes, or to knock the puck off a stick.

By someone, Article is MIA (Missing in Action):

“If I’m standing up, I can’t trip you,” Regier said. “But we have rules in which if you’re skating down the ice and I make a desperate dive and I knock the puck away from your stick first and I happen to trip you in the process, that’s not a penalty. I don’t know how that came about. It doesn’t make any sense to me. If I trip you, I trip you, whether I’m laying on the ice or standing up.

“It’s so easy to go down and slide [to block a shot or pass], and the skill that you have to have developed to overcome nothing more than a slide is enormous. You have to have great hands, great puck control, great passing skills to put the puck over the top of that defender.

I call this a penalty......

4. Change Delay of Game penalties from a 2 minute minor to a 1 minute minor.

A two minute penalty for shooting the puck over the glass in your defensive zone is kind of lame. A two minute penalty isn't deserved for a player who unintentionally commited a crime by shooting the puck over the glass. I'd Change it to a 1 minute penalty because it isn't worthy of 2 minutes but isn't worthy of no call either so the best thing to do would make "Delay of Game" is a one minute minor penalty.

5. Let Skaters in Shootout to go without their helmet

Self explanatory. I think it's kind of cool but the change wouldn't improve the sport.

By Tim Cowlishaw, Dallas Morning News

In the Sixties and Seventies, we could easily identify Bobby Hull, Jean Beliveau, the flowing locks of Guy LaFleur. Then safety reared its ugly head, and now we have no idea what these players look like. Most of the regular-season highlights we see of the NHL are from shootouts. Let's see the players. Women will like this one.

Link: Not Available

6. Bring Back an Improved FoxTrax

Not this (Old FoxTrax System).....

From Wikipedia,

FoxTrax (colloquially called the glow puck, smart puck, laser puck, Fox Puck, or super puck) was a specialized ice hockey puck with internal electronics that allowed its position to be tracked designed for NHL telecasts on the Fox television network. Primarily, it was used to visually highlight the puck on-screen and display a trail when the puck was moving rapidly.

But Something Like This.....

As of right now Versus is exploring ways to improve the FoxTrax system. I propose that they do something like shown in the above video. In NHL video games the puck has something like a spot shadow under the puck. This shadow makes the puck appear to be larger making it easier to follow. If VS. able to create something to this effect it will bring in many new fans who had problems following the puck.

Tim Cowlishaw's View on Improving the NHL

1: Put microphones on all coaches and captains for all games. One of the things that the millions of fans that flock to NASCAR races each year really enjoy is the ability to hear every word exchanged between Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his crew chief, Tony Eury Jr.

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The scanner technology is there to let every fan in the seats eavesdrop on what's being said. We don't want lame interviews conducted by bench reporters. We want to hear the real thing, and if we're paying $100 a ticket, we deserve it.
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My View: It is absolutely pointless. The microphone is annoying for the players to wear. Sidney Crosby has taken his mike off in the middle of the game because it was nuisance. It wouldn't improve my experience at the game.

2: Start the season a month later. The Stanley Cup Finals should be starting when the NBA Finals are ending. For two weeks, you get the closest thing you're ever going to get to undivided attention.

The technology is good enough to make ice playable in late June. Starting the season a month before the NBA in the heart of college and pro football season does nothing for the NHL.

My View: We're in agreement.

3: Convince the selfish Eastern Conference general managers to act in the best interests of the game and change the schedule. This was voted on and rejected a few months ago. But Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby, moving into the prime of what's going to be a fantastic career, needs to play a game in Dallas and Los Angeles and Chicago every year. Not once every three years.
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My View: It would matter how the schedule is formatted. More games versus the Western Confernce would help the NHL but playing every team in the Western Conference is way too much.

4: Kiss up to ESPN. Make amends. There's still enough room for programming at the world-wide leader to get your games back there. Versus gives the NHL no presence at all. The studio show has Bill Clement, a great analyst, in the misguided role of host.
-

Get back to ESPN – even if it's ESPN2 – and get your highlights back on SportsCenter.

My View: Have the NHL on VS. and ESPN. I'd like to see it on both networks.

5: Let the skaters in shootouts go without their helmets. In the Sixties and Seventies, we could easily identify Bobby Hull, Jean Beliveau, the flowing locks of Guy LaFleur.

Then safety reared its ugly head, and now we have no idea what these players look like. Most of the regular-season highlights we see of the NHL are from shootouts. Let's see the players. Women will like this one.
-

My View: I already mentioned it and I like it.

6: Eliminate the ability to ice the puck during penalty killing. You can't do it 5-on-5 but you can

do it when you're being penalized? Montreal GM Bob Gainey never really thought that made sense and he's right.

-
If they ice it, bring back the puck back for the face-off and the penalty killers have to stay on the ice.

What that would do is increase scoring from the game's best players, make power plays more powerful and cut down on penalties which would increase the flow of the game. All of those are good things.
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My View: Not sure, I'd have to see the rule implemented in a game inorder to have an opinion.

7: Adopt the 2-3-2 travel format for all series. Commissioner David Stern did it for the NBA Finals after the 1984 season to ease the travel for newspapers. Those Boston-to-Los Angeles-to-Boston-to Los Angeles-to Boston trips were hard on the budget, not to mention hangovers.

Do it for all series. Increase (even by a fraction) news media coverage of the playoffs. It can't hurt.

My View: Hate it. The current system gives the higher seeds a better chance to win the series making the regular season more important.

8: Adopt the shootout after 40 minutes of playoff overtime hockey. Once you get past that point, the hockey gets ugly. Fans need to know that if they stick around until a little after midnight, they are going to see a winner. Networks need to know that, too. They aren't making any money with those long ad-less overtimes.
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I would keep unlimited overtime for any game that could decide the Cup Finals.
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My View: Agree, OT becomes way too long and boring when no one scores.

9: Move the U.S. league office to Atlanta. Being in New York, the NHL can at least pretend it's a big deal. Bettman and other league officials need to walk the streets of Atlanta or, I don't care, Raleigh or Nashville and learn that nobody knows who they are. It will help them figure out what they have done to the game.
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My View: ROFL, this is stupid.

10: Contract to 26 teams. Arrive at a formula based on revenue, attendance, won-lost record and local ratings. The two worst performing teams are dropped and their players are dispersed after next season. Two more go a year later.
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Now you have fewer and better teams and you get to see the stars more often and you increase your chances of making the playoffs. Those are good things.
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Someone should let Bettman know how his grand plan of "expanding the league's footprint" has really gone.

My View: It will never happen so why talk about it.

Article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/hockey/stars/stories/060607dnspocowlishaw.2cb3128.html

Latest NEWS -- 5/17/08 - Nightime Edition

2008-05-17T18:49:00.004-04:00

Gary Roberts May Play Tomorrow

*Kudos to The Sidney Crosby Show*

By Shelly Anderson, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Penguins winger Gary Roberts, who has been battling pneumonia, practiced with the team today and said he could be ready to play tomorrow against Philadelphia in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference final.

Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08138/882810-100.stm

By Paul, KuklasKorner.com

Q. How did Gary Roberts feel after practice today?

COACH THERRIEN: He felt pretty good we’ll see tomorrow.

Q. Think he’ll play tomorrow?

COACH THERRIEN: We’ll see tomorrow.

Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/coach_therrien_today/

Malkin and Sykora Miss Practice

By Kevin Gorman, Pittsburgh Tribune Review

Penguins center Evgeni Malkin and right wing Petr Sykora, both out sick, did not skate today at the RMU Island Sports Center.

Both are expected to play against the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Eastern Conference final Sunday at Mellon Arena.

In their absence, Kris Beech and Jeff Taffe skated with Ryan Malone on the second line.

Article: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/breaking/s_568050.html

By Paul, KuklasKorner.com

Q. I guess is there any concern about Malkin and Sykora for tomorrow?

COACH THERRIEN: They should be ready for tomorrow. They should be there.

Q. Is it just a sickness?

COACH THERRIEN: A sickness. And we believe at this time of year rest sometimes can be more important than practice, and they should be there tomorrow.

Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/coach_therrien_today/

Q&A with Michel Therrien

By Paul, KuklasKorner.com

Q. How important is home ice advantage throughout the playoffs for you guys?

COACH THERRIEN: Home ice is huge. And you work really hard through the course of the season to get home ice. We felt comfortable in that building. We like to play in front of our fans. Our fans have been great, and we’ve got their support. And that’s why we’re glad that Game 5 is going to be home. We’re glad that we have home ice advantage, because we’re a tough team to play in our building.

Q. What do your guys have to do to avoid playing the kind of game that Philly likes to play, as they did for a period or so?

COACH THERRIEN: Well, they played really well in the first period. They were desperate. And we had a hard time in that first period to match that desperation. But I believe in the second and third we started to play the way we’re capable of playing, and we’re going to need to bring that to the next game.

We’ve got momentum, especially in the third period. We could have tied the game. We got some great chances. Biron was good, obviously. So we’ll try to bring the momentum that we got especially in the third period to the start of tomorrow’s game.

Q. Timonen and Coburn, if they come back does that have much impact?

COACH THERRIEN: We focus on our team, how we’re supposed to play. Timonen is a good, obviously, he’s a good defenseman for them. But when we played Ottawa we had a similar thing. They got Alfredsson back in the lineup and it brings some energy.

But it’s demanding for players. Especially when you’re missing so long, you lose your game shape. This is playoff hockey and a playoff game. They’re demanding.

But, for us, Timonen is going to have to be ready to play a playoff hockey game. In the meantime, it’s not about them, it’s about us. And we’re going to play, and we’re going to focus on the way we’re supposed to play.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/coach_therrien_today/

Timonen Will Play; Coburn Might Play

From CBC.com

TIMONEN IS BACK

The Flyers will have Kimmo Timonen (blood clot) back for Game 5. He has full medical clearance to play and he says he is ready.

“I’m ready to go,” he said, coming off the ice today at practice. Later he said, “I hope to be on the ice. I got to trust the doctors that there is no risk at all if I play. The symptoms won’t be gone, they will be the same but it felt pretty good today at practice and that’s why I’m pretty confident I’m ready to go. I talked to is the doctors and our trainers in the last [week]. I just want to make sure there is no risk of me going out there and then something bad happens. I don't want that to happen."

COBURN IS IFFY

Braydon Coburn still has some depth perception issues in his left eye. He may or may not have some concussion symptoms, such as a headache. There have been some hints at such, but Coburn hasn’t been specific. He took a deflected puck to the eye in Game 2 and has not played since. Yet he does expect to suit up tomorrow. “There’s a good chance [I’ll play],” he said. “Everything felt pretty good [at practice]. I felt like I've been off the ice for a couple of days. Wearing the visor is a little bit of an adjustment as well. But it's something I'm going to have to do right now.”

COACH JOHN STEVENS SAYS

Asked what it would mean to his club if both Timonen and Coburn were on the ice for Game 5, he replied, “They're a big part of our team all year, but I think that's true of all the guys. It's great to have these guys being able to be around. But Kimmo's an elite player in the league. He's not just a great player, he's one of our leaders. To lose a guy like that, they're not easily replaced.
"You need a lot extra from everybody in your lineup just to try to close the gap that was left behind when he was out. Cobe's a big guy, plays in all situations, creates speed, good defender. And Kimmo plays in every situation that there is in the hockey game. So to get one or both back would be a great lift for us in a lot of ways.”

Article: http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/hnicplayoff/2008/05/timonen.html

Game 5 on NBC

Sergei Gonchar

2008-05-17T16:13:00.004-04:00

After a disappointing game 4 against the Flyers for the Pens in which they took a 4-2 loss. The unfortunate player to be reviewed after a bad game for the Pens is that of the Penguins key defender Sergei Gonchar.

After a great regular season in which he was second in points for a defence man behind Lidstrom of the Detroit Red Wings. He was also leading point scorer in the Eastern Conference on the Powerplay. So overall a great season for him. The playoffs thus far have been good for him as well, but not on a attacking front for a change but a defensive one. He has been instrumental in the Pens success this season in the playoffs. That was clearly shown in Game 3 when he made probably one of the best defensive plays you will ever see (shown below)

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Game 4 however was for much a different prospect as Gonchar didn't really have is best game in a Pens jersey. Spending time in the box early for a silly penalty which helped shift the momentum in the direction of the Flyers as they raced to a 3 goal lead in the 1st period. His defensive play after that was a little slack although the Pens as a whole managed to tighten up. His offensive play didn't really come into action until the third period where he was trying to get the Pens first goal and getting it tied in the dying minutes in which he began to look more like a threat to the Flyers having a few shots blocked. It will not be a game Gonchar will remember as it wasn't his strongest and although he looked a little frail i am sure he will bounce back in Game 5 on Sunday.

Thanks for reading the blog please feel free to leave any comments. The next player under the microscope will be Kris Letang for Game 5 if i can watch the Game, due to early start i may be busy. Otherwise it will be the Game after that.

Latest News -- 5/17/08

2008-05-17T09:33:00.005-04:00

Geno is Down

By Bob Smizik, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

What had been the team's best line -- Evgeni Malkin, Ryan Malone and Petr Sykora -- has gone absent. Without the Malkin line performing at or near its highest capability, the Penguins have no skill advantage. After all, what kind of advantage does a supposed skill line give a team when it has scored one goal and three assists in the past three games?

This is the same line that carried the team in the latter stages of the regular season and through the first 10 games of the playoffs.

Seems hard to believe that about a week ago Malkin was being talked about as possibly the best player in the game. He was mentioned frequently as a leading candidate for the Conn Smythe Trophy, which goes to the MVP of the playoffs. While Sidney Crosby struggled to score, Malkin was a goal-scoring machine.

But look what he has done lately. His only point in the past three games was the second assist on Malone's score that gave the Penguins a two-goal lead midway through the third period of Game 3. He has managed only seven shots on goal in those three games, compared to 10 in the final game against the New York Rangers. He has been charged with eight giveaways.

There's no Conn Smythe candidacy in those numbers.

"He hasn't been productive like he was in the past," said coach Michel Therrien in a conference call with the media yesterday. "He's going to have to find a way next game to make sure he's going to be productive like he [was] at the playoffs start."

Malkin had two goals against Ottawa, four against New York and two in the first game against Philadelphia.

It was suggested to Therrien that perhaps Malkin was tired. He wore down in the playoffs last year, failing to score a goal in five games against Ottawa, and now, in the third round, he is involved in an even longer season.

Therrien didn't buy it.

"Yes, it is a long season. He had been through that last year. I think he's got more experience this year to play through the schedule that we're facing in the NHL, plus the playoffs. I could understand fatigue would be a factor if we would have played seven games in every round. I think we've had some quality time for rest. And because of the amount of games that we played in the playoffs, I don't think fatigue is a factor."

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08138/882688-61.stm

MT Admits he Made a Mistake

By Dave Molinari, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

It was, coach Michel Therrien said, a mistake that led to Sidney Crosby being on the ice in the waning seconds of the Penguins' 4-2 loss in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference final at Philadelphia Thursday night.

Not by Therrien for sending him out, but by the referees for passing along faulty information that prompted Therrien to deploy Crosby even after the Flyers had scored an empty-net goal.
Therrien said yesterday that, in the wake of a skirmish between Penguins winger Ryan Malone and Philadelphia defenseman Derian Hatcher at 19:37 of the third period, the officials told him the Penguins were going to have a 5-on-3 power play.

Add an extra skater who would replace goalie Marc-Andre Fleury to a two-man advantage, Therrien said, and he believed the Penguins had an outside chance to force overtime, so Crosby got the call.

"On a five-on-three, you pull your goalie with 30 [sic] seconds left, and you could have a chance to go 6-on-3," he said. "And we're still feeling that, with a good rush, in 10 seconds we could have scored a goal, and you're still hoping.

"When all the players were on the ice [for the resumption of play, a ref] came to the bench and told us [the Flyers] don't have two minors. They've got one minor. All the players were [on the ice] already. So that was a bad communication from the referee to the bench. They changed their mind."

Twelve seconds after the game resumed, Crosby scuffled with Flyers center Mike Richards, and both were assessed minors for slashing and roughing. During a news conference yesterday, Richards explained their run-in this way, according to a transcript provided by the NHL:

"I was just trying to go through with the puck. I think that he was thinking I was trying to slash his ankles, but, whatever [laughing]. ... I don't think you can frustrate Sid too much.

"He's such a skilled player, and he's so used to getting picked on, I guess, [by] people going after him, physically and verbally.

"So you're not going to frustrate him too much."

Link to Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08138/882685-61.stm

Video: MT's Mistake

Pens Fans Buy Stanley Cup Tickets in Detroit

By Greg Wyshynski, Sports.Yahoo.com

When tickets to a Stanley Cup Playoff series that may involve their team go on sale, Pittsburgh Penguins fans are going to know about it. Please recall the 2000 postseason, when the threat of a Pens fan invasion in D.C. forced Washington owner Ted Leonsis to implement a plan that prevented them from purchasing tickets online for Capitals' playoff home games.

On Wednesday, the Detroit Red Wings began a presale for Stanley Cup Finals tickets that required a special code. And guess who just happened to discover that code: The good folks of the LetsGoPens.com boards, who began crowing about the quality tickets they were scoring for Finals games in Detroit. Well, at least with all of these Penguins fans filling seats at the Joe, Mitch Albom won't have anything to complain about.

Link to Article: http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/nhl_experts/post/Penguins-fans-snatch-up-Stanley-Cup-Finals-tix-i?urn=nhl,82957

Pittsburgh is a Hockeytown, High TV Ratings

By Barry Horn, The Dallas Morning News

This afternoon's Game 5 of the Dallas Stars-Red Wings series marks the first and last time everyone in Dallas-Fort Worth should have TV access to the Western Conference finals. The 12:30 p.m. start will be available on NBC (Channel 5).

Surely more viewers will tune in to the game than have bothered to find the first four on cable.
Should the Stars, who trail 3-1, manage to extend the best-of-7 series, the Stars and Red Wings return to Versus for the remaining games. For whatever reason, Versus has proved a vast wasteland locally.

The D-FW market has averaged a 1.8 rating for the Red Wings series in the wake of the Stars' march through Anaheim and San Jose. That translates to 43,841 homes. That's worse than awful.

The most positive spin on the ratings is their incremental game-to-game improvement – 1.1, 1.3, 2.3, 2.5.

Now let's compare. In Detroit, where some homes have access to the Canadian broadcasts, the series has averaged a relatively healthy 9.6 rating (184,848 homes) on Versus.

And in the Eastern Conference home markets, Philadelphia is averaging an 8.3 (244,020 homes). In Pittsburgh, which should be known as Hockeytown USA, the Penguins-Flyers series is averaging a 20.2 rating (233,956 homes) on Versus.

Let's translate. In D-FW, 1.8 percent of all homes with televisions have shown interest in the series. In Pittsburgh, it's 20.2 percent.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/columnists/bhorn/stories/051708dnspohorn.2ef524a.html

Video: Flyers Fans Still Have Hope

*Swear Words in this Video*

Latest NEWS -- 5/16/08

2008-05-16T16:10:00.004-04:00

Timonen will Play

By Eklund From Hockeybuzz.com,

Timonen spoke to reporters and told them he is out of danger, will skate today and likely play game 5. Various Flyers players also are telling me that Timonen will be in the line-up.

Prior to last night's game Timonen asked to speak to his teammates because he felt the team was too uptight. Not sure that he told him that he was going to be back or not for game 5 if they won...In all likelihood the Flyers kept this super quiet so as not to give the Pens an extra motivation to wrap it up.

Link to Article: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=15335

Q&A with MT

By Alanah from KuklasKorner.com,

Q. The first two rounds, both the Senators and Rangers kind of complained about the officiating going towards the Penguins, and Stevens did the same thing early in this series. Do you feel kind of a backlash that maybe you’re not getting some of the calls that you would have been getting on the first two series because of that?

COACH THERRIEN: Well, I don’t know. It’s tough for me to say. The one thing I know, since the Flyers complained after Game 2 that they spent time in the penalty box. And it seems that since then they’re really disciplined. We only had two power plays a game. And that’s all I could say. That, yes, they’re disciplined. We’re having a hard time with our speed to be able to draw a penalty.
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Q. Is that affecting your game plans at all? Or affecting your team that they’re not getting some of the of calls that they have come to expect to get?

COACH THERRIEN: Well, you know what, we’re not going to change our game plan. We’re going to use our speed. I think speed is important to this game. It’s just we try to sell the game with speed. We try to sell the game with the offense. Even if you have to play really well defensively, and it’s just we try to do it with our club.
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We’re not going to change our game plan. We’ve still got to move. We’ve got to be really quick. Because speed usually brings scoring chances. Speed, usually, it’s tough to contain speed. And there are times that the other team has no choice to get obstruction, to get hooks and hopefully we’ll get some calls eventually. We’re not going to change our game plan, we’re going to use a lot of speed.

Q. Sort of a follow‑up, I’m wondering if you had a chance to take a look at the Jones hit on Malkin midway through the second period last night, hit from behind, behind the net. Just wondered if you had seen it and what your thoughts were on that?
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COACH THERRIEN: Honestly, I didn’t look at the tapes so far. So I’m going to work on it tonight, and I have to make sure the teams are prepared tomorrow for the practice. So I wouldn’t make any comment, sorry.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/interview_with_coach_therrien/

5 Things we've Learned

By Scott Burnside from ESPN,com,

Five things we've learned from Thursday:

1. Philadelphia coach John Stevens has raised the possibility that his two top defensemen, Braydon Coburn and Kimmo Timonen, missing for most of the series, could make a return at some point.

"Well, we won't know until each day ... but is there a chance? I think there is, either or both," Stevens said after Thursday's Game 4. "The first thing is you have to make sure of is the health of the player here, and we're not going to put anybody at risk. If they're not able to go, we'll keep marching ahead like we are. But if we're able to get one or both back, it would be a huge lift for our team."
-

It was thought that Timonen would be lost for the balance of the season with a blood clot in his ankle, while Coburn took a Hal Gill shot to the face early in Game 1 and hasn't felt well enough to play. The return of one, or both, of the skilled rearguards would be a huge boost to a Flyers team that has struggled to move the puck through the neutral zone.

2. On the Penguins' side of the infirmary, veteran forward Gary Roberts remained out of the lineup for Game 4 with what the Penguins were calling a mild case of pneumonia.
-

"He's still sick. He's got pneumonia," Penguins coach Michel Therrien said before Game 4. "It's a mild case, so he's listed day to day. He's not going to play tonight."

Asked if Roberts was expected back later in the postseason, Therrien was noncommittal. "Yes, yes, hopefully. He's on medication right now, and we'll go from there."

3. Pittsburgh center Jordan Staal returned to the lineup after spending all day Wednesday jetting to and from his grandfather's funeral in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and scored twice in a losing cause. Landlord and former teammate Mark Recchi helped arrange a charter jet so Staal could be with his grieving family and return for Game 4.
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"He's an unbelievable guy," said Staal, who still lives at the Recchi family compound in Pittsburgh after Recchi was traded to Atlanta. "He helped me out so much throughout my career, such a great friend to me. He and his family have been unbelievable."

The visit home was difficult. "I don't know if you lost anyone close, but it wasn't easy," Staal said. "My opa was real close to my whole family, especially all his grandchildren. He's an amazing man and I miss him."
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4. Midway through the second period of Game 4, Philadelphia defenseman Randy Jones drilled Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin headfirst into the boards behind the Flyers net. Malkin jumped right up and continued his shift, but we're wondering how a play like that goes unpenalized? This is the same Randy Jones, by the way, that ended Boston star Patrice Bergeron's season early in the campaign with a hit from behind that wasn't all that much different from what we saw Thursday night in Philadelphia.

5. Both coaches went to a different look with their line combinations Thursday and both were successful. Stevens moved Mike Richards onto a line with Daniel Briere and Scott Hartnell, dropping Vaclav Prospal back to a line with R.J. Umberger and Joffrey Lupul. Lupul scored the Flyers' first goal. Therrien, meanwhile, moved Max Talbot onto the wing with Staal and Tyler Kennedy. The line scored both Penguins goals in the third period with each linemate recording two points.

Article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2008/columns/story?columnist=burnside_scott&id=3399509

Video: PHILLY SUCKS!!

Yes Michel Therrien is a Good Coach!

2008-05-14T20:32:00.004-04:00

I was strolling through the message boards today and noticed that Michel Therrien’s coaching is a hot topic. I just want to say that MT has done a good job for this team since the day he set foot in Pittsburgh.

Right from the onset he took a struggling team with no system and led them to a noticeable improvement.
In his first full season with the team, he took a bunch of young and talented players with limited professional experience to their first ever playoff appearance.
Earlier in the year when the PK was struggling a lot of people here and in the media thought he should be using his star players more frequently to kill penalties. Instead, he stuck with his third and fourth liners. They have gotten better and now we can keep our star's fresh for 5 on 5 play. That is a competitive advantage over many other teams.
MAF is playing his best hockey, yet some still insist that MT has somehow handled him incorrectly? How can you come to that conclusion based on his playoff performance?
Brooks Orpik has played great physical defense ever since he got moved to wing. Remember who made that decision?
Many people including myself complained about Jordan Staal's uninspired play early this season. Some thought he should be moved to wing. Now look at him. He is our shutdown center and continues to be a key penalty killer.

Michel Therrien has taken a great set of players assembled by Craig Patrick and Ray Shero and molded them into a team on the verge of making it’s first appearance in the Stanley Cup finals. Coaching isn't just about the short term. It's also about the long term. Therrien didn't just turn into a good coach in the playoffs. He was a good coach the minute he arrived in Pittsburgh.

Evgeni Malkin

2008-05-14T19:23:00.007-04:00

So game 3 is over and the Pens lead the series 3-0. Now onto the next review in the series, that of Penguins superstar Evgeni Malkin.

After a great first season in which he won the Calder Trophy, even though he seemed to run out of gas towards the end of the season. This season he has come on leaps and bounds since Sidney Crosby was injured with a high ankle sprain. He managed to take the team through this by tearing up the points table and his goals tally second to only Ovechkin in the points race.

After a strong start to this playoff campaign in which he has 18 points thus far and was looking very formidable until game 2 vs the Flyers where he seemed to have a quiet game recording 0 points. The same can be said for game 3 in which he got one assist on the Malone goal. In the game Malkin seemed a little more active than game 2. The point that lies is he wasn't really as productive as he can be, what is this down to? It could be a many factors, maybe his tank is all out, or the Flyers have managed to control him and know what to do to him. I think it is a combination of both mainly the latter. Sid is once again looking like his old self as i mentioned in a previous blog, the Malkin threat has been subdued for the time being. The problem the Flyers now have is they will have to be careful as Malkin being such a skilled player who can make something out of nothing, and that fact still remains however bad he plays he can do one thing to change a game. Although i thought his play in game 3 was better than 2 it still wasn't much to write about and i think the kid needs a rest so a sweep of the Flyers may be a good thing. Also he is still not use to such a long season especially when he has carried them most of the way, it can strain you mentally.

I see another quiet game for Gino but expect him to come out all guns blazing in the Stanley cup finals. "Form is temporary, class is permanent" that is the fact we all have to remember.

Thanks for reading please leave any comments.

The next blog will be on Sergei Gonchar. If anyone wishes for me to do someone else please email me with suggestions at Britishpensfan@pensunderground.com Maybe the next one can be a readers choice.

Detroit SCF Tickets on Sale NOW

2008-05-14T15:43:00.007-04:00

BUY THEM UP PENS FANS

Presale, BUY THEM NOW!: http://www.ticketmaster.com/promo/1asedr

Presale Code: 08SCUPSTH

Updated Schedule according to WDVE

If both Detroit and Pittsburgh Sweep:

Game 1-Next Tuesday

Game 2-Next Thursday

Game 3-Next Saturday

Game 4-Memorial Day

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If either Detroit or Pittsburgh goes to game 5

Game 1-Next Thursday

Game 2-Next Saturday

Game 3-Memorial Day

Game 4-May 28

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If either Detroit or Pittsburgh go to game 6

Game 1- Next Saturday

Game 2-Memorial Day

Game 3-May 28

Game 4-May 30

Thanks to SID87GENO71 from the big board!

One WIN AWAY

2008-05-14T15:16:00.006-04:00

Stupidity at its BEST

Red Wings vs. Penguins Preview

By Spector from Foxsports.com,

Poised to sweep their respective conference finals, the Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins have established themselves as the dominant clubs in this year's playoffs.

The Red Wings have gone 11-2, with their only losses coming in the first round against the Nashville Predators.

The Penguins stand at 11-1, the sole loss coming in the second round against the Rangers.

This shouldn't come as a surprise as the Red Wings were first overall in the NHL and the Penguins finished second overall in the Eastern Conference. Yet at season's end, some observers doubted if the two clubs had what it took to make it this far.

Rest of the Article: http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/8137796/Penguins,-Wings-look-poised-for-fine-Finals

Its all OVER!!!

By Phil Sheridan of Philadelphia Inquirer,

The Flyers asked the question 20,000 times on the 20,000 orange T-shirts they gave their fans last night.

The Pittsburgh Penguins answered it just once.

“Why not us?”

Because the Penguins are better.

The Flyers’ season is not over, of course. But after falling behind three games to none, the outcome of this best-of-seven series is no longer in doubt. Miracles happen. Four miracles in a row do not, at least not against these Penguins.

Rest of the Article: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/flyers/20080514_Phil_Sheridan__Team_knows_how_far_it_has_come_and_how_far_it_still_has_to_go.html

RECAPS

The Sidney Crosby Show: http://sidcrosby.blogspot.com/2008/05/round-3-game-3-pens-v-flyers-w-4-1.html

Empty Netters: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08134/881499-383.stm

Highlights

NHL.com Frozen Moment

Scottie Upshall of the Philadelphia Flyers goes head over heels against Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period of Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2008 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Wachovia Center on May 13, 2008 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Site: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?fmid=1939&page=FrozenMoments&service=page

Roberts OUT?, Pens TV Ratings, and other stuff

2008-05-13T15:14:00.003-04:00

Scary Gary OUT? Parent to Replace Coburn.

By Dave Molinari and Shelly Anderson From Pittsburgh Post-Gazette,

Penguins left winger Gary Roberts is questionable for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final against Philadelphia tonight because of illness, and Flyers defenseman Braydon Coburn has been ruled out because of an eye injury.

Roberts did not participate in the game-day skate at the Wachovia Center this morning. Adam Hall is Roberts' likely replacement.

Coburn's left eye is still swollen shut. He was hit in the face by the puck early in Game 2. It opened a cut that runs above the eye, down and across the bridge of his nose, requiring dozens of stitches to close and causing extensive bruising.

Ryan Parent will take his place in the lineup.

The Flyers, down 2-0, in the best-of-seven series, already are without top defenseman Kimmo Timonen, who has a blood clot in an ankle.

Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08134/881420-61.stm

TV Ratings are Through the ROOF!

By Steve From KuklasKorner,

Versus drew a record 1.7 rating for Sunday night’s Pens-Flyers game, to the tune of 2.3 Million viewers. I’d like to take you a little deeper with some of these numbers, to show you how impressive the NHL’s “drawing power” was on the network no one can seem to find on Sunday night.

-VERSUS was the #1 cable network among total viewers , Men 18-34, and Men 18-49 for it’s time period.
-The game drew a 9.4 in Philadelphia, and a whopping 22.3 in Pittsburgh, the largest in either market for any NHL game in those cities. VERSUS was the #1 TV network in Pittsburgh Sunday night, counting both cable and broadcast. The game was #2 in Philly among all networks.
-The telecast was the second highest-rated, and second most-watched telecast in VERSUS/OLN history. Only Lance Armstrong’s 2005 Tour de France victory drew higher numbers.
-It was the most-watched hockey telecast in network history, beating out Game 4 of this year’s Rangers/Penguins series.
-It was the most-watched Conference Final in network history, beating out the 1.1 for Game 7 of the 2006 Buffalo/Carolina series.

Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/media/comments/going_deeper_on_the_versus_ratings/

Q&A w/ MT

By Paul From KuklasKorner,

Q. A couple of off‑ice issues. Gary Roberts, how is he feeling? Is there a chance he might play? And Jordan Staal getting some unfortunate news. How do you keep him focused for tonight’s game?

COACH THERRIEN: First of all, Gary will take a decision tonight. He’s sick this morning when he came to report to the team. We’ll see how he’s going to feel before the game, and we’ll go from there.

Regarding Jordan, he’ll leave the team tomorrow morning, and he’s going to come back with the team tomorrow night.
Q. How do you keep him focused for tonight’s game or do you leave him alone?

COACH THERRIEN: This is personal. Everybody deals with those things differently. So he came to see me yesterday announcing the bad news, but he seems all right. He’s focused to play tonight, and I’m sure all of his concentration will be there for tonight’s game.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/talking_with_coach_therrien/

SCF Schedule Game 1/2

I posted the SCF schedule for game 3 - game 7. I found the schedule for game 1/2 on The Big Pens Message Board.

Kudos to Spydey 629

Game 1: TUESDAY, May 27 @ 8 on Versus

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Penguins at Red Wings

Stars at Penguins

Game 2: THURSDAY, May 29 @ 8 on Versus

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Penguins at Red Wings

Stars at Penguins

Video of the DAY

Sweden Vs. Russia Fight - Hockey VM 2008-05-10 (Both fights)

Marc Andre Fleury

2008-05-13T09:52:00.005-04:00

Sorry this post is a little late. As i said in my previous post my next player review will be about Marc Andre-Fleury.

After going down to a high ankle sprain in the game vs the Flames and Ty Conklin taking over and playing some of the best hockey of his career, things didn't look to good for Fleury. There was talk of the Pens going for a new goalie many doubted the kids ability. However after his time at WBS he has been probably the best goalie in the NHL. He bounced back in the Regular season with vigour and determination and guided the Pens to the playoffs. The big question that lay over him was could he turn into a playoff goaltender and turn round figures of 1-4 and a GAA in the 3's. Well quite simply the answer is yes he is now in the mid 1's and has a record of 10-5, 10-1 this season. All due to some great performances vs the Rangers and Senators and the first 2 games vs the Flyers.

The review is to focus Game 2 vs the Flyers. It was a typical game for Fleury who is in a rich vain of form and is playing brilliant and keeping his mind steady. The key point to all that i see is that he remains in a good position and is not getting out of position to often which forces him to dive around the crease. Sunday was tough for him mentally as he had very little to do in Period 1 which can lead to loss in concentration, but it didn't as he guided the Pens to a 30 save win. Both goals you can't deam him at fault specially the second one. It was a solid game for Fleury much like the rest of the playoff run for him.

However i will tell many of you don't get too excited, he really hasn't had a solid test for a prolonged time so there has been no real pressure on him other than Game 4 vs the Rangers and Game 5 which he came through well. I expect him to get one tonight vs the Flyers as they will be fighting for their lives. The true playoff test for Fleury will start here. The last two rounds of the Playoffs have to be honest easy for the Pens as they have out gunned the previous teams. I expect to see Fleury tested in the next game and if the Pens make it to the Finals. It is time to see Fleury's true colours and i think they are exactly as we have seen them in the previous rounds of the Playoffs. He will be just fine and pull through.

Once again thanks for reading any comments are welcome. The next player i will review will be Malkin.

Planning Ahead - SCF Schedule

2008-05-12T20:32:00.002-04:00

Stanley Cup Finals Schedule

Game 1 and 2 are not available at this time.

All games listed below will appear on NBC(HD)

Saturday, May 31, 8 p.m. ET

(Game 3)
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Red Wings at Penguins
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Penguins at Stars

Monday, June 2, 8 p.m. ET

(Game 4)

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Red Wings at Penguins
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Penguins at Stars

Wednesday, June 4, 8 p.m. ET
(Game 5 if necessary)
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Penguins at Red Wings

Stars at Penguins

Saturday, June 7, 8 p.m. ET
(Game 6 if necessary)
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Red Wings at Penguins
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Penguins at Stars

Monday, June 9, 8 p.m. ET
(Game 7 if necessary)

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Penguins at Red Wings
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Stars at Penguins

NHL.com - Frozen Moment 5/12/08

Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins looks to make a pass to teammate Ryan Malone behind the Philadelphia Flyers' net during the third period of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2008 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Mellon Arena on May 11, 2008 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

View a larger picture: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?fmid=1937&page=FrozenMoments&service=page

Coburn OUT; Eaton Returning is Unlikely

2008-05-12T18:10:00.003-04:00

Coburn OUT

Sportsent.ca -- Flyers' defenceman Brayden Coburn was hospitalized in Philadelphia Monday afternoon for further observation.

Coburn was struck in the face on a shot by Pittsburgh's Hal Gill in the Flyers' 4-2 loss in Pittsburgh Sunday night. Coburn was left with 50 stitches and is out of the Flyers' line-up indefinitely.

Coburn will be replaced in Philadelphia's line-up by Ryan Parent.

Article: http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/05/12/coburn_philadelphia/

Video: Coburn Injured

Mark Eaton's Return is Unlikely

From Dave Molinari of Pittsburgh Post-Gazette,

Penguins defenseman Mark Eaton, who is recovering from reconstructive knee surgery, is scheduled to have an MRI this week.

The results could let Eaton know whether it's realistic to believe his recovery has progressed well enough that he has a realistic shot of being able to play sometime before the end of the Stanley Cup playoffs, which would run as late as June 9.

But even if Eaton is physically capable of returning at some point, there's no guarantee the Penguins will have a spot available for him.

"[Darryl] Sydor can't get in the lineup right now," general manager Ray Shero said yesterday. "For Mark to have missed all that time ..."

Shero acknowledged that he hadn't gotten an update on Eaton's condition in a few days, but suggested that targeting these playoffs for a comeback might be unduly optimistic.

"I think he's pushing the envelope a little bit right now anyway, in terms of a timetable," Shero said.

Eaton was injured Dec. 23, when Boston forward Marco Sturm knocked his legs out from under him during a game at Mellon Arena.

Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08133/881148-61.stm

Game 2 Pens vs. Rags - Pics Included

2008-05-12T15:50:00.006-04:00

My Pics: The View from Section D

Pens Take Ice During Warmups

Pens During Warmups

Anthems

Random Pic During the Game

Highlights

Kennedy vs. Upshall

RECAPS

The Sidney Crosby Show: http://sidcrosby.blogspot.com/2008/05/round-3-game-2-pens-v-flyers-w-4-2.html
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NHL.com: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=363172
-

Empty Netters: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08132/881032-383.stm

It Should Have Been a Goal

Talbot IN, Hall OUT - TSN

2008-05-11T15:32:00.003-04:00

Maxime Talbot to Play Tonight / Hall to Sit

From TSN.ca Staff,

Pittsburgh centre Maxime Talbot will be in tonight's lineup when the Penguins face the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference finals.

Fourth line centre Adam Hall is expected to come out in place of Talbot.

Sidelined with a broken foot since Game 3 of the second round against the Rangers, Talbot skated on Saturday for the first time since the injury.

The Lemoyne, Quebec, resident has one goal and one assist with a plus- 1 rating in these playoffs.

Article: http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=237368&lid=sublink02&lpos=topRelated_main

ESPNRadio 1250 has confirmed that Talbot will play tonight but MT hasn't disclosed who will sit. According to TSN.ca, Adam Hall will sit but I can't confirm this report.

Q&A w/ MT - KuklasKorner.com

Michel Therrien

Q. You guys have been to be able hold home ice through these first two games. How is your team’s approach going into Game 2? Have you been aware of just that, the opportunity to preserve that home ice?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: When you get home ice, there’s no doubt the second game is always crucial. All the teams want to try to win at least one game, when you are on the road. But for us, you know, it’s a crucial game. Every game we go through the series, the next one is always the biggest one, so that’s their approach. We don’t look too far ahead. We look one game at a time, and the second game you always try to bring a bit more of yourself, because the first game it was a good game, we got a good result, we expect the Flyers to be better tonight, and we expect from ourself to be better as well. And we always respond really well in the second game.

Q. What the decision on Max Talbot tonight?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: He’s going to play.

Q. What changes will there be then?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: We’ll see. He’s a popular guy, eh? (Laughs).

Q. What are some of the ingredients to your success at home, do you think, the way you have been able to run the table at home?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: Well, as we all know we got a lot of success at home in the playoff, but I will say in the second half of the season, we have been a dominating team here. We capable of making the match up that we’re looking for. I think that’s a big help. We feed from the crowd. This is a young team, whose focus is there. But when you have the emotion that you need to be had, we’re on top of our game. As we all know, every detail, every emotion it’s really crucial when you get to the playoffs, but one of the things is to get the match up that we’re looking for that always helps the home team.

Q. Has Fleury’s game been any different or a whole lot different than the regular season? Or it is a fact that maybe your skaters in front of him are doing a better job defensively?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: I will say it is a combination of both. First of all, Marc Andre he’s really square to the puck. The game slowed down in front of him. That’s normal. Well, he’s only 23, but he has got a few years of experience and you ask any goalie with time and experience, and the game slowed down in front of you so doesn’t have to make those big saves that when he’s out of the position. He’s more square to the puck. He’s more aware of plays going in front of him. That comes with experience. And in the meantime we’ve played a much better defensive game too as well. You put those two together, and you get result that defensively you are better.

Q. It has been six games since you moved some of the defensemen into different pairings. Your thoughts about the Letang Whitney pairing, what are they doing well? Anything they need to do better?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: They are pretty sharp. They move the puck really well. This is one thing. They got that the ability to see the ice and move the puck well and putting those two guys together, forces them to make sure that they are committed defensively, and that’s one of the challenge we try to bring with those two young defensemen. You got to give challenge to players, and especially at this time of year so they don’t have to rely always on their partner. And a natural thing would have split those guys up, but I want them to focus really well and playing solid defensively. And you know what, since we said made that change, they are doing a good job.

Q. You talk about matchups and there was talk when we had that 1 2 punch of Malkin and Sid, two different lines that it would be difficult for the other team to decide which pair to put out, who is the top pair on the opposition, that kind of thing. What have you noticed about which of those two players, Sid or Malkin, is getting the advantage by going against maybe the second pair as opposed to the first? Have you noticed that, the teams are trying to figure out who they should play in that situation?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: It’s more easier when you are at home. And obviously you can’t put those guys always against the third pairing or the second pairing. There’s time, with the rhythm of the game, they are going to have to play against their top pairing. The loss of Timonen, it’s a huge loss for them. We try to take advantage of it as most as we can. I am not concentrating too much against our forwards to play against their forwards. One of the reasons that they got three balanced lines, that they could score, they got grit, they got speed. That’s one of the reasons why we try to focus more on our defensemen, to make sure we got a lot of speed against some of the guys give us some offense.

Q. Your playoff slogan “sacrifice.” Is it something that you guys have bought into or is it just a word that’s on a T shirt?

COACH MICHEL THERRIEN: (Laughs) You always try to find that extra motivation when you start the playoffs. Like for us “sacrifice,” is we believe that was the right word and we approach it almost every day with that young group. When we talking about sacrifice, not always sacrifice on the ice, there’s sacrifice off the ice as well. You can go on, the list on and on. The players are really buying it. They are disciplined and focused on the ice and off the ice. They’ve got a goal and they want to reach that goal. And with no sacrifice, it’s tough to reach the goal. And it’s demanding at this time of the year. There’s a lot of distractions, but their focus is still there.

Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/stevens_therrien_talk/

Geno's Contract

2008-05-11T12:38:00.004-04:00

Evgeni Malkin Contract Update

According to CBC Sport's Hotstove Evgeni Malkin won't give the Penguins the hometown discount that Sidney Crosby gave them last year.

Expect Malkin to sign a long term deal which will cost a lot more than Sidney Crosby's current contract which is at 8.7 Million a year. Malkin might even get the maximum amount of money allowed for NHL players which is a little over 10 mil a year. I wouldn't be suprised to see Malkin sign a contract that is similar to Alexander Ovechkin's contract which is at 13 years, 124 million.

Malkin is currently signed through the 2008-2009 season and is paid $984,200.

Honours and Awards
2007-08 - Played in NHL All-Star
2006-07 - NHL - Calder Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year)
2006-07 - NHL - All-Rookie Team
2006-07 - Played in the NHL YoungStars Game

You can watch the Video here (About 5 minutes into video)- http://www.cbc.ca/sports/player/?maven_playerId=hockeynightincanada&maven_referralPlaylistId=474a526d503a2fe3d89adfa5eb4a0fa4cceb90fc&maven_referralObject=736995938

Player Page: http://tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=4686&hubname=nhl-penguins

Sidney Crosby

2008-05-10T18:11:00.003-04:00

Sidney Crosby

Last Night I decided to do my second blog post on a particular player after each game and there is obviously no better place to start than with Sidney Crosby. Now I actually planned to have some criticism for Sid but after last night, I don't believe I can criticize him.

So going into last nights game vs. the Flyers Sid had recorded 14 points primarily in assists and within them the majority were secondary assists i.e. not the pass to the scorer. While there is nothing wrong with that it has been evident that Sid is trying to force the game too much and do to much with the puck and this is clear while he is loosing the puck in the majority of the games before the series with the Flyers, also a key reason why he hasn't scored so many goals in the Playoffs.

I am happy to say this all seemed to go last night as he looked more like his old self again. Coming out with a bright start and some good puck handling. The goal a key one for him and the team as it was the momentum changer for the game. After this he was a far more free player looking even better and not trying to do it all, like in previous games. The factors why this occurred will be looked at different by different people. I feel though maybe being against the Flyers and his previous record vs. them maybe allowed Sid to relax a bit and be like his old self. Also with the knowledge of how well Malkin is playing at the moment helped allow this transition to take place in Game 1. I personally believe that this is a new turn for Sid in this playoff series as he seems to have settled down into his stride of free flowing passing hockey. If this Years cup run falters (fingers crossed it won't) he will be back bigger and even better next year.

While this intended to be a brief overview of Sid I would be interested to see others view on it so
please feel free to contact me Britishpensfan@pensunderground.com. The next game I will review Marc Andre-Fleury.

Sidney Crosby Scores in Game 1 vs. Flyers

Preview: COMING 10/7/08

This is just a preview of a show that will appear on October 7, 2008.

He's BACK? -Mad Max-

2008-05-10T14:22:00.004-04:00

Mad Max may Play Tomorrow

From Dave Molinari at the P-G,
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Center Max Talbot, who missed the Penguins' past three games because of a broken right foot, said he believes he will be ready to play in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference final tomorrow night at Mellon Arena.
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Talbot rejoined his teammates for practice at the arena this morning and was on the ice for about 90 minutes.

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Talbot broke his foot as he blocked a shot during Game 3 of the Penguins' second-round series against the New York Rangers.

The Penguins beat Philadelphia, 4-2, in the opener of the conference final last night.

Location of Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08131/880861-61.stm

Player Page: http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3472

MT's Response

Q. Max Talbot was able to practice today, can you give us an update on his status, might he play tomorrow, and, if he can, what will you do with the lineup?

COACH THERRIEN: We’ll see tomorrow. He looked pretty good today. We’ll go through the morning skate and make a decision. We’re going to sit down with him and see how he feels. But it’s nice to see him back practicing with the boys.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/pens_coach_therrien_after_practice_today/

Game 1 Pens vs. Rags - Pics Included

2008-05-10T08:03:00.011-04:00

Pics: The View From Section D

Clik on the pic. to see a larger image.

The Media was everywhere

The Whiteout T-shirt

Warmups

Malkin during Warmups

Don Cherry in Pink

Pens coming out through the smoke

Anthem

Whiteout

Faceoff

Random pic

Random Pic

Ruutu

Gary Roberts For President!

Random Pic

RECAPS

NHL.com- http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?service=page&page=Recap&gameNumber=311&season=20072008&gameType=3

Empty Netters- http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08130/880616-383.stm

The Sidney Crosby Show- http://sidcrosby.blogspot.com/2008/05/round-3-game-1-pens-v-flyers-w-4-2.html

Highlights

The Latest News

Kudos to Kuklas Korner - http://www.kuklaskorner.com/

Biron is Human

from Mike Sielski of phillyBurbs,

Maybe this is unfair to Biron, the man most responsible for the Flyers reaching this point. There isn’t a goaltender in the NHL who would be expected to stop Malkin on a 3-on-2, or on a shorthanded breakaway. Malkin’s winning and insurance goals fall on Biron’s teammates more than they fall on him. Nevertheless, it’s still the truth: Biron has to be sensational for the Flyers to beat a team with as much talent as the Penguins. He has to make the same saves that he made against the Capitals and the Canadiens. Then he has to make some more.

At a minimum, he can’t do what he did with just less than six minutes left in the first period. He can’t transform an innocent Pittsburgh dump-in into an easy goal for Crosby, can’t afford to be so cavalier at such a crucial moment

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/256-05102008-1531940.html

Flyers Have Too Much Emotion

from Phil Sheridan of the Philadelphia Inquirer,

Raw emotion is like a shot of adrenaline. It can lift a team for a little while, but sooner or later it wears off.

The Flyers were hit with two shots of pure emotion before Game 1 of their showdown series with the Penguins here last night.

First, defenseman Kimmo Timonen unexpectedly appeared. A day after being shocked by the news that a blood clot would keep Timonen from playing in this series, here he was in the flesh to rally "the boys."

Then, coach John Stevens told his team about something that happened across the state a few hours earlier. Matt Liczbinski, the 24-year-old son of fallen Philadelphia Police Sgt. Stephen Liczbinski, briefly turned his father's funeral into a Flyers pep rally.

To Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/20080510_Phil_Sheridan__Flyers__emotion_carries_them_only_so_far.html

Video: Post Game - Nightly Sports Call

http://kdka.com/video/?id=41142@kdka.dayport.com

Shades of Mario?

2008-05-09T22:28:00.002-04:00

Shades of Mario?

After watching game one of the Flyers – Penguins series, I can only come away with one thing to talk about. I know what your thinking, we just won a big game against our most hated rival and there was plenty of action to discuss like Sidney Crosby’s wicked deflection goal or Brooks Orpik’s bone crushing hit on Scotty Upshaw or Marc Andre Fleury’s brilliant glove and stick saves.

These are worthy storylines, but not even in the same ball park as what we saw from Evgeni Malkin. Malkin did what truly great players do. They take over a game and put it away. He made big hits and he dove for loose pucks. He scored two huge goals. His “power” slap shot breakaway was reminiscent of a Michael Jordan slam dunk. He truly is playing better than any other hockey player in the National Hockey League. However, I think that it goes even deeper than that.

At one point during the second period, the Pen’s were killing a penalty. Towards the end of said penalty, the Flyers took a penalty of their own. Evgeni Malkin came on to the ice to finish up a four-on-four and get ready to start a power play. During this brief period of time, I saw something that I have not seen since sixty-six wore the flightless bird on his chest. The Flyers let Malkin hold the puck for an eternity, which enabled the Penguins to bring on the power play unit. It was almost as if the Flyers were afraid to go after Malkin. Mario Lemiux was so good that he could slow down the game. Malkin did the same thing tonight.

It was an amazing performance.

Video - Geno in last night's game

Playoff Beards

2008-05-08T19:41:00.008-04:00

I was listening to the radio yesterday at work and I heard an interview between Mikey and Big Bob over at 96.1 Kiss and Max Talbot. For the most part they talked about Playoffs beards. That got me thinking there are some many different types of playoff beards.

Interview with Max Talbot:
http://www.961kiss.com/cc-common/mediaplayer/player.html?redir=yes&mps=&mid=http://a1135.g.akamai.net/f/1135/18227/1h/cchannel.download.akamai.com/18227/podcast/PITTSBURGH-PA/WKST-FM/FS_Max%20On%20The%20Freak%20Show.mp3?CPROG=PCAST&CPROG=RICHMEDIA&MARKET=PITTSBURGH-PA&NG_FORMAT=chr&NG_ID=wkst96fm&OR_NEWSFORMAT=&OWNER=&SERVER_NAME=www.961kiss.com&SITE_ID=1853&STATION_ID=WKST-FM&TRACK=

First we must define what a playoff beard is and discuss the tradition behind the playoff beard.
The “Playoff Beard” or the man patch is a superstitious practice among the NHL and their fans during the quest for Lord Stanley’s Cup. There are not really any defined rules but:

A. The beard may ONLY be trimmed if you lose. This is allowed to try and promote a “turn” in you luck.

B. Neck Beards are acceptable and encouraged.

C. The man patch should start the first day of Round 1 and continue until your team is either eliminated or they win the coveted cup.

It is said that the tradition of the Playoff Beard stared in the 1980’s by the New York Islanders.

Now let’s get down to the different types of beards.

1. The “Wolf Man”, “Wolverine” or “Viking”. This beard can be spotted on players like Ryan Malone (PIT), Ryan Whitney (PIT), Jeremy Roenick (SJS), Jason Smith (PHI), and Marty Turco (DAL).

http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/slideshow/11607572/detail.htmlindex.html?currentSlide=11&taf=pit

The “Wolf Man” is one of the most common playoff beards among players and fans alike. The beard essential requires little to no man-scaping. The beard itself, in the later stages, is hard to see were it starts and stops. It connects to the sideburns, eyebrows, down the neck, the chest, and the back of the neck.

The originator of the “Wolf Man” was Ken Morrow of the 1980’s New York Islanders.

2. The “Fuzzy”, “Peach Fuzz”, “Pedro” or “Zorro”. This beard is common among the younger hockey players who haven’t quite got there big boy beards yet. Who’s got it? Sidney Crosby (PIT), Tyler Kennedy (PIT), Alexander Ovechkin (WASH), Marc Staal (NYR)

These boys have made a good attempt at the “Playoff Beard” but have fallen short. Sprouting only about 40 visible hairs on there baby faces they end up looking like haven’t washed their faces in couple of days, just drank chocolate milk or busted out mom’s eyeliner. The effect is more comical than fierce. The more advanced ‘stache can also include a little chin fluff or some spotty mutton chops. Without a doubt the best one I’ve seen rocking the almost-stache would go to Sidney Crosby.

3. The “Caveman” or “Dapple”. This is the beard in between the “Wolf Man” and the “Zorro”. Players sporting it : Brooks Orpik (PIT), Jarrko Ruutu (PIT), Steve Downie (PHI), Henrik Zetterberg (DET), Henrik Lundquist (NYR), Mike Modano (DAL).

Dapple (verb) means to mark with many spots. Synonyms: speckle, sprinkle, pepper. There a little fuller than the “Fuzzy” but no anywhere as thick as the “Wolf Man”. The impression this type of beard gives of in that a player had speared his face with dirt or that they need to apply some Rogaine to fills in the spots.

4. The “Ron Jeremy” “Pornstache” “Child Molester”. Player rocking these beards are the gutsier players. Max Talbot (PIT), Hal Gill (PIT), Brendan Shanahan (NYR), Marty Biron (PHI)

This is actually one of my favorite types of Playoff beards. Why? Because they are friggin’ hilarious, and the wearer needs to have certain “cockiness” about them to be effective in wearing it. There are a few varied types.

A. The Goatee – full stache with a slight soul patch/flavor savor underneath

B. The Handlebar-ish – full on fluffy stache that attaches to the side burns

C. The final style has no name but in can be identified because you can barely see the person’s mouth through all the hair. The mustache and the beard actually connect into one furry mass over the mouth.

Then there’s also the version that goes COMPLETELY wrong. Jaromir Jagr’s wanna be porn ‘stache ended up looking like a beaver-hitler-landingstrip-turd smooshed on his chin. Yes, I said it…Jagr looks like he’s rockin pubes on his chin!!

5. The “Paul Bunyan” or “Chuck Norris”. This is the fullest and fiercest of the Playoff Beards. This is were you are only, just able to make out a player face. Those manly enough to strut it like a mountain man include Scott Niedermeyer(ANH), Mike Commodore (NYR), Kris Draper (DET), Joe Thornton (SJS) and the originator Denis Potvin.

To check out some more playoff beards:
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=MediaGalleryPlayer&galleryId=5878&location=/mediagallery/beard

Kudos to:

Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Playoff_beard

My good friends of Yahoo Answers for there Detective work on finding awesome pictures!!
http://answers.yahoo.com/question/;_ylc=X3oDMTE1MmI4N2IyBF9TAzIxMTU1MDAxMTgEc2VjA2Fuc19ub3QEc2xrA3N1YmplY3Q-;_ylv=3?qid=20080507173533AAfmHMG

Breaking News - Timonen OUT for the Rest of Playoffs

2008-05-08T18:45:00.003-04:00

Kimmo Timonen OUT

From Tim Panaccio of Philly.com,

Flyers defenseman Kimmo Timonen was diagnosed with a blood clot in his left ankle today. He will be out for the remainder of the playoffs.

The diagnosis was made at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Timonen said.

"I got hit with a shot in Game 4 against Montreal," said Timonen, 33. "It's been getting sorer and sorer every day. We thought we'd get it checked out because it didn't get better and they found a blood clot.

"This was just an awful day for me. I played in Game 5 in Montreal, but it was really hurting me. I have to be honest: I didn't expect this result. How many times in your life do you get a chance to play for this, with a chance to go to the Stanley Cup Finals? This is just awful."

Timonen did not make the trip to Pittsburgh for tomorrow's start of the Eastern Conference finals against the Penguins.

The Flyers plan an announcement later tonight.

"We're still trying to get more information," said general manager Paul Holmgren.

Timonen is the club's best defenseman. He was expected to play against the Penguins' dangerous Evgeni Malkin in the series. His loss could have a huge impact on the Flyers' chances

Link to Article: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/20080508_Timonen_out_for_playoffs_with_blood_clot.html

Player Page: http://tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=123&hubname=nhl-flyers

Kimmo Timonen Gets HIT!

Tom Kostopoulos cheapshots Kimmo Timonen.

Latest News -- 5/8/08

2008-05-08T15:34:00.005-04:00

Q&A with Sidney Crosby and MT

Kudos to Kuklas Korner

Sidney Crosby and MT took part in a Q&A session, you can read the transcript by clicking on the link provided below.

http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/more_penguins_interviews/

VS. Won't Have the Pens Game in HD

Kudos to Paul from Kuklas Korner

Just got off the phone with Versus and game 1 of the ECF will not be broadcast in HD. They have a commitment to show the golf show from the TPC.

So the Pens/Flyers game will only be in SD, so set your DVRs properly if recording.

Link to Article: http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/no_hd_for_ecf_game_1/

Pittsburgh vs. Filthy

Kudos to Andy from Bucks County Courier Times

From Andy Vineberg (a HOMER!),

Pittsburgh might have Crosby, but we've got Cosby, who, let's be honest, is considerably funnier than the Penguins' whiny young scoring sensation — even if he's 70 years old and can't skate.

For you non-hockey fans out there, the Penguins' Crosby is Sidney, not to be confused with David or Bing. But really, what kind of a name for a hockey player is Sidney? Of course, compared to the first names of the Penguins' other two top scorers — Marian and Evgeni (the Russian form of Eugene) — Sidney sounds positively manly. Seriously, Sidney, Marian and Eugene?

Sounds more like the starting lineup of a chess team than a hockey team.

I'll take my chances with Mike, Jeff, Danny and R.J., thank you very much.

-
To read the rest of this homerific article by a Filthadelphian:
http://www.phillyburbs.com/pb-dyn/news/83-05082008-1531037.html

Video: Malkin or Crosby / Fleury or Biron

Click the Below Link to View the Video.

http://watch.tsn.ca/nhl/clip51501#clip51501

The NHL on TSN panel examines which Pens star will give the Flyers the most trouble Crosby or Malkin.

Buccigross Previews the Conference Finals

Kudos to John from ESPN.com

1. The Penguins are a very good defensive team. Why?

• Because every player in the NHL pretty much plays both ways in the 21st century NHL as opposed to during the Gretzky-Lemieux era.

• Because they have under-30 legs like Pascal Dupuis and Marian Hossa, who have been well coached in the art of blowing up plays in the neutral zone.

• Because they have young legs like Jordan Staal, Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby, Tyler Kennedy, Max Talbot, Ryan Malone, Kris Letang and Ryan Whitney.

• Because they are a tight unit whose members make plays and sacrifices for one another.

• Because they have players with height and reach. Malkin, Staal, Hal Gill, Whitney and Malone cover a lot of ice.

• Because they have a very talented goalie, Marc-Andre Fleury, who was a No. 1 overall draft pick and has an easygoing manner that appears to be similar to that of an effective baseball closer. He shrugs off goals and games because he has talent.

This is why the Penguins have been my Stanley Cup pick -- because they are a very good defensive team.

This series is actually counterintuitive to what the casual or slightly out-of-touch hockey fan might see. Pittsburgh is the best defensive team the Flyers have faced so far this postseason. Philadelphia is the best offensive team the Penguins have played so far. That makes this a very interesting matchup. Since the Penguins have the defensive edge, I'll take them. Defense is more dependable than offense.

To read the rest of the article: http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs2008/columns/story?columnist=buccigross_john&id=3386690

Video: P-G's SportsNOW Show 5/8/08

Click the Below Link to view the Video

http://www.post-gazette.com/multimedia/?videoid=100562

Description: Welcome to "SportsNOW," a weekly video talk show moderated by Jerry Micco, assistant managing editor/Sports, and columnists Gene Collier, Bob Smizik and Ron Cook.

Special OFFER - Replica NHL Jerseys for $26

http://www.hockeygiant.com/60offcc550re.html

Follow these instructions to receive your discount:

1. Click the Link Provided

2. Add the item(s) to your basket.

3. Enter code "ccm0507" in the “coupon or promotional code” section of the checkout.

4. The discount will be provided on your order.

Offer may be discontinued at any time without prior notice, and is limited to quantities and colors on hand. May not be combined with any other discounts or promotions. Offer applies only to online purchases and expires May 14, 2008.

Thanks to Bill from Boston for the info.

Pens vs. Flyers Preview

2008-05-07T21:41:00.008-04:00

Hi guys I will start with a small introduction of myself. I am Kevin many may know me from PUG as Britishpensfan, yes I am indeed from across the pond. Why may you ask am i a Pens fan its quite simple, i saw Mario Lemieux on television when i was like 9 and fell in love with the game. For my first blog i will give my view on the much anticipated Eastern Conference finals between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philidelphia Flyers. We all know this has brought NHL fever to the state, in fact i would say the NHL are quite happy for this match-up this late in the Playoffs, forget your Ovechkin and Crosby we know Sid owned AO that is boring now. Who will win is the question many shall ask and i say its simple the Pens in 6.

This series puts probably the best offence on paper in the NHL against what is actually a very strong defensive Flyers unit, who also pack some great offensive players, the acquisition of Prospal was key i think to the Flyers cup run and end of season run in. Also the likes of Timmonen, Coburn and Hartnell, while the former two are more your shut down player like Ruutu and Talbot they still possess some attacking threat. I see Timmonen and Coburn being a key match-up against the Pens attacking lines of Sid, Malone, Malkin, Hossa to name a few, it will be essential that the flyers can shut these guys down, a task which will be impossible for a 7 game series, as the Pens will overpower them. The Rangers failed and they are a very strong shut down team. However i can see the Pens D unit shutting down the Flyers Attacking unit, the strength the Pens have in the likes of Gonchar who has come on a lot in his defensive game since his time in Boston and Washington. Also the likes Orpik, Gill and Scuderi will be all to much. They managed to shut down a Sens team maybe depleted but still some good players in that team. The Rangers as well with the likes of Jagr, Dubinsky, Shannahan, Gomez. To take them in 5 was a great achievement for the Pens and should give them all the confidence in the world.

However the key match up i see is that of the netminders Marc Andre-Fleury and Martin Biron, these two are very solid and two of the best in the business, both can win games for their sides. Biron was one of the main reasons the Flyers did so well this season being solid for the most part. However Fleury not so much before his injury, but after that he has been there with the best in the likes of Nabokov, Turco, Brodeur, Lundqvist, Kiprosoff. He will have to be big and play like he has done all playoffs. Will he step up to the test? Yes he will he has shown that since his return when Ty Conklin was playing so well. Fleury has matured nicely into the netminder we know he can and should be. This is probably the toughest match-up of them all. I think all the games will be close because of these two guys. If Biron is on the top of his game for the majority of the series i can see it going to seven games, he is that good. However i feel the Pens attacking flair is to much and will come out on top and the pressure on Biron will be a lot specially at home.

I have a had a look at the players now probably the key area to any hockey organization the special teams. This is where the Pens begin to show they are light years ahead in hockey terms. A key factor for the Flyers will be if they can stay outta the box because this Penguins Powerplay will hurt you it is the best in the league and the superstars it has just shows how strong they are. The likes of Gonchar, Whitney, Malone, Crosby, Malkin, Sykora, Hossa. If the Flyers want to play tough they have got to do it without taking Penalties or this series could be over quick. Now a look at the other element the penalty kill both teams have a good penalty kill but again its the Pens who edge it. Jordan Staal may not be getting 29 goals like last season but hes doing the stuff which is far more essential, defending and killing penalties this kid is special and the Flyers will have to watch because there PP doesn't boast as much firepower as the Pens. The Pens can really drive home the advantage here.

This series is going to be a good one and its certainly going to have a lot going for it. Its going to be tough but also in that i feel the Flyers have got to stay out of the box or it will be the end for them. The Pens have shown already they can win tough games so i think the Flyers are stuck in a rut here. If the Flyers can stay outta the box it will be the Pens in 6 however if not i will say Pens in 5. A tough series which i am sure everyone like myself can't wait to begin. That's just leaves me to say LETS GO PENS.

If you wish to contact me email me at Britishpensfan@pensunderground.com please feel free to do so.

Latest News -- 5/7/08

2008-05-07T19:00:00.009-04:00

Sidney Crosby/Cherry on the Tirico and Van Pelt Show

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnradio/player?context=podcast&id=3385341

Great Interview(s). Van Pelt needs to stop laughing. SERIOUSLY!

New Pens Arena is Approved

From Mark Belko from the P-G,

The Penguins scored another big victory yesterday, this one off the ice with city planning commission approval of the design for their $290 million arena.

A month after battering the design as bland and too mall-like, planning commission members voted unanimously in favor of the project after architects tweaked certain elements to address their concerns.

The decision clears the way for a groundbreaking this summer, with completion expected before the start of the 2010-2011 hockey season.

To read the of the article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08128/879704-61.stm

More Pics: http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=MediaGalleryPlayer&galleryId=6283

The Steelers at Penguins Games

Casey Hampton, Big Ben, Mike Tomlin, Deshae Townsend, and a few others.

Q&A with Ryan Malone and MT

Kudos to Kuklas Korner

Today, the NHL set up a series of conference calls with the media, in part featuring:
Ryan Malone—Pittsburgh Penguins, Left Wing
Michel Therrien—Pittsburgh Penguins, Coach

The transcripts of their individual Q&A sessions are available through the link provided below.

http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/conference_calls_with_the_pittsburgh_penguins/

Penguins Look Alike - Mr. Kennedy & Alfred E. Newman

Alfred E. Newman and Tyler Kennedy

Kudos to Bill from Boston for the Find

Photoshop - Pittsburgh Penguins

Kudos to Artie from Fox Chapel

WHITEOUT at the Igloo, Friday Night

I'll have pics from the Whiteout posted on Friday.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are calling for another “whiteout” when the Pens open the Eastern Conference Finals Friday night against the Philadelphia Flyers at Mellon Arena.In addition to encouraging fans to wear white, the Penguins will distribute a free whiteout t-shirt to everyone attending the game. The t-shirts are courtesy of Trib Total Media.The Penguins had their first whiteout of the playoffs for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Rangers.

Article Location: http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=362726

Alexander the Great's Prediction

And what’s your prediction?

“I am sure that Pittsburgh will win the Stanley Cup. They have to do it. Malkin is having an unbelievable season. Hossa has found chemistry with Crosby. They have a great goaltender in Fleury. Their defense is pretty even. Pittsburgh is that good, they don’t have challengers.” Alexander Ovechkin

Kudos to Evilpens from the PUG board and the onfrozen blog.

Article:http://www.onfrozenblog.com/2008/05/06/q-a-with-ao/#more-3089

Video of the Day: Flyers Fans Have NOOOOOO CLASS!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4ZVwqNg1hM

Kudos to the Following

http://mondesishouse.blogspot.com/

http://www.kuklaskorner.com/

Gary Roberts - UFA

2008-05-06T16:20:00.005-04:00

This is my first attempt at blogging. I am a avid poster on The Pensunderground.com and Yahoo Answers (Y!A). You may know me as Manda, Amanda or Pensgirl86. I am 22 years old and live just outside of Pittsburgh, PA in a town called Latrobe. I am attending Westmoreland Community College and pursing a Liberals Arts degree. I was raised a Penguin fan during the Mario Lemieux era. So without further ado….this is the article I wrote about one of my favorite Pens plays. Mr. Gary Roberts.

Gary Roberts

On May 23, 1966 Mr. Gary Roberts was put on this earth by the Hockey Gods. MR. Roberts was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins on February 27, 2007 for Noah Welch. He signed a 1 year deal with the Penguins for $2.5 million. Mr. Roberts is a force to be reckoned with at the age of 41, Gary is one of the oldest AND most physical players in the NHL. This season he became the oldest NHL player to register multiple goals in a single playoff game.

Besides the physical on-ice presence that Gary Roberts brings to a team, his work ethic off the ice is just as important. A team as young as the Pittsburgh Penguins are can never have too many role models in the locker room. Simply put, Gary Roberts has been nothing but a class act, on and off the ice since coming to Pittsburgh.

He has the stats to back up his bravado:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/9/career;_ylt=AsZAqVqttmnHRE1t2nJYia5ivLYF

In the short time Gary Roberts has joined the elite group of flightless birds; he has become one of the fans favorite players. Fans have adopted Robertisms, i.e. WWGRD (What would Gary Roberts do?) or sayings such as, Gary Roberts CAN believe it's not butter, every day; Gary Roberts meditates for one hour. This is the only time the rest of the NHL can relax, and Georges Laraque named his fists Gary and Roberts

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This Video pretty much sums up why Mr. Roberts is an asset to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

WWGRD? The question now becomes “What will Gary Roberts do?” If the Pittsburgh Penguins accomplish the awesome task of winning the Stanley Cup, will Mr. Roberts retire for from the NHL forever? What if the Pens fall short of the Cup this year, will he still walk away; or will he sign another one year contract in hopes of retiring a champion.

**KUDOS to Wikipedia and Yahoo! Sports for the statistics on Mr. Roberts
Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gary_Roberts_(ice_hockey)
Yahoo! Sports -http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/9/career;_ylt=AsZAqVqttmnHRE1t2nJYia5ivLYF

Latest NEWS -- 5/6/08

2008-05-06T15:01:00.004-04:00

Rangers Looking at Hossa?

By Lynn Zinser of NYTimes

If the Penguins do not have enough money to offer Hossa, who is making $7 million this season, the Rangers may be in the bidding for him. He is a strong two-way player and seems to be the kind of finisher the Rangers could use on a line with center Scott Gomez.

If the Rangers keep him from returning to Pittsburgh, they would take a chunk out of the lineup of a division rival, one that looks as if it will be formidable for years to come.

The Rangers will probably have roster spots and salary-cap room available if any of their major free agents do not return. That list includes forwards Jaromir Jagr, Brendan Shanahan and Martin Straka.

Hossa certainly staged a good audition for the job.

Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/06/sports/hockey/06rangers.html?ref=hockey

Hatcher Playing Through the Pain

by Rob Parent of Delco Times

“These five days off should be good for me,” Hatcher said, referencing the ridiculous, TV-decreed waiting period until the Flyers and Penguins commence the Eastern Conference finals Friday night in Pittsburgh, “because I was getting a little worn down and beaten up. It’s just because I had been out for a long time, and then I came back (for the playoffs) and we end up playing every other night.”

Essentially, a fractured bone near the ankle had left him with one halfway good leg, with pain radiating up and down the other. Yet Hatcher has found the strength to return for a springtime renewal of a Flyers team that spent the prior spring bogged down in humiliation.

So, how is a guy a month shy of 36 supposed to renew his broken body to go along for the ride? Maybe it’s something you learn the longer you’re around.
-

“Just everyday wear and tear,” Hatcher said. “It hasn’t really had the chance to heal the way it should. And I don’t mean my ankle … more the rest of my body. I mean, from my hip flexors to my everything else. Coming back for me, it was like going zero-to-60 on a track.”

Read the Rest of the Article: http://www.delcotimes.com/WebApp/appmanager/JRC/Daily?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=pg_article&r21.pgpath=%2FDCT%2FSports&r21.content=%2FDCT%2FSports%2FTopStoryList_Story_2001967

Don Cherry is Coming to Pittsburgh/ESPN

By William Houston of Globe and Mail

Don Cherry is taking his commentary and wardrobe south of the border, where he will make regular appearances on ESPN during the NHL's Eastern Conference final.

"I guess they like my jackets," the Hockey Night in Canada personality said yesterday.
-

Cherry and Hockey Night host Ron MacLean will leave the CBC's Toronto studio for the road to

cover the Philadelphia Flyers-Pittsburgh Penguins series, which will start on Friday.

Cherry will do live hits by remote for ESPN's SportsCentre at the end of each Flyers-Penguins game.

"When I'm finished with the wrap-up on Hockey Night, I'll do the ESPN spot," Cherry said. "Sherali [Najak, the executive producer of Hockey Night ] will help set it up for me."

Read the Rest of the Article:

http://www.globesports.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080505.wtruth06/GSStory/GlobeSportsHockey/home

Game 1 and 2 are SOLD OUT!

From Post-Gazette
-

The Penguins sold all remaining tickets for Games 1 and 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Philadelphia Flyers. Approximately 2,000 tickets for each game went on sale to the public today at 10 a.m. and were sold in minutes.

Game 1 of the best-of-seven series will be played Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Mellon Arena. Game 2 will be played Sunday at 7:30 p.m.

Video of the Day - What a SAVE!

Kudos to:

http://www.kuklaskorner.com/

http://www.post-gazette.com/sports/emptynetters

BTW, The Pens Blog mentioned that we had a nice preview of the Pens vs. Flyers matchup. I'd like to say that I got the article from The Hockey News or http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/15798-The-Hockey-News-200708-NHL-Playoff-Preview-Round-3.html. I'm sorry for the misunderstanding and I will be posting the link from every article I get from the world wide web. Thanks.

These Pens Are Special

2008-05-05T21:08:00.006-04:00

Hello, my name is Tony Luke. You may know me better as tluke53 from several Penguins message boards. I enjoy giving my opinion and writing, so I thought why not take a shot at blogging. This is my first attempt, so go easy on me!

This week the Penguins dispatched the New York Rangers from the second round of the playoffs. Although many fans expected this victory, maybe we should consider just how far the Pens have come. Nearly 12 months ago, the Penguins were easily dispatched from the first round of the playoffs by the Ottawa Senators. Let’s take a look at that team for a moment….

Colby Armstrong and Michel Ouellet were two of our top line wingers.
-
Many fans wondered if Sergei Gonchar would soon be fitted for a dress. Some fans even wanted him traded before the draft and replaced by Ryan Whitney.
-
Gary Roberts was expected to lead and be a major contributor.
-
Ryan Malone was considered a decent third line winger.
-
Evgeni Malkin was a rookie playing second fiddle to Sidney Crosby.

Flash forward to now.

Colby and Michel have been replaced by Pascal Dupuis and Peter Sykora.
-
Sergei Gonchar has played tremendous defense all season earning praise from even his harshest detractors, and Ryan Whitney is now threatening to try on that dress.
-
Gary Roberts is now a fourth line winger who brings experience.
-
Ryan Malone may be the most sought after “Power Forward” this off-season.
-
Evgeni Malkin looks like the best player in the world and has largely overshadowed Sidney Crosby.
-
In addition to all of this, the Pens picked up an all-star forward in Marian Hossa and a net clearing physical defenseman in Hal Gill.

All of these additions and upgrades have turned the Pen’s into the most dominant force in the Eastern Conference. Last year’s team consisted of an impressive power play and star power. This year’s team can beat you 5 on 5 and is just as dangerous on the power play. Does anyone think that the Flyers have a chance? I certainly don’t.

I suggest that Pen’s fans everywhere take a moment to reflect on how good this team really is right now. Teams like this only come along every few years. Let’s all sit back and enjoy the ride, because this Pen’s team is truly special.

Playoff Tickets On Sale Tuesday @ 10AM

2008-05-05T18:52:00.003-04:00

HOME: Playoff Tickets On Sale Tuesday @ 10AM

From the Pens Website,

A limited number of individual game tickets for the first two home games of Round 3 of the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs will go on sale to the general public on Tuesday, May 6 at 10 a.m., the Pittsburgh Penguins announced.

The Pittsburgh Penguins will open the Eastern Conference Final round Friday, May 9 at 7:30 p.m. against the Philadelphia Flyers at Mellon Arena. Game 2 of the best-of-seven series will be played Sunday, May 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Mellon Arena.

Tickets for the first two home games will be referred to as “Round 3, Home Game 1” and “Round 3, Home Game 2”.Approximately 2,000 tickets will be available for each game. Fans may purchase a maximum of four tickets per game.

Fans are encouraged to order online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806005?brand=penguins since tickets for Rounds 1 and 2 sold out in a matter of minutes.

Tickets also are available for purchase at the Mellon Arena Gate One Box Office, all Ticketmaster locations, or by calling Ticketmaster at 412-323-1919. Fans are advised that lottery systems will be used at the Gate One Box Office and Ticketmaster locations.

Recommendation : Try to buy 1 or 3 ticket(s). More are available that way.

Link: http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/806005?brand=penguins

Price ranges from $90 to $260.

AWAY: Playoff Tickets Already Went On Sale

Good Luck. It seems to me that the games are already sold out. They will probably release tickets a few days before the game if you have to have tix.

http://flyers.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NHLPage&id=21672

Video: TSN Previews the Eastern Conference Finals

http://watch.tsn.ca/nhl/clip50856#clip50856

Penguins vs. Flyers Schedule

2008-05-05T17:17:00.005-04:00

NHL Conference Finals - The Schedule

I will have pictures from game 1, 5*, and 7*.

*If Necessary

Game 5 Pens vs. Rags on NBC Scores BIG TV Ratings

Kudos to Kuklas Korner - Steve

The NHL On NBC drew a 2008 high 1.5/4 for it’s broadcast of Game 5 of the New York Rangers-Pittsburgh Penguins Eastern Conference Quarterfinals series, according to Sports Business Daily (reg. required). It’s the largest audience to watch an indoor hockey game this season on U.S. TV.

====

Previewing the Eastern Conference Finals

Kudos to The Hockey News

From: http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/15798-The-Hockey-News-200708-NHL-Playoff-Preview-Round-3.html

Regular Season Record

Pittsburgh – 47-27-8

Philadelphia – 42-29-11

Season Series

Pittsburgh 3-5-0 (23 GF, 28 GA)

Philadelphia 5-3-0 (28 GF, 23 GA)

Leading Scorers vs. Opponent

Pittsburgh – Evgeni Malkin, 15 (6G, 9A); Petr Sykora, 8 (3G, 5A); Sergei Gonchar, 8 (3G, 5A)Philadelphia – R.J. Umberger 11 (6G, 5A); Joffrey Lupul, 10 (5G, 5A); Mike Richards, 8 (1G, 7A)

2008 Playoff MVP

Pittsburgh – Marc-Andre Fleury. The Penguins goaltender has been everything he has failed to be to this point in his career. The Penguins have enough offense that they don’t need superhuman goaltending, but Fleury is providing close to that.

Philadelphia – Martin Biron. Really, really wanted to say R.J. Umberger here, but we have to go with Biron in an incredibly close vote. Biron’s play in the second round made the margin of victory much larger than it should have been.

Why They’re Here

Pittsburgh – Unlike last season when the Penguins looked like a deer peering into oncoming headlights in the first round, Pittsburgh’s star players are being difference makers and they have enough of them to carry the team a long way.Philadelphia – For years, the Flyers searched for a goaltender who could lead them to victory in the playoffs and they’ve finally found one. Their elite players are coming through, but lesser lights such as Umberger and Joffrey Lupul have been terrific.

Special Teams

This could prove to be the difference in the series if the Flyers continue to flirt with disaster in this area of the game. The Flyers have been shorthanded more than any other team in the league by far and if they take too many penalties against the Penguins, they’ll be scorched by one of the best power play units in the league.

Edge: Pittsburgh

Forwards

The Penguins are deeper down the middle than any team in the playoffs and in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin they have two of the best players on the planet. But the Flyers are getting such great production from such unlikely sources that it has given them depth up front the Penguins don’t have.

Edge: Philadelphia

Defense

You’d think it would be the other way around, with the Penguins having the edge at forward and the Flyers better on defense, but the Penguins much-maligned defense corps has held up quite well so far in the playoffs. They get the edge because they move the puck better than the Flyers do.

Edge: Pittsburgh

Goaltending

Both teams have received all-world goaltending from their Quebec-born stoppers through the first two rounds of the playoffs. Biron has proved he has what it takes to be a No. 1 goalie in the NHL and Fleury has proved he can deliver in important games.

Edge: Even

Coaching

Let’s face it, neither of these guys is the second coming of Dave King. Both coaches tend not to micromanage their rosters and give their top players the freedom to do what they do best. Michel Therrien, in particular, has really grown as a coach over the years and has done a good job of tightening the Penguins’ game up.

Edge: Even

X-Factor

Almost half of Umberger’s 13 goals this season came in his eight games against the Penguins. The Flyers owned the Penguins in their first four matchups of the regular season, but the Penguins took three of the last four.

Prediction

The Flyers have already gone light years further than anyone thought they would this season and while it certainly wouldn’t be a shock to see them give the Penguins a series, it took the Flyers 12 games to get out of the first two rounds and the Penguins just nine. The Penguins are playing with the authority of a team that will seriously challenge for the Stanley Cup.

Penguins in five.

Highlights - Stars vs. Sharks 4 OT

Pens Beat Rangers 3-2; Advance to Eatern Conf. Finals

2008-05-04T19:41:00.005-04:00

Pens beat the Rags 3-2 in OT will play the Cryers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

From Shelly Anderson at the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette,

Marian Hossa scored in overtime to give the Penguins a 3-2 win over the New York Rangers today at Mellon Arena, clinching their second-round playoff series. They advance to the Eastern Conference final, where they will play cross-state rival Philadelphia.

Dates and times for the third round are pending, but Games 1 and 2 will be at Mellon Arena.

To Read Rest of the Article: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08125/879131-100.stm

Kudos to KuklasKorner for the find.

ESPN.com Recap: http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/recap?gameId=280504016

Highlights

Pictures from the Game

My camera ran out of batteries before the warmups even started. Sorry.

The only pic. I have was Gary Roberts, WWGRD?

And Gary Roberts Delivered with a couple DEVESTATING Hits.

GW GOAL

Preview: Game 5 -- Rags @ Pens

2008-05-04T08:11:00.003-04:00

Game 5

2:00 PM

TV: NBC (HD), RDS (HD), CBC (HD)

Internet (FREE): http://www.justin.tv/richsportsonline

Listen: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?service=page&page=Radio

Starting Goalies: Henrik Lundqvist vs. Marc-Andre Fleury

PensUnderground Chat Room - Opens @ 1:30

http://pensunderground.com/pugchat/

=======

If the Pens win today's game they will have won the series 4-1. They will face the Filthadelphia Cryers in the Eastern Conference Finals. If the Rags win today's game they will make the series 3-2. The next game would be played on Tuesday @ 7pm over at MSG.

NHL.com Preview:

http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?service=page&page=Preview&gameNumber=225&season=20072008&gameType=3

Cryers Win Series / Latest UFA Pens Rumors

2008-05-03T21:40:00.005-04:00

Cryers Comeback and Beat the Habs 6-4

The Flyers came back from a 3-1 defecit and defeated the #1 seeded Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Center 6-4. Pittsburgher/Penguin's Killer RJ Umberger scored twice, which gives him a total of 9 goals and 10 points in the NHL Playoffs. Late in the 3rd Period Scottie Upshall scored the GW goal past Habs goalie Carie Price. Mike Knuble ended the game with an open-netter. The Flyers are the second team in NHL history to go from last in the league to the Conference Finals. Detroit was the only other team to do so.

The Flyers will likely play the Pens in the Eastern Conference Finals. They may play the Rangers if the Rags are able to pull off a miracle and beat the Penguins in their next 3 playoff games. The Penguins or the Raners will have home ice advantage because they are the higher seed.

NHL.com Recap/Game 5 Habs vs. Flyers

The last remaining Canadian team has been eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Scottie Upshall scored the go-ahead goal with just over three minutes left in regulation Saturday night as the Philadelphia Flyers advanced to the Eastern Conference final with a 6-4 win over the Montreal Canadiens.

The Flyers, who eliminated the Canadiens in five games, will face either the Pittsburgh Penguins or the New York Rangers in the conference final. The Penguins lead the best-of-seven series 3-1.
R.J. Umberger led the way offensively with a pair of goals as the Flyers erased a 3-1 deficit with three straight second-period goals.

Montreal forward Andrei Kostitsyn tied the score early in the third period, setting the stage for Upshall's heroics.

The Canadiens' loss means the Stanley Cup final will not feature a Canadian team for the first time since 2003. It also extends Canada's Stanley Cup drought to 15 years - and counting.

HIGHLIGHTS

Latest Pens UFA Rumors

(from Eklund @ http://www.hockeybuzz.com/)

1. LW - Ladislav Nagy (e3)

1 reliable source with a connection the team or player

Age- 28

07-08 Stats w/ the LA Kings

38 GP/ 9 G/ 17 A/ 26 Pts/ -2

2. LW/RW - Markus Naslund (e3)

1 reliable source with a connection the team or player

Age- 34

07-08 Stats w/ the Vancouver Canucks

82 GP/ 25 G/ 30 A/ 55 Pts/ -7

Sources: TSN.ca

Cryers at Habs - Game 5 Preview

2008-05-03T17:51:00.009-04:00

Game 5

7:00 PM EDT

TV: VS. (USA), CBC (Canada), and RDS (Canada) - all are in HD

Internet TV (FREE) : http://www.justin.tv/richsportsonline

Starting Goalies: Price (Habs) vs. Biron (Flyers)

How it affects the Pens:

If the Flyers win tonight's game they will win the Series 4-1. They will advance and will either play the Penguins or the Rangers in the Eastern Conference Finals.

If the Habs win tonight's game they will make the Series 3-2. The next game (Game 6) will be played on May 4th, 7pm which be in Filthadelphia.

NHL.com Preview: http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?service=page&page=Preview&gameNumber=215&season=20072008&gameType=3

Latest News: (Kudos to KuklasKorner - http://www.kuklaskorner.com/)

Flyers are Confident Going Into Game 5

from Chuck Gormley of the Courier-Post,

Tonight, the Flyers can close out their best-of-7 series against the heavily favored Montreal Canadiens in five games. It is a position they were in on April 19 when they traveled to Washington and lost 3-2.

“People were concerned we were overconfident going into Washington and I think it was the opposite,” Flyers coach John Stevens said Friday at the Skate Zone.

“We were underconfident. We sat back and waited. We gotta get after this game harder than we have any other game. Montreal is a very good team and their fans are going to be behind them and we’re going to have to be ready to go.”

http://www.courierpostonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080503/SPORTS04/805030357/1002
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Habs Hooligans may be at it AGAIN

from CBC,

Montreal police say they are ready for any excessive celebration Saturday night as the Canadiens take to the ice in Game 5 of their NHL playoff series against the Philadelphia Flyers.

Officers have been surfing the internet, looking through chat groups on social networking sites such as Facebook for any would-be rioters.

Police want to prevent a repeat of the chaos that followed the Habs’ April 21 game when they won their first-round series against the Boston Bruins in Game 7.

Fans took to the streets after the game to celebrate the Canadiens’ performance but the partying got out of hand when vandals attacked police cars, setting several on fire, and broke into stores on St-Catherine Street.

An anti-riot Habs fan group was created on Facebook that night, and its creator said pro-riot subscribers have since posted messages on the page.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/montreal/story/2008/05/02/mont-habsfans.html?ref=rss

If you forgot.......

Habs fans rioted after beating the Bruins in Game 7, Round 1 of the Playoffs. Hopefully, this will never happen again and the Montreal police will hopefully be able to keep order throughout the playoffs.

Welcome to "The Pens Gurus"

2008-05-03T13:11:00.006-04:00

Welcome to: http://pensgurus.blogspot.com/

The Pens Gurus is a blog dedicated to Pittsburgh Penguins fans. Our Gurus will keep you up to date with the latest Penguins News and Rumors. I'm looking for Gurus to help keep this blog running. If you would like to be a Pens Guru please email me at pensgurus@pensunderground.com

The Gurus:

1. Jeremiah

Hi I'm Jeremiah and I am a Moderator at PensUnderground.com. I am a Pittsburgh Penguins Season Ticket Holder and I sit in Section D at the Igloo. I've loved the Pens my entire life. I went to my first game when I was about 5 years old. At my first game the Pens played the Detroit Red Wings we beat the Red Wings 4-2 and it was the greatest moment of my life. I've been hooked to hockey ever since my first game and I love the game immensly.

My favorite Penguins were Matthew Barnaby, Jarmoir Jagr, Mario Lemieux, and Darius Kasparaitis. I've always enjoyed watching hard, tough hockey. The Fighting, the Scoring, the Hitting, the Passion, the Skating, the Saves and the Atmosphere make the sport exhilarating. Currently, I am a huge Mark Eaton and Jarkko Ruutu fan. I like Mark Eaton due to his shot-blocking, he isn't afraid to get injured and I like players who don't mind getting hurt to helping their team win. I also like Jarkko Ruutu. Ruuts is a tremendous player who loves to cause havic. He's a great fighter and he lays down big hits which brings the crowd to his feet.

My favorite Ruutu moment as a Penguin was when he fought Tucker, a Toronto Maple Leaf, on January 3, 2008. You can see the fight by the video I have posted above.

Affiliate- PensUnderground.com is a message board for Pittsburgh Penguin fans. We have a growing member base that is very knowledgeable about the sport of hockey and Pittsburgh Penguins. Join PUG today we are always looking for new members to add to our discussion. No newbie will be turned away and we are proud to announce we are a 100% troll free zone.

http://www.pensunderground.com/