Game 3 Review / Game 4 Outlook

The penguins entered game 3 in Philly looking to bring the same intensity and solid play that landed them a home ice sweep during games 1 & 2 at the igloo. The Pen's got on the board early with a power-play goal by Ryan Whitney at 5:03 of the first period. The scoring followed with 2 goals by Marian Hossa and a tally from Ryan Malone. RJ Umberger scored the lone Flyers goal.

This game for the most part was full of dominating play from the penguins within their own zone and a cut throat throttling offensive attack. Even with a 3 game lead , History shows that their lead is hardly a lock for the finals and the Penguins players need to stay focused ( as hard as that is ) on the task at hand.

"You just kind of keep your head down, keep working and, hopefully, good things will happen," Defenseman Rob Scuderi said. "So far, it's worked well for us."


Game 4 Outlook

Game 4 is shaping up to be the finale in the Eastern Conference Finals. The Flyers are gasping for air and the Penguins need to suck the life right out of them and they need to do it NOW. Gary Roberts wont be in the lineup so look for Adam Hall to take his spot again on the 4th line. Hopefully this one does not get ugly but if it does i hope Hartnell gets his face rearranged by BGL.

Go Pens

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 3

# 18 Marian Hooosssaaa

2 g, 4 SOG, + 1

What a fantastic game by Big Poppa Pump capped off by an empty net goal to seal the deal for the flightless birds. As always he was ferocious on the forecheck and caused mayhem all night in the offensive zone. The you me and dupuis line is really started to click ( ala the steel city line from earlier this year). Boy i hope the longer we play the better the chance of Marian taking a hometown discount as a trade off for winning multiple cups....

Hockey God Update

Winger Gary Roberts is DOUBTFUL for game 3 tonight in Philadelphia. He did not take part in the game day skate.

Insert Adam Hall in his lineup spot if he is unable to go.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 2

# 25 Mad Max

1 G, 1 sog, + 1


Mad Max was really flying all over the ice showing no ill effects of that broken foot suffered in the rangers series. He is instrumental to The Penguins success in the playoffs and gel's really well with scary gary and big georges on the 4th line. Spirited game indeed

Game 2 Review / Game 3 Outlook

The Penguins widened their series lead to 2-0 with a 4-2 win over the Flyers sunday night at Mellon Arena. This game featured at times suspect play by The Penguins, but nothing that a good playoff team couldnt over come. Lead by goals from Sidney Crosby, Marian Hossa, Max Talbot, and an Empty Netter By Gronk ( Jordan Staal.), The Pen's were able to weather the Flyers storm and send the series back to Philly with a sour taste in the Flyers mouth.

The game was full of give-aways and lackluster passing at times, however it was nothing to be alarmed of just yet... The Penguins players know that they were lucky to come out on top of this one, and if they play another uninspired game like this they may not be so lucky.

"It wasn't our best game," "But we found a way to win. And that's what good teams do." Said Penguins Center Jordan Staal.

Scary Gary had this to offer.

"It's nice that we found a way to win, but we're going to have to be a little better than we were tonight," Winger Gary Roberts said. "We don't want to win like that every night."

Looking Ahead

Game 3 should prove to be the turning point in the series. The Flyers backs are against the wall and are poised to scrape for a win by any means necessary. The Penguins need to play their game and stick to their defensive system and all will be well. DO NOT get caught up in the goonery which no doubt will be coming in the form of that sorry ass puke Scott Hartnell.

Lets go Pens


Geno for Con Smythe

NHL Eastern Conference Finals Predictions & Performers

Well well well... It looks like rocky has felt the Penguins wrath, maybe he can give the Flyers some pointers.... ha ha.

This Eastern Conference finals has the making of a true classic. The hated rivalry and storied history of each of these franchises should prove for an outstanding series. Look for a high offensive output from the Penguins big guns as Philly ( without Timonen ) does not have the mobile defense needed to to shut them down. If it turns into a defensive checking game the only remedy in my opinion is to compensate with MORE Malkin and Crosby. Mike Richards and his gigantic contract ( gag) can only be in one place at one time. Laraque, Ruutu, and Roberts are coming for you Hartnell....

Prediction: Penguins in 5

Key Performers

Filthydelphia

Mike Richards

Wow. Is he really more then a glorified 3rd line center? If you put him on the Penguins he would be the 4th line center. Be that as it may, he is still a decent defensive hockey player with some offensive flair in the John Madden mold. He will almost certainly be deployed against the Crosby line.

Martin Biron

A glorified back-up getting the chance to finally play in the playoffs. Marty is a decent goalie who has fared well at times against the 'Guins. He is a headcase which should prove an easy challenge for Jarkko and the gang inside the crease. Sorry Marty, if Henrik Struggled, imagine how tough its going to be for you... making a call to Ron Hextall will not help you now.....

Scott Hartnell

This wiley little punk has been a known agitator who can chip in offensively. He is a dirty player and will stop at nothing to get a little revenge on Sarge for rearranging his face back in the regular season. Just like the Pens did with Avery; ignore him, he will go away.

Pittsburgh

Marc-Andre Fleury

(Career vs Philly ) Games - 18, Wins/Loss 15-2-1 , Shutouts - 2 , GAA- 2.58, Sv% - .913

Enough said.

Marian Hossa

Big Poppa Pump has finally got the proverbial playoff monkey off his back.. The telepathy between he and Crosby is scary. Look for big things....

Sergei Gonchar

The Sarge needs to come up huge in the series. He makes everything happen for the Penguins powerplay and given the Flyers tendency to take up residence inside the penalty box, he should get a ton of chances. We need to see the angry Sarge that pummeled Hartnell right in the face.

Game 5 Review

The Penguins jumped out to a 2-0 nothing lead halfway through the second period on goals by Marian Hossa and a sweet back-hand goal By Evgeni Malkin. The Rangers countered by scoring 2 goals in less then 2 minutes apart in the third period to bring the game to a tie at the end of regulation. It was Marian Hossa however who shined beating Lundqvist 5 hole scoring his second goal of the game at the 7:10 mark of overtime.

Game 5 was a bit of a coming out party for Hossa who has been deemed a playoff slouch in previous seasons. His teammates and on man in particular General Manager Ray Shero who sent 2 roster forwards , a highly touted prospect, and a 1st round pick to land him at the winter trade deadline could not be happier with his success.

"Getting the series-winner, geez, it's hard to write a better script than that for him," general manager Ray Shero said.

"I think you're going to see bigger and better things from him," left winger Ryan Malone said.

The Penguins now have 2 bonifide top scoring lines. There is not a team in the entire NHL that can match The Pen's Firepower. The have gone from legitimate cup contenders to cup favorites before our very eyes. To win as they did in game 5 will go along way to build their mental makeup.

Look out Filthadelphia the Penguins will be in the cup finals before you know what hits you.....

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 5

# 18 Marian Hossa

2 Goals, 5 SOG , #1


What a game by big pappa pump. This is the player we thought we acuired at the trade deadline. He was a monster at both ends of the ice not to mention the nifty OT winning goal. The Chemistry is there between him and Crosby. Look out Marty Biron... look out.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 4

# 30 Henrik Lundvqist

29 Saves , Shutout.

King Henrik really stole game 4 for The Rangers. He made some jaw-dropping acrobatic saves that make you realize exactly why he is a Vezina Finalist. The only chance the rangers have albeit a slim one, is for Henrik to play lights out.

Game 4 Review

The penguins entered Madison square garden Thursday looking to dispose of the rangers with a second straight playoff series sweep. Unfortunately the blue shirts had a something to say about that.

The rangers led by a 3 point performance from Jaromir Jagr , and a breathtaking 29 save performance by Henrik Lundvqist sent the series back to Pittsburgh for game 5. The game was filled with dominating defense play by the rangers as well as a lackluster performance by the flightless birds. The Penguins looked like a completely different team then we have grown accustomed to.

"For whatever reason, we didn't play the way we used to play, the first three games," Penguins defenseman Sergei Gonchar said. "We turned the puck over a lot. I don't know. Maybe it's a lack of experience."

I would say that a combination of bad play by the penguins and superb play by King Henrik led to the penguins demise in game 4. ( not to mention a little help for the rangers from Toronto when they were reviewing the non goal call on Malkins breakaway.)

Now is not the time to panic however the Pen's know exactly what they have to do in order to respond after such lack luster efforts.

"We had a couple of sloppy games during the year," "And we usually answer pretty good." Said Penguins winger Jarkko Ruutu

The Penguins need to seize the oppurtunity

The Penguins enter game four at Madison square garden this evening needing one win to advance to the eastern conference finals , and record their second straight series sweep of the 08 playoffs. Some would say winning tonight in game 4 would be a great accomplishment, how ever it is not necessary given the 3-0 lead and games that would be remaining. Me ? im not sure if I agree...

Lets face it .The Penguins are on a roll right now that has only been seen by the likes of the great dynasty teams of the 70's and 80's. Ever facet of the game has been spot on from the penalty killing to the power play, to even strength and goal tending, this team is firing on all cylinders. The last thing you would want is an interuption in their quest for the cup. Last years beat down in Ottawa during the first round was a gigantic reason The Penguins are where they are today. They faced adversity and weren't so lucky, but this year has been a whole different ball game.

"They're much more mature than last year","They've got way more composure. This is a team that's comfortable playing with the lead in the third period, which is really a challenge for a young team. They believe in themselves. They believe in the way they play. And when they play with a lead they're very tough to play against." Said Penguins Head Coach Michel Therrien.


The Pen's need to win tonight in order to solidify themselves as the favorite for the cup in not only The Eastern Conference but in the NHL. By sweeping the second series it will allow ailing players to rest as well as more time to prepare for their next round opponent. The last thing you would want to do is brighten the light at the end of the Rangers dark dreary Playoff tunnel.


The Penguins have a wonderful opportunity ! Winning now is just simply the only way to go.

Possible Line-up Change

Talbot is out. Which means Gary will be let out of his cage.
AND
Scuderi was also injured blocking a shot so Sydor skated with the defense today.
It's a shame we have to lose two quality players for THREE Stanley Cup Rings.
WINK ;)

News and Notes

Penguins Forward Maxime Talbot was injured blocking a shot on Tuesday Night... Early prognosis looks like he will miss some significant time.....
- what a blow to the lineup , max is exactly the type of player you need to battle in the trenches during the playoffs.....


Rangers Forward Sean Avery was rushed to the hospital early Wednesday morning supposedly in cardiac arrest after suffering a lacerated spleen in Tuesday nights tilt........ Avery will be out the rest of the playoffs....

Karma is a bitch eh sean ????

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 3

#71 Evgeni Malkin

2 G, 1 A , 3 SOG

What a Big Time Performance by a Big Time Player.

Evgeni Malkin Deserves to be The Hart Trophy recipient, there are no two ways about it. Ovechkin can score all the goals he wants with 800 shots on goal, but you are not clutch, passionate, or A COMPLETE player ( defense included )......Geno does all of that and then some......

Geno 4 MVP

Game 3 Review

Sporting a 0-3-1 record in regular season play at the garden, The Penguins invaded Broadway for game 3 of their semi-final matchup with The Rangers. Marian Hossa got the penguins on the board early with a tally at 1:02 of the 1st, burying a bullet in the slot from pretty pass by Pascal Dupuis. Followed on by goals from Georges Laraque, Ryan Malone, and (2) Evgeni Malkin, the penguins stole game three 5-3 despite being out shot drastically in the contest. It was the defense and special teams that won this contest, not the high octane offense that we have grown so accustomed to.

"We were lucky to win," Penguins right winger Georges Laraque said. "Fifteen shots on net, and five goals. That's not going to happen every time. We won because of the penalty killing."

King Georges could not have been more on with his assessment of game 3, ( except luck had nothing to do with it). It was the penalty kill which was a question mark going into the playoffs that made the difference for The Penguins killing off 9 penalties to jump start them towards victory.

The Penguins have finally realized that to go along with their strike at will offense they need a steady reliable defensive effort to polish the armor on the electric team.

"Little things go a long way, and we know that," Malone said. "We've got to be ready for Game 4 and make sure we don't lose our focus."

Indeed Mr. Malone …. Indeed..

News and Notes

Penguins Forward Gary Roberts will not be in the lineup again for Game 3 tonight at MSG. Coach Therrien stated that it was not an injury situation but rather a desire not to change the lineup from Game 2.


Penguins Forward Evgeni Malkin was selected as a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy. The other contenders are Washington's Alex Ovechkin and Calgary's Jerome Iginla.....

......Got Pens Blog believes that with Pittsburgh's lasting run through the playoffs will catapult Geno into the winners circle once the awards are presented in Toronto......

I love Sean Avery...

....I'd love to sop his Gucci Man-Purse with my pee. What a D-Bag! What possibly are you accomplishing by doing what he is doing? Fight someone! Go out & change the pace of the game with a good fight. Hit someone! Create an opportunity for one of the great forwards that you play with! But NO...Sean has to get press & be labeled the bad guy. And why isn't Gary Bettman suspending him for the chop on Crosby in the first, the spear to Fleury AND the samurai swing to Laraque's head AFTER the whistle!? Gary Bettman...do you really want all of the press for the NHL playoffs going to Sean"D-Bag" Avery!? You have some of the best players in the world playing right now in one series; the penguins are SIX AND ZERO in the playoffs! How about some press for the best young stars in the NHL since the Oilers of Gretzky, Messier, Fuhr! Gary Bettman, Sean Avery is your NHL poster boy right now; shame on you.

Aside dating one of the Olson twins or both AND trying his hand at fashion...he's still a douche.
Sean, spare us please...we want to watch hockey.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 2 ( 2nd round )

# 11 Jordan Staal

1 goal, 3 sog , +1

What a monster young Jordan has been during the playoffs. He almost makes you forget his trechourous Regular Season. He is developing into a solid solid solid two-way player. Its kind of early but i do see the comparison to Rod Brind-Amor coming sooner rather then later...

Technical Difficulties...

Sorry for the delay. We had internet problems. We'll have all the stuff you should have seen over the weekend posted today.

Go Pens!
(PS - Avery is a D-Bag)

Pens Take Driver Seat in Series.

With a 2-0 shutout win against The Rangers, The Penguins have a 2-0 series lead as the series resumes Tuesday at Madison Square Garden. Game one was dominated by high scoring and suspect defense at times, however game 2 would have nothing of the sort. A powerplay goal by Jordan Staal at 13:55 of the 2nd period put the Penguin's ahead, while Adam Hall added a empty-netter to seal the deal.



At the End of regulation tempers started to flair centered around who else? but Mr. Vouge himself Sean Avery. His true colors show will show when his team is on the brink of elimination.



The Penguin's know that they need to have control and keep their composure heading into the garden. Even though they are up 2-0 in the series, the Pen's mindset will be one of an even playing field.

"After winning two games, you want to go to your next game as if it is 0-0 again. What happened in the past doesn't matter, win or lose. The first round was four-zip, but then you're 0-0 again". Said Jarkko Ruutu.

The Penguins need to shine in the bright lights of Broadway. Taking the play to the rangers will take their crowd out of the game and make a hostile place a little more hospitable.

The Pen's showed the Rangers that they can play any kind of hockey at will.. Now all that is left is to put the icing on Jagr's goodbye cake.

Hockey God Update

Penguins Winger Gary Roberts will NOT be in the lineup tonight for game 1 against the Rangers.

Defense Pairings


Gill - Scuderi

Letang - Whitney

Orpik - Gonchar

2nd Round Predictions And Key Performers

The Penguins are going to have their hands full in this 2nd round playoff series. The New York Rangers have a tough blend of skill, grit, sound defense, and outstanding goaltending with King Henrik. Both of these teams are equipped to play any brand of hockey.Whether that be a tight checking defensive game or a lights out shootout. In order to win the Series the Penguins MUST win at Madison Square Garden.

Prediction: Penguins in 6 games

Key Performers:

Rangers

Jaromir Jagr

Will we see a motivated Jag's playing for his last big contract and chance at The Cup ? Or will we see the disgruntled, egotistic crybaby that has been wearing # 68 all season long. He holds the key to The Rangers success.

Sean Avery
Where do we start with this Vogue intern? Wow this guy is the ultimate super pest. The Rangers will rely heavily on his ability to get inside Pen's star players heads. If things get crazy, I don't think Mr. Avery will find it very fun to play in Mr. Roberts Neighborhood

Henrik Lundqvist
He will be the x-factor for the Ranger's. As a vezina finalist he has shown the ability to take over games and dictate the tempo throughout. Shooting as much as possible and scoring early is the game plan The Penguin's should adhere to. It wont be easy but King Henrik is beatable.

Penguins

Hal Gill

The USS Gill will almost certainly be deployed against The Jagr Line. In the past he has been able to take Jag's off his game which will certainly be his focus in this series. By using his big body down low, he can match him step for step which will prevent those patented wrist shots from the slot that we are accustomed to seeing from Jaromir.

Marc-Andre Fleury
The Flower needs to continue to blossom this series. This team will go as far as Marc will take them. He needs to be sound positionally as well develop an edge to his game. Avery no doubt will cause havoc in front of the net and Marc Needs to respond accordingly. Expect big things from the two-niner.

Gary Roberts
This man is no mere mortal. You cannot say enough to what he contributes to this team. He needs to set the tone early and show The Ranger's exactly what it is like inside Mr. Robert's neighborhood. Look at the water ... look at Roberts drinking the water...

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 4

# 37 Jarkko Ruutu

1 goal, +1, 2 sog

The Finish Crash won the game for The Pen's with a pretty backhand spini-rama goal that ended up being the # 1 play of the day on Sportscenter. Ruuts displayed great discipline by accumulating 0 penalty minutes the entire series....

He will be huge down the stretch....

How "sweep" it is.

And how fun it was too.
It's hard for me to forget the whooping the Senators got in the first round so that I can reminisce about the things that actually brought me giggles and glee.

The "Senator"
I thought a Seantor was the guy in the togo reciting Socrates & figuring out diplomacy.
Apparently, Ottawa doesn't know either.
I almost think that the South Park guys orchestrated this one...how much cheese can you put into the opening of you hockey game? This much.


And...I found this toolbag of a video.

That would suck to do all this & then have your team get swept in 4. Good effort though.

The National Anthem
I do think I know the real inspiration behind the Penguins sweep. Most national sports teams get a celebrity to sing the national anthem. Ottawa picked the wrong one.
Mr. McFeely from Mister Rodgers Neighborhood.

Don't they know that Mr. McFeely & Fred Rodgers bleed black & gold.
Don't they know that their is a Dinosaur dressed up like Mr. Rodgers IN Pittsburgh.
Thanks for the motivation.
And the giggles & glee.
And the week-and-a-half of rest.
And a first round by.

Sweep Dreams Senator's

The Penguins wrapped up their Eastern Conference Quarterfinals matchup with the OttawaSenator's to sweep the series 4 games to 0. The Pen's brought the same intesity and killerinstinct to Game 4 that has helped them to a first round sweep. Goals by Evegeni Malkin, Jarkko Ruutu, and an empty netter by Sidney Crosby sealed the deal for the Pen's, and helped to enstill a positive playoff memory moving forward.

"Most of us, our first playoff memory was losing here," Penguins Capitan Sidney Crosby said. "That's changed now."

The Penguins have gained a confidence that will do wonders for them thourghout this playoff run. None bigger then the confidence that Marc-Andre Fleury now has in his own abilities.
Fleury's teamates realize that his contribution is the reason they will go far in thechase for the Cup.

"Since I've joined this team and he returned from high ankle sprain injury, he was strong for this team," said Winger Marain Hossa. "He hasn't missed a beat. There were a few saves in Game 4 that were unbelievable. You need great goaltending in the playoffs, and he was great for us."

The Penguins have laid a solid foundation in this first round that will be needed as they continue
thier trip towards professional hockey's greatest trophy, " Lord Stanley's Cup ". Solid Defense,
quick strike offense, and elite goaltending are the essential ingredients for a successfull cup
run. Sending the Senator's into an early spring hibernation showed the entire NHL exactly what
scary things this hockey team is capable of.

With that in mind ... "Sweep" Dreams Ottawa .. better luck next time...

Game 4 Preview

After taking a commanding lead in the quarter final series 3-0. The Penguins attempt a clean sweep of Ottawa tonight at Scotiabank place. Given the level of play demonstrated in previous games, game four should be nothing short of spectacular.

The Senators are going to come out with an all out attack in a last ditch effort to keep their slim and ever fading series hopes alive. No matter how good the Senators play the Penguins know that they need to be that much better.

" They're going to come out hard, " are we going to come out harder ? hopefully. That's the plan." Said Center Max Talbot

Closing out the forth win of the series sooner rather then later will do wonders for this Penguins team. It will provide a chance for their banged up players to heal as well as a better chance to prepare for their second round opponent.


As great as the Pen's have played throughout the first three games they know exactly how hard it is to win game 4 in any Stanley Cup Playoff Series.

" We know its going to be extremely tough to win the last game," " but the sooner we can do it, the better." Said Penguins Winger Marian Hossa.

As long as the Pen's can establish a lead a lead and play a tight checking game the series should be theirs. They must not get caught in the goonery that no doubt will take place once a penguins victory is assured. Finishing off this series and heading into round two healthy should be the Penguin's biggest concern.


After the beating they took this series, Ottawa would like nothing more then to spoil the playoff run for the Pen's.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 3

# 18 Marian Hossa

1 G, 2 A, + 2, 3 SOG

What a breakout game for Big Poppa Pump. I didnt think he was ever going to score a goal, not to mention his pretty pass to Max Talbot for the Pen's first goal. His offensive flair was only a shadow of his contribution last night. His ferocious back check on a breakaway kept the Senators from getting a prime scoring chance. The chemistry is getting scary.....

Game 3 Review

Game 3 had all the elements of a classic Stanley Cup Playoff Game. From the bone crunching body checks and tight defense, to the onslaught of shots and offensive chances this game had all the makings of a down to the wire showdown . That was until Sidney Crosby had something to say about it.

Through two periods of play the Pen's and Sen's were tied at one a piece thanks to goals by Nick Foligno and Maxime Talbot of the Pen's. At the 12 second mark of the 3rd period Sidney Crosby took matters into his own hand ripping a Snap Shot Five hole on Martin Gerber propelling the Penguins to their first lead of the contest. Followed up with goals by Jordan Staal at the 1:30 mark and Marian Hossa on the power play. With a 4-1 lead the game was quickly out of reach.

Lost in the shadow of the incredible offensive performance is the play of Marc- Andre Fleury who's 33 saves on 34 shots was the reason the penguins were in the game long enough to build an offensive attack. Not only does Fleury have the confidence in his own abilities, he has his teammates believing that he is the guy they can count on to win a game for them single handedly.

"He was big for us early and really shut the door at the end," "He got us the win." said Penguins
Defensemen Ryan Whitney.

The Penguins now have a reliable bonifide # 1 goaltender who is playoff tested to go along with their fast strike scoring. That combination should prove deadly to any opponent challenging for Lord Stanley's Cup.

Senator's News and Note's

- Center Jasson Spezza says his knee feels fine after the morning skate and will be in the lineup

- Daniel Alfredsson will be in the lineup tonight. I cant see how he will be 100 %. This should be the spark the Sen's need at home. This could get interesting......

Prediction: the Sens stiffle Pens using agitating wall mural.

The Senators have come out with demoralizing tactics stolen straight from the Axis powers of WWII. Murals & posters strewn about slowly diminishing our confidence & hope. I'm surprised Ottawa doesn't have someone on the radio like "Tokyo Rose" telling all the Pens fans that Crosby has been assassinated.

This is what the coaching staff & the front office in Ottawa came up with.
Put up a poster.
Not working on scoring or the powerplay or penaly killing or blocking shots.
"Can we move that mural done the hall...man, are they gonna be pissed."
Classic.

When Gary Roberts sees that poster he will annililate it from existence with a slight movement of his brow. Speaking of "Scary" Gary, does Ottawa really want to keep wasting their time trying to hit Gary. How about stopping 5 goals. How about stopping Malkin & Sykora from defecating on Martin Gerber (which, by the way, played a helluuva game Friday night; I give credit where credit is due). But Martin can't stop everything, especially when he reminds everyone of that delicious baby food every time we see the back of his jersey.

So Crosby & Hossa have played like what...a handful of games together. In the next round, when they starting connecting, the Malkin-Malone-Sykora Defecation line, Staal out-hustling everyone & George Laraque throwing Lemieux passes from behind the net to Roberts... it's gonna be messy.

I'll ask again. Where is Schubert? Please let someone punch you in the face.


The Pens are putting up a poster for the Sens when they come back to Mellon Arena...next year.

Sorry about your sad faces.

Series Shifts To Ottawa For Game 3

After a tremendous effort in game one and two in Pittsburgh the penguins travel to Ottawa Ontario for game three of the series. Ottawa historically has been a tough place for the Pen's to adjust to, however Defensemen Rob Scuderi does not seem to be intimidated.

"As a player, you're not intimidated by loud crowds," Scuderi said. "But, at the same time, they make it a tough place to play, a tough environment to play in."

That was evident last year when the Penguins were taken aback by the ferocious attack the Senators bestowed on them During game one in ottawa last year. The Penguins were caught on their heels and were set into panic mode once the Sen's introduced the young penguins to playoff hockey. This time around the penguins know exactly what kind of effort it takes to win in Ottawa.

"We know how hard it is to win in Ottawa," right winger Georges Laraque said. "We saw that last year."

The penguins need to play a in your face, hard hitting game similar to the play of game 1 in order to take the Ottawa crowd out of the equation.

"If we would play a game like Game 1 in their building, that would be the best way," "You go on the second shift and score a goal, then you just go with them all game, and the crowd's going to be out of it." said center Max Talbot

The penguins players know exactly what it takes now to win in Ottawa, now its all about execution.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 2

# 71 Evgeni Malkin

0 G, 3 A, +1 , 8 SOG

Geno was electric from the minute the puck dropped , earning the primary assist on Sergei Gonchar's tally as well as Petr Sykora's 2 bullets. The telepathy between Sykora and Malkin is pretty scary, as well as the gritty edge that has developed in his game. Sorry Ovechkin the real MVP resides in Pittsburgh.

Penguins need to keep the pedal down !

The penguins continue their march towards the Stanley Cup tonight in game 2 action against the Ottawa Senators. The Penguins took the play to Ottawa early in game one and there needs to be even more of a sense of urgency in game two. The Pen's out played the Sen's in every facet of the game , with a focus on sending a message of toughness and skill that would have Badger Bob Johsnon grinning from ear to ear. The last thing you would want to do is let up the intensity therefore allowing the ailing Senator's to return home to Ottawa with the series tied at 1 game a piece.

Penguins rugged d-man Brooks Orpik believes that the war has just begun.

"It's far from over," "They have a lot of character. We have a lot of respect for that whole team. It's going to be a long series." "It's far from over," Orpik said.

The lack luster play in game one combined with a putrid 50 game clip to finish out the regular season must be weighing heavily on Ottawa's head.

Sen's Coach Bryan Murray had this to offer up after practice on Thursday.

"We had a struggle in the second half of the year, but in the back of my mind I was thinking, The guys are waiting for the playoffs, once we get in we'll get back to the level of play we can be at." Murray said.

Throttling the Sen's when they are down in game two is imperative towards closing out the series once it shifts back to Ottawa.The hellacious atmosphere that is playoff hockey in Ottawa is something this young team would be more prepared for with a 2-0 lead in the series.

The two teams have been in this situation before, only this time the Pen's are in the drivers seat.

News and Notes

- Sens d-man Anton Volchenkov says he will be available for friday nights tilt.

- Expect to see Senators Capitan Daniel Alfreddsson some time this series. Possibly even as early as game 3 in Ottawa.

- Senators to stick with Martin Gerber for game 2

- The penguins plan to dress the same lineup for game 2.

Jesus walks on water, Gary Roberts skates on it.

..and scores two goals. Gary Roberts is a BEAST. He showed the young pens how IT IS DONE.
Fleury looks like a veteran; won't make comparisons until the finals but I've been making this comparison since he was drafted...ask Tony.
Don't forget Coach Therrien (who always looks like he walked off the movie screen of Eastern Promises, sends shivers down my spine with his slick hair & euro-dad suit). Do you think it was a co-winky-dink that the fourth line was out in 68 seconds? Set the tone & scored a hard-working goal around the cage. Coaching. Boo-yah, B. Murray.

Did Gerber play street hockey before the game. Yikes.
Schubert WHO?
Wade Redden...how is your face? Jersey over your head like 1978. You're lucky Gary wasn't in your vicinity.
Volchenkov...glad your okay. I've played goal for 15 years & I would never want to take one like that. But you should still sit a couple games to get better All my best, AK.
Crosby & Hossa playing tic-tac-toe looked pretty.
I can't wait til they DECIDE to score.

Can't wait for Friday.

Pirollo's Peak Performer Game 1

Gary Roberts # 10

2 goals , 2 pts, +1, 3 hits, 16 pims

Its no coincidence that he wears warrior brand gloves. Mr Roberts controlled his neighborhood all night long dismantaling the Senators almost single handedly. He was like a caged aninal at the end of the game looking to murder anything with a pulse.

Game 1 Review

This exciting match began with ancient playoff warrior Gary Roberts taking it to the Sen’s early scoring on a nice feed from Georges Laraque at 1:08 in the first period. Scary Gary finished the game with 2 goals, 3 hits, and 16 penalty minutes.

"They embarrassed us last year," left winger Gary Roberts said. "I think we learned our lesson."

The penguins toped the Senators in every category including the penalty kill which withstood seven 5-4 advantages , as well as being shorthanded two men on two different occasions. The scoring continued with goals from Peter Sykora , Evgeni Malkin , and
Gary Roberts ( 2 ).

Not to be understated was Marc-Andre Fleury’s 26 save performance earning his first NHL Post Season shutout.

“For the last 15 games he's been the best goalie in the National Hockey League so I am not surprised," said Pens head coach Michel Therrien.

This game really showed exactly what kind of character has been bestowed upon these young players. After a late game altercation involving Sidney Crosby and Wade Redden, Ryan Whitney of all players took it upon himself to stand up for his captain and pummel Redden after he threw some punches towards the head of Sid the Kid.

"It's about team spirit," said Therrien. "There's good team chemistry with these guys. Whitney stepped in and did the right thing."

Like the Senators demonstrated one year ago , The Penguins set the tone for what will be a hard hitting, high scoring , in your face series. They controlled play from the minute the puck dropped to the final buzzer.

What a difference one year can make.


( tsn.ca , postgazette.com )

Pens lines For Game 1

Dupuis - Crosby - Hossa

Malone - Malkin - Sykora

Ruutu - Staal - Kennedy

Roberts - Talbot - Laraque


Gonchar - Scuderi

Whitney - Scuderi

Letang - Gill

OFFICIALS FOR STANLEY CUP PLAYOFFS

The nhl has named its officials for the 2008 Stanley Cup Playoffs


http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=233827&lid=sublink06&lpos=headlines_main

It's A Great Day For Hockey

It’s a Great day for hockey.

I don’t think there is a more fitting phrase as the Pens are set to tackle the beast which is the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Tonight the Pens face an ice cold Ottawa Senators team that only one year ago administered a beating so severe that memories of that series have been entrenched in those young players minds forever. However, it was that lopsided series that has molded this Penguins team into a force in the Eastern Conference as well as challengers for the Stanley Cup. They learned last year that the second season is a completely different entity where the rigors of the regular season are only a shell of what can be expected here.

This time around the Senators limp into Pittsburgh for game one with serious injuries to some key players. They are without outstanding two way player Mike Fisher, as well as Capitan and world class player Daniel Alfredson who was lost in a border line illegal hit from Toronto Maple Leafs Forward Mark Bell. Clearly this is not the same Ottawa team which bounced the pens from the playoffs last year. All of which can attributed to suspect at best goaltending tandem of Gerber and Emery as well as lack luster play in all phases of the game.

The Penguins on the other hand are firing on all cylinders. From Crosby to Laraque, all players are playing within themselves and adhering to Michel Therriens defensive system. Newcomers Hossa, Dupuis, and Gill are playing at their highest level since being acquired at the NHL Trade Deadline. With the flower Marc- Andre Fluery blossoming before our very eyes into an elite top-shelf goaltender which made him worthy of the first overall pick in 2003, this team is set for a lengthy and successful playoff performance.

A win in this series will not come easy but is certainly an accomplishable goal. As long as the forwards pick their spots offensively, the d-men play sound fundamental defense to go along with consistent goaltending, the sky is the limit for this team.

It truly is an exciting time to be a Pittsburgh Penguins fan.

1st Round Predictions And Key Performers

1st Round Prediction:


I believe this will be a hard fought series with the pens coming out on top in 5 games.

Players to watch:


Ottawa:

Jason Spezza

Does he finally step out of Heatly and Alfredsson’s shadow and become the elite playmaker that some believe he is ?

Anton Volchenkov

Will he be a force in front of the net making it impossible for the pens skilled players to dangle? Who does he play against Crosby or Malkin. Pick you poison Anton.

Gerber / Emery

Goaltending has been in disarray all season long so I see no hope of any resolution for the playoffs. Emery has fallen of the map and Gerber is nothing more then a glorified # 2.

Christoph Schubert

Does this block head really think he can pull the crap he did last year and get away with
It ? Just in case Mr. Schubert will get reacquainted to Mr. Laraque and the Finish Crash that is Jarkko Ruutu.


Penguins:


Sidney Crosby

Just when you think Sid has peeked he raises his game to a completely different level. Sid can taste the cup and No one will stop him not even a High Ankle Sprain.


Hal Gill

What a monster he has been since the trade deadline . Sound Positional Defense to go along with some nasty body checks are just what the doctor ordered for this team. Expect him to log a lot of ice even strength and short handed.


Marian Hossa

Can he finally silence his critics by having a monster playoff series? I think the effect of the knee sprain are wearing off as well as his increasing chemistry with Crosby will be a deadly combination. Expect Big things from Big Poppa Pump


Jarkko Ruutu

You would hate him if he wasn’t on your team. He is going to be a difference maker this series mark my word. He has added an offensive flair to go along with his mouth and gritty play. Look out Schubert !!!

Pens must prove they learned from 07

Good Read by Dave Molinari of the Post Gazette.


http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08100/871613-61.stm

Hockey God Update

Forward Gary Roberts has not experienced any pain or set backs stemming from his high ankle sprain / broken leg. Expect him to be in the lineup for game one this evening.



( postgazette.com)

Welcome !

Hello Everyone,
I want to welcome you to Got Pens ? Blog. The most in depth Penguins blog on the net. This site will inform you of all things penguins as the boys of winter begin their quest towards Lord Stanley's Cup.