These Pens Are Special

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.
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• 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.
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• Gary Roberts was expected to lead and be a major contributor.
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• Ryan Malone was considered a decent third line winger.
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• 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• Colby and Michel have been replaced by Pascal Dupuis and Peter Sykora.
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• 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.
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• Gary Roberts is now a fourth line winger who brings experience.
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• Ryan Malone may be the most sought after “Power Forward” this off-season.
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• Evgeni Malkin looks like the best player in the world and has largely overshadowed Sidney Crosby.
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• 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.