Icing on the Skates

PLAYOFFS 2011, Western Wonders

2011-04-11T07:05:00.000-07:00

Oh snap, I can't wait. And yes I think the Hawks will knock out Vancouver 1st round once again getting rid of the President's Trophy winner good and early.

CANUCKS & HAWKS
Chicago just slipped into that eighth spot by the skin of their teeth, and although I'd like them too, I'm not thinking they are going to go too far but I am sure that their determination will rocket them past Vancouver. I mean despite the fact that Ryan Kesler is a beautiful hat trick scoring man, who manages to creep in the right places at the right time. But this series is a must see. These two teams have faced each other in many a playoff series and never disappoint.

Project Winner--> Hawks in 7

SHARKS & KINGS
sfkjsjlna! This series is going to be a page turner, I mean if hockey had pages. These two Cali teams will be anything but laid back and I think the winner could surprise you. The return of Anze Kopitar will be pivital if it occurs, and stars of the sharks such as Dany Heatley and rookie Logan Coture are ready to battle. Look forward to a lot of interesting game play. I think this is the series that is most up in the air.

Projected Winner--> LA Kings in 6

WINGS & COYOTES

Despite all of the legal battles of Phoenix this year, the Coyotes have had a strong time and have defeated some of the leagues strongest teams. But I do not think they will be able to take down the Wings. Even with a possible Zetterberg injury, and the goaltending scatters the Wings have had an exceptional year and an exceptional roster. I think they can really go far in this year's post season and will have little trouble defeating the Coyotes.

Projected Winner--> Wings! wings!

DUCKS & PREDS

Two words: Ryan Getzlaf. Seriously I'm banking on the Ducks here, with Jonas Hiller's strong goal tending this season and they have Ray Emery, remember that one time when i love him!? These two teams tied the end of the season with 99 points. Of course there is also Corey Perry who took the Rocket Richard Trophy. Yeah I'm looking forward to a good series, but I think the luck is on the side of Anaheim.

Projected Winner--> Quack Quack ;)

PLAYOFFS 2011, Eastern Shenanigans

2011-04-11T06:43:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited, it should be criminal to be this happy.
So the schedule was released about an hour and a half, and I've done nothing but hockey related things plus eat candy with my roomates since then. I think it is going to be a great year for post-season series and there are a few I'm exceptionally looking forward to. Here's a quick preliminary excitement chatter!

CAPS & RANGERS
A match made in NHL on NBC heaven. Seriously correct me if I'm wrong but every game of the week had either Pens, Caps, Rangers, Philly, Hawks, or Wings involved somehow. Anyways so this series is going to be hard and fast, no kidding around. Ryan Callahan broke his ankle last week which could prove problematic to New York, but I'm afraid also of Washington's determination to actually make it past a round one.

Projected Winner--> I'm going to say Caps as much as it pains me. I think that even though good ol' Henrich is a beautiful man and a great goaltender he will not be able to hold off the likes of Knuble, Fehr, and cough cough I guess Ovechkin.

FLYERS & SABRES
Omgeno, I'm most excited for this series. It is going to be great! Watching this all come together I was hoping Buffalo would have a chance to showdown with Philly. For some reason I feel like if anyone had what it takes to knock 'em out first round it would be my dear R.Mills and the scoring wonder that has been Thomas Vanek. Philly is all about the physicality and the dirty goals and I think if Buffalo can push back enough and not let that bother them, they can best the average goaltending. OH! I'm just excited to watch this one unfold.

Projected Winner--> Please say Buffalo!! I'm going on faith here.

BRUINS & HABS

Now here's a rivalry and anger that is pretty much unprecedented. Since the original six, these two teams have built up enough tension to explode a volcano. Thinking about their few meetings just this year, there is enough to make this a potentially violent and high scoring match up. From the escapades of the Chara hit on Patches, to the plethora of fights, I'm excited that these teams will be able to knock out one of each other.

Projected Winner--> I'm really not sure, but I hope Boston.

PENS & LIGHTNING

SO EXCITED! Ideally of the other Eastern conference teams, the Lightning is a good first round match up for the Pens. Their goal tending does not intimidate me, I'm not really worried about any of our players getting further injured. But they are a talented team and I'm looking forward to seeing a clean match up of talents and a probably pretty tied series. I'm thinking 5/6 games.

Project Winner--> Penguins in 5/6 games. Flower needs to stay strong and We need to keep our forwards healthy, I'm predicting lots of overtime in this series and honestly what is more wonderful than Playoff overtime? nothing. that's right.

Oxygen is resurfacing.

2011-03-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

Yep. It's almost playoffs. I can breathe! I'm so excited!
Obviously like everyone I've been keeping an eye on the standings but the current "if playoffs started today..." chart on NHL.com is ideal. I like it. http://www.nhl.com/ice/standings.htm?type=pla&intcmpid=nhln-button

It has for Eastern Series:

Philly v. Buffalo
Washington v. NY Rangers
Boston v. Canadiens
Pens v. Lightning

I would love ALL of these series and let me tell you why!
Buffalo kicked Philadelphia's butt a few months ago and if R.mills tends strongly, Buffalo could actually knock out right now one of the most serious Stanley Cup contenders. I know I hate to say it, but they are, they keep winning. At any rate, I think it would be a great series to watch because the Sabres wouldn't so much put up with the Flyers physical brutality shenanigans.

Caps and Rangers. I can't even tell you. I dislike both of them, and to have one of them knocked out early, I'm a fan. I think that the Caps would probably end up winning the series, but the rangers would give them a run and there would be so much hockey to watch so good so good hockey! and I hope Sean Avery would fight some one I dislike. Entertainment.

Bruins v. Canadiens. Could there be a more perfect matchup? All that these teams have been through in their history, let alone the past few weeks would make this series a must watch. I really hope these two teams do meet first round. It would probably be a very physical series, and may even result in some suspensions. I hope no one would get hurt, but I'm thinking the strong rivalry would make this a 7-gamer and some great hockey. Plus it would exhaust the winning team before next round, which is always a good thing.

Pens v. Lightning. I like it. Out of the top 8, if I had to choose a first round opponent for the Pens (ignorning rankins) I would either choose Tampa Bay or Buffalo. I know Tampa Bay has some big guns, St. Louis, Lecaviler, Stamkos, etc. But let's face it, their goaltending is shaky at best. Our defense would really need to step up, because we all saw what happend last weekend against Montreal... but I really think we would have little trouble defeating them.

Fingers crossed that things don't change much. I like them the way they are... bring on the playoffs.

Oh and some quick notes on the west:

WINGS v. HAWKS? YES PLEASE. That's hockey to die for. Howard against Towes and Sharp? Heck yes. I really don't know who would win this one. But either of these teams could make it to the finals and to have one knocked out right away would be bet breaking and earth shattering.

Phoenix & Kings. Go Kings. Go Kings. I can say this because 1. I love the kings, 2. I love Anze Kopitar and 3. Scottie Upshall now plays for CBJ.

OMGENO I can't wait for April 13.

Will Dustin Jeffrey save the pens?

2011-02-06T08:25:00.000-08:00

I'm betting on him.
The icing on the injury cake was Geno tearing his MCL & ACL on Friday. I was at the game to see it happen. It was sad. But with everything piling up, we will be missing Geno, Sid, Asham, Letestu, and more today.

Did I mention that today we play the Caps on NBC game of the week?
Pierre Mcguire's going to have a field day.

But I'm not giving up hope yet. I'm placing all of my hope on the Baby Pens and WB to lead us into the Post Season and hold us over until Oh Captain my Captain makes his triumphant return. Dustin Jeffrey has been an offensive machine lately, and today he will be winged by recently called up Tim Wallace, who is coincidentally one of his wingers in Wilkes-Barre.

Eric Big Dog Tandgradi has also been called up, and I'm looking for an all WB fourth line this afternoon. I'm confident that the new additions mixed with the determination of Pittsburgh and of the called up AHL-ers can carry us forward. Injuries are detrimental and the most recently rolling ones have been hurting everyone's morale including my own for life. But we have a talented buncha kids out there and I have faith that we can get through this and go into the Post Season strong and ready to go.

I'm just hoping we don't play like Filfthidelphia or Montreal first round. There injury prone, cage fighting antics, could end our run. We can't afford another injury.

Also, I feel like if we keep going and winning and doing awesome with the players we have, when the super stars return (I mean we still have Max Talbo, thank goodness) we will have an all around discustingly strong team, which could be unstoppable.

Moral: Don't Stop Believing.
Other Moral: And please note this because it doesn't happen often here:

photo by: Adelyn , Please note the terrible towels...

Pens defeat Sabres

2011-02-05T08:18:00.000-08:00

Hereeeessss JOHNNY!

2011-02-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Brent loves life, this we know.
And last night he proved that he is a force to be reckoned with, and that he can throw one heck of a punch.
That's my boy.

There are just so many great parts to this, I don't even know where to begin. Errey & Staggy get so out of control excited! Fleury's excitement for Johnson when he returns to the bench.

I mean I think it was a great choice on the part of Johnson. He had absolutely nothing to lose. With 16 seconds to go in the game and a 2-0 lead since halfway through the first, add in a empty net, and it was a recipe to teach DiPietro how not to act as a goaltender.

His cheap shot on Matt Cooke made him look like a sore loser and made some penguins, mainly one backup goal tender who notched a shut out last night, angry.

It has been clear for a while that a new goaltender could be helpful for the Islanders which is way they claimed Evgeni Nabokov on waivers. Unfortunatley for them, he is not a big fan of the acquisition and has decided to not show up. GM Garth Snow has seen no choice but to suspend him, and it doesn’t seem to be doing much to change Nabokov’s mind. He told ESPN he is sticking with his decision.

At any rate, Goaltenders are a fascinating race of humans. Johnson is a fabulous player, a star backup and just the kind of man I'd want on my team.

All Stars Draftin' it up.

2011-01-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

Last night was 'ze draft for Sunday's All star Game and I'm a little bit torn as to which team to vote for. Here's how it played out:

Team STAAL

Eric Staal, C, Carolina*Captain
Ryan Kesler,C, Vancouver
Alex Ovechkin, C (This C, unlike the others which mean center, is short for something else), Washington
Patrick Sharp,C, Chicago
Paul Stastny,C, Colorado
Jeff Skinner,C, Carolina
Daniel Sedin, LW, Vancouver
Rick Nash, RW, Columbus
Claude Giroux, RW, Philadelphia
David Backes, RW, St. Louis
Patrik Elias, LW, New Jersey
Corey Perry, RW, Anaheim
Mike Green, D (This d, unlike the others does not stand for defenseman) Washington
Zdeno Chara, D, Boston
Marc Staal, N.Y. D, Rangers
Dan Boyle, D, San Jose
Erik Karlsson,D, Ottawa
Kris Letang, D,Pittsburgh
Cam Ward, G, Carolina
Henrik Lundqvist, G, N.Y. Rangers
Carey Price, G, Montreal

Team LIDSTROM

Matt Duchene,C, Colorado
Anze Kopitar, C, Los Angeles
Brad Richards, C,Dallas
Jonathan Toews, C, Chicago
Henrik Sedin, C, Vancouver
Steven Stamkos, C,Tampa Bay
Patrick Kane, RW, Chicago
Martin St. Louis, RW, Tampa Bay
Phil Kessel, RW, Toronto
Loui Eriksson, RW, Dallas
Martin Havlat, RW, Minnesota
Daniel Briere, RW, Philadelphia
Nicklas Lidstrom, D, Detroit *Captain
Brent Burns,D, Minnesota
Keith Yandle, D,Phoenix
Dustin Byfuglien,D, Atlanta
Shea Weber, D,Nashville
Duncan Keith, D,Chicago
Jonas Hiller, G,Anaheim
Marc-Andre Fleury,G, Pittsburgh
Tim Thomas,G, Boston

(broken down roster info from http://www.newsobserver.com/2011/01/29/953016/all-star-rosters.html)

So I mean you can see my dilemma. For starters, in my opinion, some of the bestest NHL stars will not even be playing and thus the title All Star Game has a hint of false advertising. With Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Jarome Iginla out due to injury some of the best in the world will be sidelined for the matchup and super skills test. This is simply ignoring the fact that my favorite goal tender of all time (R.Mills) is not anywhere to be seen on the roster.

With that out of my system, I can choose a team!

And the winner is.... Team Lidstrom, all the way.

You see, I'm a big fan of some Marc Andre Fleury in net and Tim Thomas for that matter, whose record this season has been ungodly. These two guys will stop the likes of the other team. Defense for Team Lidstrom exceptionally strong with my second favorite offensive defenseman Dustin Byfuglien (My first is Kris Letang but he ended up on the wrong side), Duncan Keith, and of course Captain Lidstrom. These recent Stanley Cup Champs, and i know I hate to pull it in too but it's necessary, know how to get the job done.

But Let's just be honest for a second. I'm really choosing Team Lidstrom because Team Staal is composed of a representative selection of my least favorite hockey players, and well people for that matter. Ovechkin. Green. P.K.Subban even ended up on Team Staal's rookies. I mean add in some Scotty Hartnell and Carcillo and you'd have the entire collection of Disney villains. B

So yeah, um Super Skills test tonight at 7 p.m.

Game Tommorow at 4 p.m.

Both on Versus!

Just Saying...

2011-01-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

These two look an awful lot a like, its uncanny.

Geno scores with LIGHTNING speed.

2011-01-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

So I had hoped to comment extensively on The Winter Classic, but I just can't. I did go skating at the community rink in the A.E. parking lot, and it was fabulous. I'll just tell you that the set up was beautiful and I'm happy I got to experience a little piece of it.

I must admit that the Penguins and I were in a bit of a fight after that new years incident, but any broken- heartedness quickly disappeared while watching tonight's offensive display of fireworks of wonder and awe. Seven seconds into the game at home against Tampa Bay this evening, Geno nailed the puck to it's rightful spot behind the net with LIGHTNING speed. (Come on now, that's awful punny) That was the fastest goal since 1998,Geno out there looking like Hercules on a cold day.

Tonight's game was really how Harry got that crazy Lightning bolt scar....

The game found itself at 5-0 Pens at the end of the first, and I was actually disappointed that Tangers didn't score to make it 6-0 on that last rush before the buzzer!

Poor Stamkos. Honestly man I just don't know what to do with you. TBL did play last night and defeated the Caps in OT after both teams went scoreless for 60 minutes of game play. Tiredness from traveling is a factor indeed, but what a trip. I sorta feel bad that the entire crowd laughed, but I couldn't help but chuckle myself.

It almost looks like someone just jynxed the Lightning this evening, they just can't get anything right. Stamkos' slow motion fall almost looked like the work of a voodoo doll. Madness. I love it.

As for Roloson, he was just acquired by Tampa Bay on Saturday from the Islanders in exchange for some draft picks. He had a rough night also, pulled & then put back in.

Eleven Penguins ended up on the score sheet. It's free assist night at Consol Energy Center, and I'm sad I'm not there. I hate missing the promotional games...

Kunekaze with his second career hat trick, and no one at Consol even noticed until someone did and threw a hat on the ice. I'm surprised people didn't throw their assists on the ice...

p.s. I'm obsessed with Bob Errey, so cute. Touchdown Pittsburgh (Penguins).

Final score 8-1, not too shabby.

Is goaltending a serious issue?

2010-10-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

Last night brought another loss in the new Consol Center, and I'm starting to wonder why the Pens just can't seem to take off running. In the last two minutes of last night's game, I saw desperation and some decent shots, Where was that the rest of the game?

I'm beginning to fear that goal tending could become a serious issue this year and I read this morning that Johnson is starting on Friday and possibly Saturday as well.

Pittsburgh has a pretty intense weekend ahead of them, and if something doesn't improve it could be a couple of very hard losses. Friday we play the Islanders, who with some recent roster additions are really scaring me this year. I think have the makings of something awesome, and could be a serious contender.

Saturday is a rematch in Philly. If we loose to the Flyers twice in one month, my general outlook on existence will decrease in happiness. So I'm voting put Johnson in net and hope that some of our best guys recover their injuries.

A little bit more superstar treatment would be nice as well, I was loving it last night ;)

Johnson saves the day && other wonderful updates

2010-10-13T08:46:00.000-07:00

So Monday's game was a wonderful birthday present. The empty net goal was literally the icing on the skates for former Devil Paul Martin, against a minuscule in size, but booing and unhappy crowd of fans in New Jersey.

The game was an entertaining experience and it was nice to beat the devils, after loosing all six matches against them last year. The unfortunate but true part is that the victory has to be attributed to the Penguin's defense headed by backup goaltender Brent Johnson, and not enough credit given to the Penguins offense.

Crosby still hasn't notched a goal yet, and the majority of goals scored in the first three games this season have come from defense men, namely Mark Letestu. With all of our traditionally strong goalscorers, something needs to change and soon.

A wonderful change would be the return of center J. Staal. (WHO BTW, according to this morning's penguins.nhl.com report skated at practice today) He is recovering from that injury that we can thank Montreal's P.K. Subban for last postseason.

His return could be just the push that the pens offense needs, but his return date is not set yet. Brooks and Zbynek Michalek did not skate this morning and join Staal on the list on injured players not playing tonight against the Maple Leafs.

I also read today that Grandpa Billy Guerin stopped by practice this morning. I miss him very much, and am just beginning to take note of the effect that loosing all of the Penguin's elders has had on the chemistry of the team. The leadership and experience that Guerin, Gonchar, and even Fedotenko shared with the young team must have been valuable. This year's penguins team is primarily young, which has its ups and downs, but long story short its been a rough start to the season.

There are games in three of the next four days, an exhausting schedule for Pittsburgh, but also a chance to get out of the groove and restart the season right.

Tonight vs. Maple Leafs, 7 p.m.

Let's go pens.

Struggles open the Consol Energy Center

2010-10-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

So the Pens are off to a bit of a rough start.

After the first loss to the Flyers (wow, that is painful to type), everyone justified it by saying "Oh, we opened the Civic Arena with the loss, closed the Mellon with a loss, it is only right to open the Consol with a loss." And maybe that's taking the easy way out, but I bought it until last night.

Last night we should have been out for justice, though that is a little difficult without Billy old man, Billy Guerin Guerin. Seriously thought, I was expecting to see an intensely strong offense battling to show up Montreal who kicked us out of the way of another Stanley Cup pursuit and fighting to get some numbers on the board for the new arena. It just wasn't strong enough.

I was thinking that with out Jaroslav Halak, they would have nothing. I mean we can get the puck past Carey Price, right? Guess not.

But I'm not loosing hope and I'm not pessimistic. The more I see of our newcomers and the new team, the more confidence I have in this season and what can be accomplished. I sort of love Mike Comrie as a center and Geno as his winger. I also love that he can put up a good fight when needed.

As for the loss overall, I think the Penguins tend to have a 'rival mindset' that they get into when facing a big foe or what they perceive as a big game. It occurs occasionally with the Caps, Flyers, Wings, and I guess now the Habs. Without the mindset, I think we could have easily topped these teams, but it is going to take some breaking and some team-bonding.

Let's go boys.

In other totally not important, but exciting news:

- Did anyone see that sticker get stuck to Geno's pants last night? Lol!
- I sort of hate seeing Paul Martin wearing the #7, because like every five minutes I think to myself 'Yay! Marc Eaton!' and it's not him....
- I'm REALLY starting to dislike P.K. Subban almost an intense Scotty Hartnell level
- Two words: HAL GILL

Waiting for tonight, oh!

2010-10-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

So Tonight is the night we've all been waiting for. The Penguins take on the Flyers at the energy center in its first-ever regular season home game.

It seems like Asham and Staal will both be missing tonight's game. Staal's still due to be out for a while, and Asham's on day-to-day. I seriosuly hope he plays tonight though, I was epically awaiting his battle against his former team. I mean if you can venture as far as to call the Flyers a team. The good news is that the Pens play them again, this time away, on Oct. 16. AND again, home, on Oct. 29--Just three more reasons why October is the most fabulous month of year, besides my birthday and Halloween, and SAW 3D and general mayhem.

Its great to see the support downtown today. Everyone is sporting their Pens gear, especially their Brooks Orpik and J. Staal gear, our new team captains as announced yesterday.

At any rate, tonight's epicness will be thoroughly unmatched until January 1st's winter classic madness, and it is one of those games I don't want to examine and pick apart. I just want to enjoy it. So Pittsburgh, inhale, take it in and enjoy this wonderful sunny October thursday where the penguins take on their nemesis, full of energy in the energy center.

I know, right? Its punny and witty.

Let's Go Pens<3

Preseason Wrapppped up.

2010-10-04T07:38:00.001-07:00

The preseason came to an end yesterday with a 5-2 win in the Joe Louis and I think it showed us a lot about what this year is going to look like. All of the preseason games were pretty exceptionally high scoring, with four out of six games ending with four or five goals.

The Pens took their only loss against the Blackhawks on Oct. 1, after defeating them Tuesday before. I'd love to say that the high scoring and the offensive dominance that we saw in these early games was a microcosm for the season to come, but I never think it is that simple.

I think injuries will continue to plaque Pittsburgh, but hopefully not in damaging amounts. Right now we have J. Staal out until possible Thanksgiving, Sidney is injured but is projected to still play on Thursday, and Asham, Brooks, and Ryan Craig were also out due to various injuries. But I think Brooks and Asham will make a return for the epicness that will occur on Oct. 7.

Now I have to be totally honest. I STILL have so much trouble routing for Arron Asham. I spent such a long time of my life making jokes at his expense during this past years Stanley Cup Finals, and he is such a formidable foe and villain when he played for the Flyers. It's hard to see him switch sides and immediately embrace him. Anyone else having issues?

There is one thing that's been helping though-- Asham-Talbot-Cookie. That line made its debut at a few early preseason games, and I have to admit that it strikes terror in the hearts of all. It could be just the amount of physicality that we need to dominate this season. I'd love to see some more of this line and maybe, just maybe embrace newcomer Asham.

Mike Comrie is a newcomer that has been MUCH easier to embrace. He's been scoring goals left and right and almost had the hat trick night. (But everybody knows almost doesn't count) I hope he keeps up the offensive pressure and everyone's hoping to see a little bit of Lizzy McGuire, I mean Hilary Duff in the burgh!

So yes, there is plenty of excitement and I can't wait for Thursdays match-up and CONSUL regular season opener against Philly. The only word that can describe it is EPIC. And I'm pretty sure I'll forgive Asham for his previous life as soon as I see him hit Hartnell or score something epic.

Let's go Pens!

Monday, Back from the dead!

2010-09-20T08:33:00.000-07:00

To quote some Stone Temple Pilots "Days of the Week", Its Monday and i"m back from the dead. At least that's how I feel from all of the craziness going on in my life, and the fact that I'm officially in hockey-season mode.

Yesterday I went to the Consol Energy Center for the open practice and have much to say about that later. For now let me just tell you that it is GORGEOUS and more importantly that it is totally true what they say about being able to see from pretty much every seat. My roommates and I sat in 6 different seats before it was all said and done, ranging from the nosebleeds to the second row behind the ice. Each and every seat was uncannily comfortable and even little short me could see the ice and the entire game-play well.

But what I really felt like discussing today was this video on nhl.com discussing the new rules and rule enforcements for the upcoming year. Maybe I love controversy, or maybe I just love defending Matt Cooke but I'm going to hold them to what they say and will be upset if the rules are unevenly enforced as in past seasons.

"lateral and blindside hits that make principle contact with the head" is said to now warrant a major penalty and a game misconduct.

I love dearly how they use the Cooke hit on Savard to be the example. I really do. Ha, but then its the Flyers. (Side note, I cannot wait for Oct. 7, its going to change my life, seriously)

So all that being said, I agree with the rules totally. Hockey is a brutal game, which I love about it, but safety should always be first. My complaint comes in when it is only illegal for certain players and teams, and for others it goes unnoticed. My big hope for this year is even enforcement of this rule, keeping all players safe, and game play fair.

I'd love to hear how other people feel about this, any opinions??

P.S.
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/466652-five-choices-for-pittsburgh-penguins-alternate-captains-in-2010-2011

I hope Cookie and Orpik wear the A ;)

Offseason reporting and resorting!

2010-07-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

While Chicago snacks on "Cupcakes" and Kovalchuck hopes he finds a high paying gig somewhere that the NHL will actually approve, the Penguins dive into training camps and work to mesh with the new recruits.

The defensive line-up has changed the most so far this summer as we lost Sergei Gonchar to the Senators and my dear Marc Eaton to the Islanders. (I think we are going to miss him most of all because I still think he is the only player who decided to show up for game seven against the Canadians.)

But as always, the city knows they can trust expert wheeler and dealer Ray Shero who has chosen blueliners Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek as well as most recently defensemen, Corey Potter. And oh by the way, I hope Corey Potter does really well here because I am already craving a Potter Penguins jersey. It doubles as a Muggle fan item and hockey gear! Talk about versatile clothing! Just kidding.... a little bit.

It's also going to be quite a new year for the Penguins and Pittsburgh fans in general. Let's recap quickly all of the fantastic things leading up to this 2010/2011 season.

1. The WINTER CLASSIC at Heinz Field
2. the winter classic against the CAPITALS! Although no one is looking forward to hearing about the Crosby/Ovechkin rivalry for like 8 years. Really people? There is a plethra of exciting circumstances surrounding this game it is not just that one rivalry that people who know nothing about hockey seem to enjoy... just saying=)
3. A brand spanking new arena
4. A serious Stanley Cup run, and yes its over-discussed but I think we are going to bring it home again.

So let me know what you are thinking about this upcomming season, what trades we should still make (obviously we are still hoping to bag some wingers) and how you think the draft picks will play into the season?

Let's go Pens<3

Game 7 in the Igloo-- Emotions and talent run free

2010-05-12T08:12:00.000-07:00

Wow. I never thought that this series would reach a game seven. Even more, with so much on the line. Tonight, if things go terribly wrong, could be the last meltdown the Igloo ever sees. But I don't think that is going to happen.

Jaroslav Halak's goaltending has been pretty impressive so far in the 2010 playoffs. He's stopped numerous 5 on 3 attempts coming from the viscous Capitals lineups, he has made the saves to send the Presidential Trophy-winning team home crying, he's even made it very challenging for Geno and Sid the Kid-- each only getting one goal behind him in the so-far six game series.

This man is an "X" factor and he's carried Montreal places that they never expected to go. Like to the Igloo, to the most powerful game seven this city has seen in a while.

Yes, Pittsburgh made it through a Game seven with both the Capitals and the Red Wings to win the Cup last year. But not with the Igloo's last game and a lot of justice and anger on the line.

Marc Andre Fleury's game seven experience is valuable. VERY VALUABLE tonight. He's done it before and he can do it again.

Many people have been blaming him for the recent losses, but I simply can't. It is a true fact that the Penguins can dominate a period, give up two or three shots to the Canadians and in doing so make it 1-0 Canadians. But, Marc Andre just has to keep making his saves, and the Pittsburgh defense needs to kick it up a notch.

I've seen some lazy turnovers, and shots that should not have open or able. They need to polish their passing and play an old-school game of keep away to keep up domination and bring home the win.

I will admit that I am a little afraid. But I know that Pittsburgh will be fighting with all they've got to win this. And you know how dangerous a team can be when they want something badly.

I'm predicting tonight will either be a blowout ending with the Penguins ahead by like four goals or it will go into overtime and stay neck-and-neck. I'm not seeing anything in between occurring today. The Penguins will rally a win on home ice, their way or the high way.

It will also be nice to have a respectable crowd that doesn't scream and jeer the entire time, just saying.

In other news:

The Hawks won their series last night bringing the Western Conference to a closing series of San Jose v. Chicago. I can't say I'm surprised because many people, including myself tagged the Hawks to go to the finals to begin with. But I am sure of one thing-- the Sharks will not succumb easily. They have certainly got some spunk in them.

Boston and Philly meet for a game six tonight. The Flyers face elimination once again and are beginning to embarrass the Bruins, who at one time held a 3-0 lead. I think it is very possible that they could force a game seven. But if the Bruins come on strong they way that they did in their first few games, they could secure themselves that spot fighting for the Prince of Wales trophy.

Game 7 in Pittsburgh, 7p.m.
Game 6 in Philly,8p.m.

Game 5: The Defense

2010-05-09T15:43:00.000-07:00

Game five found itself at home at the Igloo, and I think may have changed the momentum of this series indefinitely. Pittsburgh taking a 2-0 lead and keeping it for all but 35 seconds of the game was a pretty impressive feat, accomplished by the Penguin defense.

The two goals, coming from defensemen Sergei Gonchar and Kris Letang, gave this still shockingly low scoring Penguins round two team all that they needed to win it. Marc Eaton and Brooks Orpik were kind of the unsung stars of last night's matchup. Brooks' hitting and Eaton's never ending power kill abilities aided the Flower in stopping goals in what was close to a second shutout.

That last goal that slipped in from Montreal was iffy at best. I'm pretty sure everyone and their mother (Happy Mother's day by the way) thought the puck was covered. Turns out it wasn't, and it snuck underneath Marc-Andre and slowly into the net.

Yikes, I'm sick of only having a one goal lead. Seriously, to take the series home on Monday Pittsburgh needs to master Halak and make this a four or five goal game.

Versus actually showed Vladamir and Natalia! I'm not sure who insisted that they should, but I won't lie, It totally made my day. Momma Malkin was watching on as Evgeni played an amazing game with many chances but no goals. You know how they have those Ovechkams and all that icky stuff? Well they could put that technology to good use and make a Malkin's parents Cam! I'm pretty sure everyone would love to watch their game-side reactions! Let's do it!

IN other news, San Jose knocked Detroit out last night despite the desperate pleas of Wings fans everywhere. I'm happy San Jose finally dropped their playoff curse, if you will, but also sad to see the Red Wings go.

Game 6, Montreal, 7p.m., Versus. Bring it.

Oh and I'm thinking the Bruins will wrap up tonight. Unless Gagne pulls out another game winner and makes it a six-game series?

Eight teams enter, only four will emerge (Says the Versus commerical I've seen about 150,000 times)

2010-05-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

All four series of round two make my world go round.
Somehow, like magic, there is a game on versus every night. And even more, somehow, I've been able to watch every game because my dad picked the most amazing week for us to go on vacation. My vacation has been watching hockey, hockey, and more hockey. Oh, and getting sunburnt, but who really cares about that?

Vancouver v. Chicago
This rematch has been so interesting. Everyone's predicting Chicago for the finals, but after they lost 5-1 in Game one, who wouldn't have their doubts. But last night, I watched a triumphant come back including a Patrick Kane hat trick off of the weirdest empty net bounce goal ever. Chicago pulled another win to make it 2-1. They play tonight and my money (figuratively speaking of course) is still on Chicago.

San Jose v. Detroit
Two words: Johan Franzen. The Sharks led the series 3-0, and most people thought they were going to wrap it up last night. The Wings had another plan in mind. They may be an older team, but they had all the spunk of a junior league last night, staying alive by winning 7-1. They scored seven goals!? Five in the first period! And four of them coming from Johan Franzen. Nobody totally rule out a Detroit-Pittsburgh rematch just yet.... (Just Kidding). Maybe.

Boston v. Philly
This one is huge, because we could play the winner, and I'm not sure I want us to play either of these guys. Words aren't even needed to discuss the icky-ness and brutality brought about by another series versus the Flyers. But with Savard back and Miro Satan's sudden success, Boston could be a rivalry to remember. Boston currently leads the series 3-0, and at the end of the first period they are tied at one. I'm not sure the outcome of the series, but I doubt the Flyers will be swept. Some extreme showdown is going to occur. I wouldn't expect more or less. (Let's just hope there is no cannibalism)

Predictions, anyone, anyone, Bueller?

Game 4: The Crowd

2010-05-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

Well, My initial prediction for this series was six games, and it's really looking to be a possibility.

After capturing a 2-1 lead in the first, thanks to some superstar treatment on a breakway and some magic off of Kunitz's skates, the Penguins appeared to have things wrapped up. Montreal started off strong, but once the Pens gained the lead, they continued to dominate the shots and momentum for the better part of two periods.

Unfortunately, the scoreboard did not reflect the game as well as most would like. It was only a one goal game for Montreal and the crowd wanted to make sure they didn't forget it.

Beginning with jeering Fleury's name just minutes into the third period, Canadian fans continued to be rude, loud, and excited. I'm not sure if it was the uncalled for jeering or the pep talk generated for Halak and the gang, but either way the crowd played a huge role in this game.

Good for them that they have the passion and excitement to help seal the deal, but I'm just saying Pittsburgh fans don't jeer. Unless it's Scotty Hartnell and no matter where you are from, you know that doesn't count.

Call me old fashioned but I feel like jeering is only necessary if you have a serious lead or there is an intense shoot-out.

At any rate, the Penguins came up short. Halak's goal tending was strong. No matter how many shots, breakaways, or madness the Pens brought to the net, nothing would go in.

At least they didn't get the empty net.

Game 5 is home in the 'burg and if the Pittsburgh crowd can play the role well, perhaps this can be a six game series. I know Pittsburgh will come out on top.

Saturday, 7 p.m.

Game 3: Marc Andre Fleury

2010-05-04T19:20:00.000-07:00

Game three tonight in Montreal was sure to be viscous and desperate. But no one expected the actual measure of intensity.

Scoreless for two periods followed by a yard sale of fighting, violence, and frustration. Its images like that that remind you why people love hockey so much.

Montreal had not been shutout in the playoffs for 118 games not since 1983, I heard on Versus. There is no denying Marc Andre was totally on his game tonight, number one star, stepping up to show that he is the deserving goal tender and he's ready for another long cup run.

The versus announcers were just talking about how the Canadians were shutting out Geno and Sid before they went to commercial break. After that break, Geno showed them just how much of a "riot" he is scoring the first and only goal on either of the goaltenders tonight. Dupuis would later score an empty net.

I think this game changed the momentum of the series but Game four will even be more servere than today-- Oh yes, there will be blood, to quote a tagline from SAW. ha ha. I'm sorry but it is necessary. The fighting and level of physical play was unmatched, and so bring on Thursday night.

Game 2: Jaroslav Halak

2010-05-02T19:27:00.000-07:00

A disappointing night for Pittsburghers around the world. Like myself, in a city in Carolina, where actually no one cares about hockey.

Seriously no one. I was eating lunch with my parents and asked the bartender to put on the hockey game and he was pretty confused. Nascar is a big deal around here, and after watching Pittsburgh lose painfully on home ice, I wish I could care more about Nascar than hockey.

Except I don't, and probably never will.

So as for the game, Jaroslav Halak teared it up tonight. Watching him shut down Ovechkin and those monstrous Capitals was insanely enjoyable. There is no denying that he is an incredibly talented goal-tender.

But man, It is so frustrating to watch our power forwards hopeless and helpless.

At least our defense is strong. Except Jordan Staal left the ice after having a tendon in his foot torn by the blade of P.K. Suddan. Struggling to make up for his possibly long absence will be painful. I always say on any other team,he could be the biggest star of their city. Our Sidney Crosby, if you will. But he is staying with us and making his unbeatable and indestructable.

I don't think this loss will greatly affect the outcome of the series. I have lots of hope in Marc-Andre and in those great Pittsburgh power forwards.

The Penguins have something that few other really teams have-- which is the "hunger". A whole city is backing them and counting on them and they know that they can do it. They know they can make it happen, they've done it before and they can do it again.

I'm only missing Hal Gill a little, because I can't help but see him as a traitor...He's just so tall and wonderful and good at penalty killing. Somehow, we will have to beat him and get the edge on the road trip.

Its all about the Goal (tending). "Wanna be somebody?"

2010-04-27T07:48:00.000-07:00

Last night was make it or break it for a lot of teams. There are only two series pushing onto a game seven.

It's was all about the goaltenders last night and my number one star pick of the evening would be Jaroslav Halak. He showed one of the best displays of goalkeeping that I have ever seen. He came very close to shutting out the Capitols, except for a fluky goal that slipped past him towards the end of the third period. Montreal's offensive was very on as well, but shutting down the Caps offensive when they had a couple of 5 on 3s and what seemed like endless power plays, won the game for the Canadians. This forced a game seven which will be played Wednesday at 7pm. If that kind of goal keeping keeps up, I think the Canadians (Knock on wood!) have a chance of eliminating the Caps.

Now what would that mean for the Penguins? Were down to two possible round two opponents: the Canadians or the Bruins. Both would be interesting series. And I want very much for the Caps to loose, but Caps v. Flyers would be one of the most vicious series.

Also last night, Chicago slipped past the predators to win the series. This was another goal-tender slip up. Nashville had a great chance to stop the Hawk's momentum on Saturday. There was like 54 seconds left in the game and they had a five minute power play. But Peca Rinne gave up the goal and Hossa went on to win it in overtime. In my opinion that is when they officially lost the series, even though the last game was last night.

And now for the sad news: the Sabres had 24 seconds left, down 4-3 fighting to stay alive. They couldn't deliver. Ryan Miller can only carry them so far, they need some better offense. I just about cried seeing Miller lose again. He looked like he was going to cry on national television for the second time this year, and its rough. I''m a huge Miller fan and he is kind of my American hero/ favorite person ever.

He has got the talent, and he'll go far. Someday he'll get that gold medal and maybe lead Buffalo to the Cup.I found the above image at an AP Winter Games story. It just portrays Ryan Miller's year pretty easily. Poor kid.

Guess this all changes my predictions a little....

Overtimes decide it all!

2010-04-25T05:15:00.000-07:00

When the Pens lost Thursday's game halfway through triple overtime, the city of Pittsburgh began to shake in their boots a little bit. But when Saturday morning came, every where I went I saw men, women, and kids in their pens gear ready to say "Sayonara Senators."

And that's exactly what happened!

The heartbreak kids came back from a three nothing deficit to win the series. Matt Cooke's offense made all of the difference. Pascal Dupuis or Dups saved the day and got number one star. At the end of the game, Pittsburgh had a lower number of hits even though they played a pretty physical game. I'm fully convinced that this is because Cookie Monster was too busy scoring goals, and I'm totally cool with it.

DONE, DONE, AND WERE ONTO THE NEXT ONE! (Here is the offical theme song of Icing on the Skates moving on in the Playoffs) Heck it worked last year, and who doesn't love the foo fighters?

Around the NHL:

Flyers win.

San Jose Wins. (Somehow?)

"Its us game!" -Geno

2010-04-21T08:12:00.000-07:00

The Penguins lead the series three games to one. Whew. I haven't been able to write much about Playoffs yet, because I have finals right now, but trust me there is a lot of excitement going and I still have many opinions to share.

Sidney Crosby is a freak of nature. He showed the most extreme exhibit of athleticism I've ever seen to assist Letang for the Game winning goal of Game two. He scored the GWG of Game 3. And last night, he notched two goals and two assists. This man is going to lead the city of Pittsburgh to another cup, I can feel it!

We have also been playing awesome because our clutch time players have been stepping it up when it matters. So far this series there have been goals from CRAIG ADAMS, an SHG from Max Talbot (What if he didn't get super star treatment?), Billy Guerin, and Jordan Staal.

The Pens defense men like Marc Eaton, Sergei Gonchar, and Brooks Orpik have been on their highest "A" game despite being attacked by the Senators. Ruutu, Neil, and Alfredsson need to calm down a little bit. Or the Refs need to start penalizing them appropriately?

I"m almost afraid to put Matt Cooke on the ice, except he can defend himself. I don't remember Ruutu being quite so violent when he played but maybe he was? Maybe he just wishes he still played for us.

But Game 5 is Friday in 'da Burg and unless some monumental fail occurs, the Penguins will advance to round two.

Around the NHL:

The Sharks and AVs are ties at two. I'm amazed the Sharks didn't choke completly to be honest. I'm predicting Avalanche with the win. I think San Jose is a better team but for some reason they aren't getting the job done.

The Predators lead the Hawks two games to one. I'm totally shocked! I thought Chicago would have this one in the bag and make it to the finals effortlessly. But now I'm not so sure. I would be happy to see the Predators win the series but I'm still betting on the Hawks. (Although I listened to the Hossa Song this morning and laughed, maybe his curse will hold them back?)

Caps lead Candadians 2-1. The only thing I'm saying is "Go Hal Gill".

The Flyers lead Devils three games to one. I don't want to say much here either because Phili is my arch nemisis, but I want them to win because I don't want Pittsburgh to have to chance their luck against Parise and those devils. (I love Parise, P.S., I'm just a little afraid of them)

L.A. Kings (with Bobby Scuderi!!) are ahead of the Canucks. OMGENO I can't even explain how happy I would be to see the Kings knock out the Canucks. I'm tired of seeing Roberto Luongo. I watched Monday's game when they pulled him and it was fantasmic. Also it is just another one of those underdog type tales... But I appreciate the Canucks, So generally I'll just wait and see how this series works out. I have no official predictions.

Wings and Coyotes tied at two thanks to Howard. This series is pretty awesome to be honest. I'm predicting Wings but kind of hoping Coyotes. P.S. watch this video that Stephen found on YouTube, according to it the Phoenix Coyotes are Canada's (and they point to Greenland) best chance at winning a Stanley cup. I especially like the part where they say since the NHL refuses to schedule the Caps and the Pens every weekend like we ask... (ha ha, NBC lives to talk about stuff like that).

Boston is one game ahead of the Sabres and it's breaking my heart. Ryan Miller was at a save percentage of 97 percent after the first two games, they need to step up the offense to win. I'm still predicting Sabres because they have a lot left in them. Just get it past Tuuka Rask, you got this!

Close, except Hossa loses again. (Today should be a national holiday!)

2010-04-14T08:15:00.001-07:00

NHL.com E.A. Games Simulation announced today it's computer simulation of the 2010 playoffs, which ends with Pittsburgh and Chicago in the finals. They say Chicago wins the cup after a seven game series. That's close to my prediction, except Pittsburgh wins, because of the Hossa curse.

Here's how the simulation worked it out:

Conference Quarterfinals
Capitals def. Canadiens, 4-0
Penguins def. Senators, 4-0
Sabres def. Bruins, 4-2
Flyers def. Devils, 4-3
Avalanche def. Sharks, 4-2
Red Wings def. Coyotes, 4-2
Canucks def. Kings, 4-1
Blackhawks def. Predators, 4-2

Conference Semifinals
Capitals def. Flyers, 4-2
Penguins def. Sabres, 4-2
Canucks def. Red Wings, 4-2
Blackhawks def. Avalanche, 4-0

Conference Finals
Penguins def. Capitals, 4-3
Blackhawks def. Canucks, 4-3

Stanley Cup Final
Game 1 -- Chicago 3, Pittsburgh 2 (OT)
Game 2 -- Pittsburgh 2, Chicago 1
Game 3 -- Chicago 4, Pittsburgh 1
Game 4 -- Pittsburgh 5, Chicago 2
Game 5 -- Chicago 5, Pittsburgh 1
Game 6 -- Pittsburgh 4, Chicago 3 (OT)
Game 7 -- Chicago 2, Pittsburgh 1 (OT)

Hey I'm pretty happy with most of that. In fact I made my bracket predictions today and they are pretty close, except I think the sharks will win first round and lose second round. But seeing all of this makes me realize how much I HOPE that the finals are Hawks v. Pens, because it would be an amazing match-up and it would be pretty awesome to beat Hossa for a third time.... just saying.

E.A. Games list of Pittsburgh Match-ups are kind of ideally exactly who I would love to see us play and beat. Pens V. Sabres would be amazing because Ryan Miller is such a formidable opponent and whenever these teams have met this year it has been a playoff-like atmosphere.

And as always, Nothing beats the sweet sweet victory of winning against the Caps. Playing the Capitals is pretty much a reason to be alive. All of the excitement that that series would bring to this city would be make the thousand dollar seats look like a bargain, and yes I would probably try to find a way to get some.

At any rate, Today is a national holiday in my mind. My second favorite (after Halloween) because today is like Hockey-solstice, the kick-off of the playoffs.

So Happy Hockey-Solstice! Don't forget to watch as much hockey as you can these upcoming weeks, and check back here for commentary and general excitement=)

A Winningest Weekend!

2010-03-08T19:15:00.000-08:00

The Penguins utalized their new players to win back to back this past Saturday and Sunday. Kunitz has been stepping up and scoring goals lately, and against most people's criticisms, I am happy to have him around.

Marc-Andre played both days, and pretty amazingly x2 I must add. Taking home a 6-3 win over the Dallas Stars, Fleury let in three goals before the Penguins defense took it up a notch as the offense banked five unanswered goals for the win.

I can't talk about the Bruin's game without bringing up the controversy. Matt Cooke's hit on Savard that knocked him unconscious and caused him to be taken away on a stretcher. Sadly, I'm going to use this little incident to dish out my feelings against NHL bias and fans that don't pay enough attention.

First of all, like many have said, the NHL has not established specific rules for such head-hit circumstances. Because of this they are "cracking down" on head injuries. But they conveniently "cracking down" only on players they feel like cracking down on, i.e. Matt Cooke, and some others. I certainly agree that the players need to be protected, I don't want anyone getting hurt. But this is a hockey game. And Matt Cooke's hit was fair. I've seen Ovechkin, Pronger, Richards, Hartnell, and others do way worse and hardly ever get the media scrutiny for it.

If Cooke is suspended, I will understand because they are trying to set a precident. But even more valuable than that are rules. Why don't they set some rules and enforce them fairly and universally throughout the NHL?

The Bruins coach and NHL fans around the net have been buzzing about how dirty of a player Matt Cooke is and how he always does cheap shots. Other fans, whose comments I read on Digg this morning, have insinuated that no penalty was called becasuse Pittsburgh is the most recent Cup Champions.

That's officially the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. If anything we have been getting bad calls made against us because of that. We certainly never get an easy break. Dallas had too many men on the ice and made changes at illegal times and get no call. Brooks Orpik gets called for breathing.

The GMs are meeting this week to work things out regarding head injuries, and I hope we see a well-thought out and reasonable overall conclusion focused on the bigger picture and the future safety of players not just the taboo of Matt Cooke.

At any rate, a rule needs to be made to protect players. It needs to be evenly enforced. And coaches should carry themselves with more dignity.

On the other hand, we saw some great Pittsburgh hockey this weekend. We are 4-0 since the Olympic break and in second place in the Eastern Conference, about 12 points behind the Caps. Sidney has finally passed Ovechkin temporarily in the goals race (they have been neck and neck for months) and I'm sure their race will continue.

The Penguins take on the Carolina Hurricanes, who sadly haven't had a very good season. I respect the hurricanes and Eric Staal, so it should be a fun match up Thursday at 7:30pm.

A Public Service Announcement

2010-03-07T05:52:00.000-08:00

So I have quite a story for you that will hopefully save you from future woes. My boyfriend and I went down to the Mellon Arena yesterday to see the game. We waited in the student rush line and they ran out of everything except standing room only, so we decided to scalp out front because we didn't want to just leave.

But we failed epically. We bought some seats, went in, got some food, and sat down. A women who worked there came over and asked for our tickets, and my heart sank-- I'm always prone to fear the worst. She explained to us that some people had "dropped" (aka left their tickets sitting somewhere) and the people who sold them to us had picked them up or stolen them. And that she would have to "escort us from the premises."

Wow. I guess karma was coming around for me. But luckily it worked out because she felt bad for us, because obviously we had no idea, and she sold us two tickets at student rush price to watch the rest of the game.

It was totally our fault to not make sure the scalper was legit, so this is a public service announcement to check IDS before buying. But those people who carelessly lost their tickets? If that were me I would have asked if anyone turned them in and if not I would have been like hm.. I'm stupid I shouldn't have left those sitting at Starbucks. It was just a general mess, and one of the most humiliating moments of my life, so of course I'm sharing it with you.

Pens defeat Rangers, and some updates!

2010-03-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Please read this Trib story, I happened upon it this morning and it was very cute.

The Pens showed the Rangers who is boss, and I just missed the game by hours, flying out of New York at 2 pm on Thursday. I did see Madison Square Garden and it was pretty cool. Visiting other arenas is always an exciting experience.

As usual, Sean Avery was a total jerk imitating Max Talbot like a 3-year-old child. But I was okay with it, because as always, the Penguins respond to violence and immaturity with goals.

The Penguins won 5-4 after an overtime game winning goal blasted by Evgeni Malkin and redirected by Jordan Staal. Other goal scorers included Kunitz, Rupp, and Goligoski.

My favorite part was that we may have only won 5-4, after pulling MAF and putting in "Johnny" as Evgeni Malkin called Brent Johnson in an after-game interview, but we outshot them 55-16. 55-16! Think about that for a minute. If we have a playoff match-up with this team, Avery will be ugly as always but I would not be concerned about a win.

TRADE DEADLINE UPDATES

Penguins new friends: Alexei Ponikarovsky who will play Saturday against the stars, and Jordan Leopold

Martin Skoula was traded along with Luca Caputi to the Maple Leafs. Caputi stayed, but Skoula ended up being traded again for a draft pick to the NJ Devils.

Ryan Whitney, an ex-penguin but old friend, ends up with the Oilers.

USA USA USA USA USA USA, Finland

2010-02-27T20:38:00.000-08:00

Team USA defeats Finland 6-1, scoring all six goals in the first period. It was looking like a free for all for the Americans and some madness it was.

Ryan Miller continues to hold strong--the only goal was scored on Tim Thomas of the Boston Bruins after Miller was taken out to rest. So basically, Miller hasn't let in a goal in the past two Olympic hockey games. When the Penguins resume next week, our first game is against Buffalo. I'm not sure if I am going to be able to want Miller to fail, he has become an American hero to me and he is a respectably amazing player!

Team Canada beat Slovakia by the hair on their chinny-chin-chin. They scored two goals early in the first period and things were going their way up until the third. Slovakia scored two goals, making it a 3-2 game in Canada's favor, and the Slovaks put on some heavy pressure for those last few minutes. Canada came through with the win, and tomorrow's game will be a rematch of last Sunday's.

I'm predicting a similar outcome. I said from the beginning that USA could take the gold and I still fully believe that. Our most serious threat is Sid the Kid, who hasn't contributed to Team Canada as much as expected so far. If he plays full-on playoff style tomorrow, there could be some serious trouble. At any rate, It will be a match to remember!

P.S. I'm watching the Bronze Medal Game happening right now,and It is a pretty serious match-up. Finland ties it at three in the third period! Marian Gaborik scored a short handed goal at the beginning of a four minute high sticking penalty, and I don't even know who to root for anymore. I'm just thinking Slovakia will suffer the curse of Hossa, and take second place and no medal.

Previews and Predictions

2010-02-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

Two games will be played today. Three of the four teams will medal, but only one will win the gold. I know you know who I'm rooting for.

USA v. Finland, 3 pm
Both teams have the momentum and talent to take the win. The Fins coming off of a very close game against Czech Republic with an ancient Jarimir Jagr. It was scoreless for two periods before Finland's Filppula finds the net and they eventually get the 2-0 win. Which is ironically almost an identical situation to USA's last game. Scoreless for two periods before Zach Parise's PPG and ending 2-0.

Team USA has very strong goaltending with Ryan Miller (who I think is the key to winning), but Finland could start Niittymaki of TBL. (who's name always makes me think of sushi and I'm sorry I know that's terrible of me to say) I think Niittymaki could strike some fear in the Americans and this could lead to another scoreless after two periods game.

But Patrick Kane, Zach Parise, Brooks Orpik, and all the Ryans want this so badly. They started out under the accusing eye of the media and have come this far against all odds. I'm prediciting Team USA with the win, but another very low scoring game.

Canada v. Slovakia
I can't believe Slovakia beat the Swedes. With Lundqvist in net and forwards like Henrich Zetterberg, and few other Henrichs, I was banking on Sweden. But Slovakia is a force to be rekoned with. It is staked with talented players including, Marian Gaborik Miro Satan, Pavol Demitra, the Hossa brothers, and Zdeno Chara. Their win was a lot of work as it was a close game aganist a formidable foe.

Canada however, loves to put on a show and is coming off an insanely easy win over the Russians due to failed goal tending. It was like a all star game. If ever there was a team that could get drunk off of a win and ride overconfident in their success it's this years Team Canada with the exception of Sidney Crosby. Sid wants the gold so badly, he will stop at nothing to get it. But I feel like Brodeur, Pronger, Richards, etc. feel like they deserve the gold and it will just happen. These psychological problems could be problematic.

I think it depends who is in net for the Candians as to the prediction of the winner. If Brodeur is in net, I'm banking on the Slovaks, because they have all played him before and are a really strong offensive team. He may have the best stats, and there is no denying that he is a great player, but his stats show that he has played great for a long time. They do not necessarily show that he is the best player for today.

With Luongo in net, I predict Canada will win. I'm pretty sure Babcock will play Luongo, who is in his hometown and the town he plays for and ready to win. So overall predicition: Canada 6, Slovaks 4. (It will be a moderatly high scoring game because of the stacked power forwards, I'm guessing)

There is a third option, put in Marc-Andre Fleury and get a shutout!!!!! Okay that is wishful thinking but I really want to see him get some playtime, he is outstanding in games that really matter.

**The winners of the two games go on to play for Gold/Silver on Sunday at 3:15pm
**The losers will play each other for Bronze on Saturday

What are your predictions?

USA v. The Swiss

2010-02-25T07:42:00.000-08:00

This game was unbeliveably frustrating. After two periods, the game was still tied at NOTHING. Hiller knocked the puck into his own net after a juggling act, but was a tenth of a second too late for it to count for the Americans.

The third period was the most serious hockey, ever. It was just back and forth the entire time and both teams must have been dying of exhaustion. Luckily, the Americans are composed of very young players and their power-kill was ideal.

Both teams kept taking penalty after penalty, but it wasn't until Zach Parise banked one for USA that the scoreboard finally got some love. There were a couple of close calls at both ends and the Americans scored again, though it was ruled no goal because of some interference penalty madness. It was a fair call, but just added to the frustrating fact that Team USA had scored three times but only one has counted.

Also, I think that tripping must not be a penalty in the Olympics because no refs were calling it for either side. It was getting totally out of control and you saw some even more blatant tripping in the Canada v. Russia upset. I call it an upset because thanks to Noborov Russia pretty much had no chance thus making the highly anticipated match pretty boring.

Switzerland didn't give up too quickly. They pulled the goalie with under two minutes left, and the Americans just dominated shooting for the empty net and making it 2-0 with 11 seconds to go. And thus, American moves on playing the winner of Finland v. Czechoslovakia. I'm hoping Finland because the Czechs play dirty and I dont want any players getting injured.

Canada defeats Russia with some embarrassing score that I won't even mention out of courtesy.

The battle for North America is over, the Battle for Middle Earth is about to begin

2010-02-22T07:36:00.000-08:00

I must begin by apologizing for my title, it is essentially Lord of the Rings quote adjusted to fit my purposes here today which is to revel in the excitement that Team USA showed Team Canada who's boss.

The final score was 5-3, including a empty netter from USA. Though this wasn't an elimination round, I am just soaking up the happiness that the less experienced underdogs of the best country in the world defeated the Canadians who pretty much invented hockey.

Ryan Miller is a mad man. He has been playing wonderfully and if he keeps it up, we can could go all the way. (P.S. I learned yesterday that there are 7 Ryans on Team USA, it must be like the most American name ever)

Brodeur is getting a little to egotistical and I really think that it is effecting his goal tending.

But anyways, with this win the USA clinches a by for the first wave of eliminations. Canada will play Germany tommorow, Swiss v. Belarus, Latvia v the Czechs, and Norway v. Slovakia. Russia, Finland, and Sweden also get to sit the day out.

Shootouts Madness, Nothing was safe yesterday in Olmypic Hockey

2010-02-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

WOW. I spent so much of my day yesterday in front of the TV watching hockey. And it wasn't just any hockey, it was some of the most intense and exciting game play I have seen in my short life.

Lets go game by game:

USA v. Norway

I missed the third period of this game, but USA came on strong. They are currently beating Canada in points, and as I've said before I think they can go all the way. The final score was 6-1 with US goals from Ryan Malone, Patrick Kane, Chris Drury, Phil Kessel, and two goals from Brian Raflaski They key to their success thus far, in my opinion, is Ryan Miller.

When playing against Buffalo, I love to watch people score on him. But for the USA he has been a strong line of defense making the saves and holding down the fort. I can't wait to see him on Sunday. I'm worried because Mike Richards (Yuck, I'm sorry to have to mention him), Sidney Crosby, Eric Staal, and others on the Canadian team have ample experience against him. Many of the Norway players didn't have that same experience, and as we saw in Canada v. Switzerland yesterday, that goalie-knowledge can make the difference.

Canada v. Switzerland

Without a doubt, this was the most emotionally intense hockey game that I have ever witnessed. Going into it, I was hoping Switzerland to win mainly because that would put USA at an advantage, and because I'm getting a little sick over the media hype. I was rather torn though, because Sidney Crosby deserves the gold more than anyone.

Canada was in control of the first period, but I'm not quite sure what happened in the second. Switzerland was just totally monopolizing the puck, turning it over, and taking shots on Broduer. (Good for you Switzerland). I read the PG this morning that it was exactly a year ago today that these teams met in Turin, and we know that Switzerland upset Canada there.

It was looking in favor of the Swiss (who curiously enough we not very neutral yesterday) up until the end of the third where it turned into a mad rush by both sides tied at 2 to get the game finished in regular time. Teams only get 2 points for winning in OT or shootout versus the 3 in regular time.

But it went to OT and it went to a shootout, and oh my goodness I could hardly breath. A CNBC announcer said it best, if you are a fan of one of these teams you are hating this and if you are a fan of hockey you could not ask for more, to paraphrase.

The list of shooters went on and on with two insanely strong goalies, Hiller for the Swiss and Broduer for the Canadians. It took four shooters on each side before Sid the Kid got one behind the net to win the game. I'm so excited for him, who also took a stick to the face which drew blood earlier in the game. He truly is a hero, and I'm especially glad that now the US has one point on Canada, and I'm hoping with everything in me that we can beat 'em on Sunday.

Russia v. Slovakia

AHHHHH, side note. VLADMIR AND NATALIA MALKIN are in Vancouver. They showed them during the broadcast, and it was the happiest moment of my day. They have become serious Pittsburgh celebs.

But this matchup was also insanely entertaining with some of the NHL's and the Russian central league's biggest stars. I unfortunatly went to bed before the third period where Slovakia and Zdeno Chara made a serious comeback taking the game into overtime, and then a seven round shootout. SEVEN. The Russians played Ovechkin three times during the shootout and he scored once. Slovakia came out on top, despite having two Hossas on their team.

I don't think we have seen the end or even the highlight of what these two teams can do yet, but I would worry too much about Slovakia, they have to deal with the curse of Marian Hossa.

You can checkout highlight videos here, http://www.nbcolympics.com/video

Go TEAM USA!

Oh, Schedule! Our home and Native times!

2010-02-17T12:50:00.001-08:00

Today (Wednesday)
3:00 pm, Finland v. Belarus MSNBC
7:30 pm, Sweden v Germany CNBC
11:55 pm. Czech Republic v. Slovakia CNBC

Tomorrow (Thursday)
3:00 pm, USA v. Norway USA Network (the home of Psych!)
7:30 pm, Canada v. Switzerland CNBC
11:55 pm, Russia v. Slovakia CNBC

Don't miss any fun!

Penguins bringing home Olympic Win (s)

2010-02-17T12:18:00.000-08:00

Four Penguins played hockey yesterday underneath the judgmental eyes of the international community. And all of them contibuted to wins for their countries. It's just been difficult rooting for individuals playing for countries outside of America. You have to decided, hm..am I a Pens fan at heart or an American?

I've decided to be an American all the way. Brooks Orpik played some strong defense yesterday, Ryan Miller some sweet goal tending, and Ryan Malone (originally from Upper Saint Clair, a suburb of Pittsburgh) scored a goal all contributing to Team USA's 3-1 win over Switzerland. The other two goals were scored by Bobby Ryan and David Backes.

The chances of America taking the gold? It depends who you talk to. Any Canadian or Canada fan will tell you no way, because they are convinced Canada will take the gold on home soil. Any general sports columnist will tell you that they are an underdog and may have a chance. I'm just totally going out on a limb here to tell you that I think they can do it!

It might be a crazy dream when Russia boats an 8-2 over Latvia, Evgeni Malkin with one goal yesterday, Ovechkin with two, Kovalchuk with one, and other awesome players including Paval Datsyuk, Sergei Gonchar, and Sergei Fedorov. And when Canada takes home a 8-0 win over Norway with a list of famous players that would take too long to mention and with Jarome Iginla with a hat trick triple assisted by Sid the Kid. They didn't even play Marc-Andre, their third string goalie, who we love and have seen dominate many games. He is a force to be reckoned with.

But despite all of the pressure and odds, I must admit that this year's USA team has the heart. At least it seems to, I guess we will have to watch and see.

In the mean time, I'm having trouble rooting for Russia, though I want too pretty badly. I always want to see Geno succeed, but its simply painful whenever Ovechkin scores. The Cold War is over, but I'm still not too sure we can trust the political situation of the "Russian Federation."

Do you think it is anti-American to root for Russia because of the country's history?

Pens fall to Caps, Tears fall from Pittsburghers...

2010-02-08T07:45:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a weekend in the Burgh. The fourth biggest snowstorm in record history, many people still without power, schools and businesses closed, and the Penguins just barely lose to their arch-rivals the Caps.

After playing the previous day in Montreal, Canada, the Penguins flew to Newark, NJ because of the snow and took a bus from Newark to D.C. They arrived in the middle of the night only to sleep for a few hours and take on the Ovechkins at the Verizon Center.

Now, in all honesty I trust them to be adult athletes and not let the fatigue get to them, and I'm not going to make excuses but by the overtime period these guys must have been exhausted.

Not to mention--- when you push someone's hand up, their stick is going to go up as a reaction. Brooks Orpik was pushed into a high sticking call. The Caps are outstanding actors and I was at the Verizon center a few weeks ago and noticed that there is a theater across the street that has Shakespearean plays, you know that must be where they get it!

But back to the actual game, lack of sleep gave J Staal and Sid some extra edge. And After Sid scored two in the first period making the game 2-0, I was totally looking for the Hat Trick and the win.

I didn't think that the Caps would be the team getting those two things I wanted for Pittsburgh.

I have to say, watching Alex Ovechkin score the Hat trick was the icing on the top of a classy weekend. My parent's house still doesn't have power and as I was home with them for the weekend we went out to a restaurant to watch the game... and Ovi scores a hat trick.. LOL Sorry guys I'm not meaning to complain but I kept on waiting for Sid or Staal to bank a rivaling Hat Trick but nothing went through.

The game was called pretty fairly in the beginning, It was more than I anticipated from the refs to give Mike Knuble a minor, major, and a misconduct. I mean it was totally the fair call, but usually they can get away with anything.

They did for most of the third period. But that brings Washington to their 14th consecutive win. Why are they so good? Well, they are impeccably strong offensively and for some reason can get away with any kind of violence-- At least Ovechkin can do whatever he wants and rarely get called on it. Much like lots of other people living in Washington, just playing...well a little.

At any rate, 14 wins is really impressive but it guarantees very little for the playoffs season. Having a great regular season can secure you an awesome spot in the playoffs and home ice advantage, but teams come in expecting a hard game. We all know that Pittsburgh can take Washington down when they need to:

EXHIBIT A, photo from www.offwingphoto.com

So no worries, Washington is pretty far in the lead, but the Olympic break will tire many of their stars.

Pens have three games left before said break, and I'm hoping after the break to see a much stronger ready to go team:

WEDNESDAY vs NY Islanders, 7:30 pm
FRIDAY vs NY Rangers, 7:30 pm (EXCITEEDDDDDD)
SUNDAY vs Nashiville Predators 1:00 pm (Happy Vday!)

Sidney's Second Period Hat Trick!

2010-02-01T20:47:00.000-08:00

Pens took on the Sabres and pulled off a 5-4 win, thanks to three goals from Sid the Kid in the second period.

I was lucky enough to be there for one of the coolest games so far this season, here is a handful of pictures from a very successful night, helping to raise those home game statistics:

Next game isn't until Saturday, then one more short week matching up against the Islanders, Devils, and Predators.That brings us to the OLYMPIC BREAK!

Geno scores a Hat trick, Pens top Islanders

2010-01-20T12:00:00.000-08:00

The Islanders are pretty much on fire this season, lets not try to deny it. Maybe it is because of Tavares and the hype he's caused, or maybe they are just sick of loosing?

At any rate, the match-up last night held nothing back. I had prior engagements that kept me from watching it on TV, but i had the privilege of listening to Mike Lange, so it's okay.

Pittsburgh pulled out the win 6-4, thankful to have Brent Johnson back in the net. They established a three-nothing lead, before the Islander's Andy Sutton (and oh you will hear about him later) made it 3-1. The Islanders go on to score three unanswered goals making it 4-4, and frustrating Pittsburgh fans into thinking were back in a loosing streak.

But Geno Geno, the heroic one exhibiting those heroic goals was not going to accept defeat. I'll bet Vladamir and Natalia are so proud back in Russia. I hope they got to watch his goals at least on you-tube!

Malkin got the win and the hat trick, the fifth of his career.Not only did he break his personal losing streak, they were all POWER PLAY GOALS. I know, right?

There was, however, teeny incident I didn't mention yet. And I live to get angry about this sort of stuff:

Pascal got pretty much killed. It was a dirty hit, but I've seen worse. You can also see that he is genuinely concerned.

"Just playing my usual game, tying to play hard, finish checks. I feel awful. I've played with Pascal. I've known him a long time. I obviously never intended for that happen,"said Sutton as quoted in the Post Gazette Empty-Netters blog, read the whole story here.

I just hope Pascal is back to play for Thursday. Gonchar and Talbot are on day-to-day, and I haven't heard about Fleury.

But Thursday is an epic battle against the most evil minions on this earth. Uh, I mean the Washington Capitols. It is going to be quite a time, the first that we have played them all season. It all starts at 7:30.

Oh, Those Russians!

2010-01-17T11:49:00.000-08:00

With Fleury's finger broken, and Johnson out with some undisclosed injury, Pittsburgh was pretty hard up for goalies. Finding themselves not only outside of Pittsburgh, but out of the country before a fifth and final west coast road trip.

Pittsburgh signed Russian, Alexander Pechursk, age 19, who does not speak a word of English and has never played in an NHL game,for just one game. I'm sure he never thought he would actually get a chance to play.But after John Curry totally embarassed himself, the Penguins found themselves down 5-1, in the second period.

Enter the baby Russian, and he played amazing! I was proud to have him and had it been up to me, he would have been coming back to Pittsburgh to hang in Wilkes-Barre.

He played about 36 minutes and only let it one goal from the Vancouver Canuck's dangerous offensive force that was currently holding all of the momentum.

I highly admire him and am able to accept our 6-2 loss, because we played our third & fourth string goalies. Also because one of those two Pittsburgh goals belonged to Evgeni Malkin who is hopefully on his way to breaking that no-scoring streak!

Pens split the road trip 3-2, Not perfect, but on their way back to the top.

What is the world coming to?

2010-01-13T08:55:00.000-08:00

Last night, The NY Islanders beat Detroit 6-o, with OSGOOD in goal for the first three goals.

The Philadelphia Flyers are 8-1-1 in their past ten games.

The Penguins are 3-7-0. THREE- SEVEN- AND ZERO.

Though holding onto second in the Atlantic division, they are are currently eight points behind the New Jersey Devils, and ten points behind the San Hose Sharks.

This loosing slump, and inability to score on the power play is dropping the Pittsburgh Penguins off of the radar. Come on, Pens, we are counting on you!

The game tonight is against Calgary Flames at 9:30 pm. Hopefully Brooks Orpik will be well enough to play, and the Olympic distractions, and mental blocks against the power play will release and those Penguins we know and love will emerge and claim back that Stanley Cup Champions title...

5 game losing streak finally broken!

2010-01-05T19:41:00.000-08:00

Conditions were right tonight at the Igloo for 2 goals and an assist courtesy of Jordan Staal, as well as goals from Kris Letang, Ruslan Fedotenko, and Luca Caputi. There was some great goal tending provided by Brent Johnson, and overall that Penguins team we all know and love seemed to emerge from a slump.

The Penguins took on the Atlanta Thrashers, who are currently experiencing a 9-game losing streak. Letang began the scoring in the second period after a scoreless first period. The goal was then answered by the Thrashers, and Pittsburgh kept their game coming for a final score of 5-2.

Poor Jordan Staal just can't seem to plug in that hat trick. This is the second time in a matter of weeks that he has put up two goals and furiously taken shots looking for that third goal. I know he has it in him, he is a dangerously talented young player who means a great deal to this team. If he keeps it up, the hat tricks will just fall into place.

But tonight was all good news for Forward Luca Caputi, a name you may not recognize. He was called up from the baby pens in Chris Kunitz's absence (He is having surgery on a torn abdomen and will be out for four to six weeks, OUCH!). Caputi, 21 originally of Toronto, Canada, played five games for the Penguins last season scoring one goal and then returned to Wilkes-Barre to finish out the season.

His goal today was thanks to the hard work of Geno Malkin, but without Caputi there at the right time to carry through, that fourth goal may not have found its way to the back of the net.

In other unfortunate news, Ovechkin was named Captain of the Capitols today. (try saying that 5 times fast, Captain of the Capitols....) He is the first European Caps Captain. Curious. But hey did you see that commerical during the Winter Classic at the airport where it looked like Ovechkin was reading?

Here it is:

Wait! Ovechkin can read? Who knew. NO wait! He was just looking at his watch.. Sorry! I got a little ahead of myself there.

I guess I can't be angry with Verizon for putting the two groups of people I hate most in the same commercial (Flyers & Caps) because they do own the Verizon Center in D.C. But still who wants to buy something advertised by both Hartnell and Ovi?

New Years Resoloution: Break Loosing Streak!

2010-01-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years Everyone!
I hope 2010 is a great year for you and for Pittsburgh and for America, and of course for the Pens!!

The past few games haven't quite been up to par, but that was 2009 and this is now. We lost to Toronto last Sunday, but it was a close game. I feel a little bit like a few calls made by the refs changed the outcome of that game. It was exciting nevertheless though when it was tied at 3 with two or so minutes left!

I missed the Buffalo Sabres game on Tuesday because I was in Balimore, MD and who knew how hard it was to find somewhere that has versus or the Center Ice package? But Pens lost 4-3, after giving up a three goal lead to allow four unanswered goals.

And the upsetting rivalry with the Devils continued on Wednesday. Good call by Coach Bylsma to play Brent Johnson instead of MAF. While I believe MAF has the capability to be just as good as Martin Brodeur someday, currently he is intimidated or something because he cannot match him this year.

That game was an upset because we let him shut us out, again, 2-0 this time. And that was the end of 2009. But January, 2010 has so much excitement and greatness, were still on the road to another Stanley Cup.

Here is a video that will cheer you up, and probably make your day: It is of Sid's house and his famous dryer (which is now in the hockey hall of fame). It's also a commercial, but enjoy!

Today is also the Winter Classic, its at 1 pm on NBC. Boston vs. Philly. I'm rooting for Boston, because we know how I feel about Philly.

Have a great day everyone!

Lets Talk Olympics

2009-12-30T20:37:00.000-08:00

Team Canada was Announced Today! The excitement for the Winter games is Brewing as our very own Sid the Kid gets an "A" for Alternate along with Jerome Iginla. (So did Chris Pronger, but because he is currently in Philly, I just say "ew")

Goalies: Martin Brodeur, Roberto Luongo, Marc-Andre Fleury

Defense: Chris Pronger (A), Shea Weber, Brent Seabrook, Scott Niedermayer (C), Dan Boyle, Drew Doughty, Duncan Keith

Forwards: Sydney Crosby (A), Jerome Iginla (A), Jonathan Toews, Rick Nash, Eric Staal, Mike Richards, Brenden Morrow, Dany Heatley, Joe Thornton, Ryan Getzlaf, Patrick Marleau, Corey Perry, Patrice Bergeron

This announcement is kind of like a big deal for Canadians and hockey fans world wide, and obviously everyone has their opinions about who should and/or shouldn't have made it. My one complaint is Jordan Staal. He is a great young player, and no offensive better than his brother Eric. Eric Staal was on fire last year, but has barely been holding his keep on my fantasy hockey team this year.

I'm so excited to see Marc-Andre's name there and I think he may get some real game time also. They usually choose by who is hottest or most successful during the weeks before the break, and right now its anybody's game I think.

USA's roster will be released Jan. 1 after the Winter Classic.

Merry Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T10:49:00.001-08:00

Search Engine Monitoring

Here's wishing you and yours and safe and blessed Christmas and Happy Holidays!

Oh and how amazing was that game against Ottawa on Wednesday?
Hat Trick Evgeni, 2-goal Guerin, and Jordan Staal and Chris Kunitz had two assists!
Marc Andre played like a mad man stopping 41 out of 43 shots for a final score of 8-2 PENS!

It just makes me think about the Olympics because the coach of Team Canada happened to be in the audience to see Geno's Hat Trick. And even though Fleury didn't do too well against Brodeur on Monday (Penguins lost 4-0), I think he proved himself worthy of first backup goalie on Wednesday and throughout the entire Stanley Cup run last year.

Once again, the Penguins show that bulling and violence won't stop them. They keep taking hits and scoring goals!

But have a safe and Happy rest of the holiday season and don't forget to check out the Winter Classic on New Years Day and come back to chat for the whole new year of Penguins Madness. We are currently tied for the most points with NJD in the NHL, Its going to be a great spring. (PLAYOFFS AND STANLEY CUP '10 HERE WE COME!)

Shootout Shuts up Sabres

2009-12-20T11:48:00.000-08:00

Here's a quick recap:

Chris Kunitz tied the game at one with a few seconds to go in the first period. And the score stayed tied at one-- for a long time. In fact no more goals were scored in regulation or overtime.

ENTER SHOOTOUT!

The Buffalo Sabres are on fire this year, especially compared to last year. Much of this is thanks to their goalie Ryan Miller, who didn't play last night due to injury. Their backup goalie was part of the key to the Penguin's success.

Kris Letang, the shootout mad man, was the only one to score during the shootout securing Pittsburgh's win 2-1. Sidney Crosby was 5 out of 5 in shootouts before yesterday's game, and I think that with review his shot last night may have been a goal too. It got stuck in Lalime's pads and his whole self went past the goal line? But it was okay, because we didn't need that shot to win the game.

It was pretty exciting though, and I look forward to playing the Buffalo Sabres again in January.

Next Game Monday vs. NJD!

Pens Vs, Flyers round two!

2009-12-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

So I guess the referees and the general population missed the fact that Ruslan Fedotenko took an elbow to the face and that Alex Gogo's face was shoved into the ice twice. Oh and that Carcillo gets away with anything he wants...

But that's okay, because when it came to the true match of talent where violence and unfair interference couldn't occur, it was obvious who's boss.

Yes, the game ended in shootout after remaining 2-2 (with the help of some very Philli-friendly refs) and passing through the overtime with no score. The shootout was so fun because The flower made shutting the Flyers look too easy. Kris Letang (who retained his body parts this time around and didn't recieve anymore Hartnell rabies) and Sid Crosby scored in succession in order to land the Pittsburgh win at Wachovia Center.

The Flyers are still such a big rivalry for the Penguins and playing them two games in a row was intense. Yet Philadelphia didn't reach their normal status of viciousness until the second and third periods of their home game.

The funniest part of the game is after Crosby scored the crowd started chanting "Crosby Sucks." Okay, I understand that as a Flyers fan you probably dislike Sid the Kid. We certainly dislike ALL of the Flyers. But really? He scored! He is arguably the best NHL player of this decade! Hm... there is something very wrong with that city=)

Like I heard someone saying yesterday-- At the Wachovia Center, It doesn't matter who wins as long as there is violence and/or blood.

But here's some pictures I took at Tuesday's game!:

Fly Home Flyers!!!!!

2009-12-15T19:50:00.000-08:00

I chose the perfect game to get tickets to!
I was there tonight to see the premiere of the new power play, which resulted in the first goal of the game. I also got to see the three fights in the first period within 16 seconds of game play, AND two shorthanded goals.

But I have to admit, as bad as it is, I was disappointed that the Flyers didn't try anything crazy. Their new coach has cleaned them up a bit, but I'm thinking they played a little too clean. The Penguins won 6-1, pretty much making it look effortless.

Before, the Flyers were too preoccupied with cage fighting to score. But now they are too concerned with holding the violence back to make any offensive moves. Truth is-- they are just goons=)

Being inside the Mellon Arena for the first time since winning the Stanley Cup was an outstanding feeling though! I got to see the banner hanging from the ceiling and be part of the the 135 sell out in a row! Oh! And partake in some of the most amazing chants known to mankind including, "HARTNELL SUCKS" and "FLY HOME FLYERS." Plus there was a pretty great sign that said "Hartnell thinks Letang is finger-licking good". Ha, remember that?

I also secretly had my hopes on golden-child Jordan Staal to get that shorthanded hat trick. He took a puck to I think his stomach late in the third though, and that hurt his chances. Plus Philadelphia never pulled Boucher. You'd think a team down 6-1 would pull the goalie just to eliminate their embarrassment a little bit.

At any rate, it was a great game to be at and a great night for the Penguins. Heres the fun part-- WE PLAY THE FLYERS AGAIN ON THURSDAY at 7:30! I wonder how that is going to go. I have no doubts that we will win again, I'm only curious as to who Hartnell will try to eat?

Bring on the Panthers!

2009-12-12T08:14:00.000-08:00

Thursday night's game in Montreal went pretty great, making the Penguins one Pittsburgh team to actually notch a win that evening. (Steelers, why bother anymore?)

The Canadians played a pretty dirty game in the next two periods. I was surprised that no one got into a fight! Viciousness from both sides created an interesting game, and it is always lovely when Hal Gill appears even though he is our enemy now sadly.

The first goal of the night was a perfectly placed snipe from Sergei Gonchar and later a redirect from Matt Cooke in the second. Montreal scored twice in the second, but Pascal Dupuis shut 'em up and scored the game winning goal in the third, making the final score 3-2.

Tonight is a new match against the Panthers and our rival (which I decided because he always plays mean and seems to be a threat, don't judge), David Booth. Also Steve Weiss and Horton have been offensive machines lately and will be up against Pittsburgh's young guns-- Sid & Geno.

The game is on home ice at 7:30 pm! Let's go Pens!

In other news:
- I read that Kunitz is getting ready to return to the ice for Practice!
- Here's a really funny story about Geno's lack of points in the past five games.

Monday, a new week, a new match against the Hurricanes

2009-12-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

After a rough game against the Hawks on Saturday, some Penguins are coming back to the ice and getting ready to take on the Canes at home.

The Blackhawks game certainly was rough in numerous aspects including Marian Hossa scoring a goal at the Mellon arena, serious hits from both sides, and an OT loss. The game stayed at 1-0 Hawks for almost the entire game after Hossa's goal in the first, until Jordan Staal with the help of Malkin and Gonchar sent the game to overtime with about two minutes left.

This was one of those games that the score should have been like 8-7 expect that both goalies were FANTASTIC and totally on their game. This is a match up that the Penguins won't soon forget.

Sid is playing tonight! And I also read that Chris Kunitz and Alex Goligoski returned to practice and are getting closer to game-ready health, there are pictures here!

The Hurricanes are one of my favorite teams to play, and I'm curious to see how it is going to turn out because Cam Ward is still injured since his leg laceration on Nov. 7 against Columbus.

Anyways, the game is 7:30 PM on FSN.

LET'S GO PENS!!

Big game tonight against the Hawks!

2009-12-05T09:50:00.000-08:00

Pittsburgh takes on the Chicago Blackhawks tonight at Mellon Arena. And I just heard that Sid the Kid was sidelined with a groin injury and will not be playing!

There is much to be said about this team which had an eight game winning streak that ended yesterday against Nashville in a 4-1 struggle.

Now the key to this game will be containing Marian Hossa. I may be a little overconfident but I can't stop myself from asking, WHAT TEAM WILL YOU PLAY FOR NEXT,HOSSA, AFTER THE PENGUINS BEAT CHICAGO!?

Third period key to win against Avalanche yesterday

2009-12-04T13:30:00.001-08:00

Penguins are shaping up to be the third period heroes they once were, with goals and intensity heightening under the pressure of the last twenty minutes of play.

That is what we saw last night against the Colorado Avalanche. The first two periods were kind of a struggle. Colorado scored in the first and Sidney (with the help of Rupp) tied it up just seconds before the end of the period.

Deadlock continued until Billy Guerin checked in with a power-play goal which was followed by not one but TWO empty-netters. And you all know how I feel about empty net goals. (Best thing ever!).

With a final score of 4-1, and a successful Toys for Tots drive at the game, The Penguins may have started an unstoppable Avalanche of wins =)

They Finally Listened! Ovechkin suspended!

2009-12-01T18:11:00.000-08:00

Look's like the NHL has been reading my blog, just kidding. But they did suspend Ovechkin for two games after a knee on knee hit, very similar to the one he served to Sergei Gonchar during the playoffs last year. But this time it backfired and he ended up causing himself physical pain and the NHL finally did the right thing and inserted some justice. Hey Thanks!

Here's the hit:

Rangers coRUPPted, Mike Rupp Scores First Career Hat Trick

2009-11-30T18:31:00.000-08:00

Mike Rupp! What an unsuspected hat trick scorer, but I'm so excited! It was a night of firsts:

* Coach Bylsma's first time coaching in Madison Square Garden
* Mike Rupp's first career hat trick
* Pittsburgh's first win in New York in a long time
* Plus, Bylsma unveiling the Stanley Cup Plaque in NHL's New York offices

The game was intense the whole way-- it was almost looking like playoff hockey. And previously, I had thought that the Rangers vs. Penguins rivalry was a thing of the past, kinda fizzled out. This is not true! It is still going strong.

Sidney also scored two goals tonight-- the final game score 5-2. The Rangers played rough, though. Avery came strong making sure to attack brutally everyone in his path most especially Marc-Andre Fleury. (Of course no suspension or penalties to him, he is a repeat offender and everyone is used to it) I can't remember if it was Staggy or not, but one of the announcer said something to the extent of, "Marc-Andre is going to be thinking Avery is sleeping beside him tonight," because he wouldn't leave him alone. I enjoyed this comment because it was pretty accurate!

PENALTIES: a note to the NHL and its referees.

Players should only be penalized when they actually commit a penalty. Penalizing a member of the opposite team in order to "even up" the power plays is not cool. Tonight the Rangers made the choice to play dirty and of course only some of their cheap shots were called. The Penguins had a few dirty hits, but were not called for any of them. They were called on random things that didn't really happen. This appeared to be done to "even up" power play time. Note the number of unnecessary 4 on 4s. I understand the need to make a game fair, but if one team doesn't deserve it-- don't give it. Please watch any Flyers game if you need further proof.

How do you guys feel about this?

P.S. Stinks to be the Rangers right now, not only did they loose twice, they lost to two Hat Tricks! Can't wait for the next match: Monday, January 25th against the Rangers and back in Madison Square Garden.

Oh, It's on. Matt Cooke suspended?

2009-11-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

It was announced this morning that Matt Cooke is suspended two games due to his hit on Artem Anisimov during Saturday's Rangers game. The NY players dealt with this in the way that they felt necessary, sending their goons Brashear and Ryan Callahan on Cooke and Fedotenko, ensuing countless penalty minutes and fights and subsequently aiding in the Penguins 8-3 win.

Read the Trib's Article here.

Enough with the double standard, NHL. ENOUGH. Why can Ovechkin (remember the hit on Gonchar during the playoffs), Richards (hit on David Booth), and basically the entire Flyers team do whatever they want?

George Laroque (hit on Kronwall) was recently suspended similarly and I was angry then too. I have a theory that people who enact violent hits daily get away with it because everyone is used to it. Flyers Hockey, more commonly known as Cage fighting, has players who bite, kick, and attack. How often are they suspended?

I'm not angry because of the loss, but the inconsistency. Please let me know where you stand!

I have many comments about this, but am too curious as to how the Penguins will respond to this during their rematch tonight.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARC ANDRE!

2009-11-28T19:07:00.001-08:00

Marc-Andre Fleury got several presents in the form of a 8-3 win against the Rangers! Yes, I said 8-3 it wasn't a mistake!!! It was basically a free-for-all.

SID THE KID notched his fourth career hat trick. Three amazing goals, the last of which during the four minute penalty to Brashear for roughing up Matt Cooke.

Thanks to Sean Avery, the game also ended with a seven minute power play. That's two for instigating and five for fighting. He also cut his nose on the ice pretty badly. He is a jerk, but I can't deny that I enjoy his antics-- he is entertaining.

It would almost be easier to say who didn't score than who scored because it was such a high scoring game! But Pittsburgh saw goals from Evgeni Malkin, Superstar Max Talbot, Marc Eaton, Pascal Dupuis, and Tyler Kennedy.

The momentum in the Mellon Arena must have been fantastic. Kris Letang and Tyler Kennedy came back tonight increasing the energy. Also with that insane win, and lots and lots of fighting, plus a hat trick ON FREE HAT NIGHT, made this night a pretty great night to a Penguin. Marc-Andre couldn't have asked for a better birthday game. And the crowd even started a happy birthday chant.

Love it! Oh and the best part is that The Penguins next game is Monday against the Rangers, on their home turf. A rematch. I'm frightened but giddy with excitement! Let's go Pens!

Yesterday a Taste of Tavares, Today a run in with the Rangers

2009-11-28T07:48:00.000-08:00

Pittsburgh seems to be having a very New York weekend.

With an away game against the Islanders yesterday and a sold out home game against the Rangers today, it's not much of a holiday vacation for the team. A pretty enjoyable game yesterday, but the Islanders won 3-2. It was an afternoon game with both back-up goalies playing.

Right when the puck dropped, so did the gloves of Deryk Engelland and Islander's Tim Jackman. Still not really sure what happened there. Engelland, along with Ben Lovejoy, was reassigned to the Baby Pens today. He played his first NHL game on Nov. 10 and in nine games with Pittsburgh accumulated two assists, and 17 penalty minutes.

Which could sound like alot. But Jordan Staal pretty much did all that just yesterday.

Aw Jordan coming to the aid of linemate Matt Cooke. But he got severely punished for it. I'm not too sure if I would call that instigating. Maybe a little, but it's nothing compared to what some of the goons in the NHL do. I would certainly not call Jordan Staal a goon-- this is his third ever NHL fight. He got five for fighting, two for instigating, and ten for misconduct. Oh, boy that equals 17! (Which actually helps out my fantasy league)

As for the goal scoring, Geno scored to tie the game at one in the first and Matt Cooke scored the only goal of the second making it 2-1. But two goals in the third period from the Islanders, the game winning goal from the much talked about John Tavares (drafted first overall in 2009) led to a Pittsburgh loss.

Thankfully, Brent Johnson gave Fleury time to rest for tonight. He also played pretty amazingly. His one save in the second should make it to saves of the week on nhl.com . He is shaping up to be a pretty awesome back-up goalie.

Lets go Pens! Tonight at 7 pm, Mellon Arena.

Happy Thanksgiving from The Icing on the Skates!

2009-11-26T09:08:00.000-08:00

Hey there! I hope you all have a great day with your families and/or friends! I already am thanks to FSN-- I'm currently watching Game 6 of the Flyers Series from last year. FSN is playing classic games from last year's Stanley Cup run including Game 7 of the Caps series, Game 3 of the Wings series, and of course Game 7, when Pittsburgh became the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions. I hope you have time to check one of these out. They bring back such found memories for us all...

But last night was a great game too! Defeating the Canadians 3-1, with goals from Guerin, Crosby, and Gonchar, Pittsburgh claimed quite a win on home ice. And I regret saying anything bad about Fleury because he played like a maniac!

Its a great day to be a Penguins fan=) Happy Thanksgiving!

Do the Penguins ever loose in Overtime Hockey?

2009-11-24T06:46:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, it was starting to look bad. With only a couple of minutes left in the third i though maybe the Panthers could wrap it up and take the win. But, of course, Mike Rupp thought otherwise.

This defensemen, aquired from the Blues at the beginning of this season, has scored his fifth goal this season. Last season with the Blues (and I know i've said this before) he only scored three all season. And it's only November!

So Rupp kicks it into Overtime. I would like to take this time to send a special thanks to Nathan Horton for high-sticking Brooks Orpik (he probably had a little too much free candy and was giddy with a sugar high).

Penguins recieve a four minute power play for the remaining four minutes of overtime. It was a gift! And after dominating both the third period and the overtime with shots on goal, and scoring chances, Pittsburgh gets the puck in the net to win another away game--yay!

It was Sidney Crosby sliding it past Geno Geno and into the net. That's what I like to see on a Monday.

As for the Jersesys? My rumor wasn't incorrect. I rather enjoyed the Panther's third jersey. I kind of want to own one because they are cute, but I'm not at all a Panther's fan. I am wondering though why so many teams have chosen a similar shade of blue for their extra jersey: Montreal, Panthers, Us...

But here are the video highlights from nhl.com, Be sure to compare the jerseys in your mind:

Game Tonight versus Florida

2009-11-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

The Panthers have been hot, hot, hot, recently, no pun intended since they are in Florida and it is hot there! I do secretly wonder sometimes how Florida maintains a hockey team. Most players must not be originally from there. Because If i grew up in Florida, I would be like a surfer or baseball player. I would not be rushing off to the ice.

But anyways, they have been maintaining a pretty serious winning streak recently (eight wins in 11 games) and I'm curious how they will do tonight against Pittsburgh. Here is a nice head to head preview on the Panther's website!

I also heard a rumor that they were releasing a new jersey today? Hmm... guess we will find out.

let's go pens<3

Penguins thrash to hold onto their lead and win 3-2 against Atlanta

2009-11-21T18:55:00.000-08:00

The Penguins finally pulled out a win in an away game! Welcome back Brooks Orpik-- You have been missed. The first two periods were golden with a goal from Geno Malkin and two goals from Martin Skoula. Pittsburgh entered the third period with a three nothing lead, but really struggled to hold onto it.

About ten minutes into the third, the Thrashers scored and things started to get ugly. Both teams escalated their game and kinda played dirty for a while. But at 19:42 Atlanta had pulled their goalie and used that extra attacker to score. It was pretty sloppy on The Flower's part though.

Pittsburgh pulled off the win. And it looked like Marc-Andre Fleury was finally back on his game. For a little while, I was starting to wonder if he was loosing his edge? Don't get me wrong I think that he is one of the most talented young goal tenders of our time. I was just really surprised to see those away losses and him letting in so many goals on Thursday against Ottawa.

Tonight he got the number one star and let in zero goals in the first two periods. The first time I was at the Mellon arena to watch the Pens play when Fleury was goalie, they played Atlanta. Marc Andre got the shutout win with a final score of 4-nothing and I was simply enchanted with his goalkeeping. Tonight wasn't quite that awesome, but I was glad to see him back on his game.

Good game Pens, keep up the good work! (And my Fantasy Hockey team is finally winning this week thanks to my Penguins players!)

Pens lose to Sens 6-2

2009-11-20T10:24:00.000-08:00

Both Sergei Gonchar and Max Talbot returned last night, but the only part of the game worth watching was Eric Godard fighting Chris Neil. That guy knows how to fight, and he helped the Penguins to lose their fourth straight away game with a little dignity:

Crosby carries the torch and the injuries continue

2009-11-18T11:34:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the night! Sidney Crosby will carry the Olympic torch through his home town of Halifax, Nova Scotia. The group of 12,000 will help the torch on it's way to Vancouver. Here is a great article, and information about the televised updates!

Meanwhile, Jay Mckee will be out two to four weeks with an infected finger. An infected finger? What other injuries and/ or oddities will rip apart the team next?

But wait! There is also some great news-- we may all be recieving Superstar treatment again tomorrow night! Yes folks, there is a good chance that Max Talbot may be returning to the ice tomorrow night against the Ottawa Senators! After missing 21 games already this season, that handsome energetic hockey superstar may be bringing the joy back into all of our lives! (Sorry I'm being a little bit corny, but you know that you are super excited too)

Let's go Pens!

Sweet Sweet Revenge against the Empty Netter!

2009-11-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

Penguins took on the Anaheim Ducks today on home ice-- continuing to relive their West Coast trip at home and this time faring much better.
This game could not have been more satisfying to previously disappointed Penguins fans.
Billy "Grandpa" Guerin broke that terrible Power Play losing streak previously 0-29, and also had an outstanding fight--taking down some mother-ducker that was 20 years younger than him!

My hero of the evening was Jordan Staal who executed his 9th career shorthanded goal. I'm telling you that is this kid's claim to fame. A shorthanded goal to me is such a fascinating feat, and he always manages to pull it out when we need it-- like in the Stanley Cup Finals against Detroit, or when we need it emotionally-- like to tonight to boost the morale of the entire city of Pittsburgh.

Matt Cooke is also my hero today. MY GOODNESS, that line is on fire! He scored the first goal of the game and the priceless EMPTY-NETTER at the end. After losing so many disappointing games on that West Coast road trip, many of which being the victim of an empty-netter, revenge is sweet. It didn't really matter who the adversary is. (Unless of course it is the Caps, In that case there is nothing better).

A DEFINITION: Empty-Netter: (N) EM-TEE NET TERR Usually the last goal of a game, when a team pulls their goalie in order to squeeze out the remaining points and send the game into overtime. It is the most emotionally draining thing ever for a fan to watch happen to their team. Yet, the most exciting sign of victory for a winning team.

Also, please excuse my annoying Pittsburgh Fan/Hockey Fan habit of over superstition, I have a new lucky item! Over the weekend I purchased Penguins earrings at a craft fair, and wore them for the first time today. They helped bring Pittsburgh that 5-2 win!

Goligoski might be out 2 or 3 weeks due to an injury.

2009-11-16T11:33:00.000-08:00

Really?

Here's the post gazette story.

It is becoming funny that every player is INJURED. I am curious if it will stop ever? Lol.

But, Tonight the Penguins take on the Ducks on home ice. That means they will be taking on former Penguin Ryan Malone, who is still good friends with many of the current Pittsburgh team members.

The game starts at 7pm, tune in and let's see if even though we are building up such an extreme list of injured players, we can still pull out a couple of wins!

Lets go Pens!

FOUR TENTHS OF A SECOND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-14T19:17:00.000-08:00

Oh my goodness.
I haven't stopped screaming yet! That was the most exciting hockey game in the past few months at least.

It started similar to how it ended=) So nicely framed!
Jay Mckee shot in a goal within the first two minutes and the head to head match began. Boston tied it at one. Dupuis scores, Boston ties it at two. Sidney scores and Boston ties it at three. Marc Eaton scores nine minutes into the third and it started to look like the game was wrapped up-- but it was FAR from over.

Matt Cooke accidentally sticked a guy in the face and drew blood. I mean yeah he did and it is a fair penalty, but it wasn't malicious and "Flyers" style. Ironic though, that during the Flyers series last year Matt Cooke took a stick to the face and nothing was called. I bet that's what he thought about in the box.

But then the fun came. Sidney got called for Tripping, which by the way was bogus because a Penguin was tripped to the floor on the ice at the same time. When the wistle blew, I was expecting a 4 on 4, not a 5 on 3.

So of course, It was unavoidable that they score and they did, tying the game at four. Marc Strum got it in again giving the Bruins the lead.

Then there was a mishap where we may have scored, but it wasn't clear.

But then with FOUR TENTHS OF A SECOND TO GO, everyone on their feet, they think its over, disappointment, the headlines are already being written "Penguins continue their loosing streak", when BILLY GUERIN gets the puck in the net sending the game into overtime in the snazziest most exciting way ever!

Then in overtime, Tim Thomas got repaid for his smugness after shutting us out the other day. He went behind the net to get the puck and then sloppily couldn't make it back-- but Dupuis, number one star, could! He shot into an open net and won the game! NO ONE saw that coming! And I love it!

BACK ON TOP, BABY!

Geno Returns! Is it enough to break the loosing streak?

2009-11-14T14:43:00.000-08:00

After loosing 4-1 to New Jersey on Thursday and continuing this long streak of extremely disappointing upsets, finally hope is on the way!

An empty netter goal against Pittsburgh sealed the deal for New Jersey at the Mellon Arena on Thursday, breaking the hearts of Penguins fans everywhere. Sidney Crosby is of course experiencing the worst statistics of his career and the Stanley Cup joy is slowly fading away.

But Good news has arrived: EVGENI MALKIN IS PLAYING TONIGHT! Though coupled with bad news- Chris Kunitz is out two weeks with a lower body injury. It just keeps coming. You know, they say bad things come in threes. But that's not the case here, It's more like nines.

Penguins take on the Boston Bruins for the second time tonight, but this time it is on home ice. And both heads of the two-headed monster (Sid and Geno) are thirsty for a goal and starving for a win.

Let's see how it all turns out!

Something Nice to Know...

2009-11-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this video on the NHL.com website and loved it! I think it answers some questions that many Penguins fans have in a heartwarming way.

Hope you enjoy it, and Happy Veterans DAY!

Second straight shut out loss in Boston :-(

2009-11-10T18:28:00.000-08:00

The Penguins finished off their road trip tonight in Boston against the Bruins. Goaltender Tim Thomas played very well and managed to shut out the Penguins completely for, I think, what was his 14th career shut out. There was even that sting of the an empty net goal with 20 seconds left on the clock.

Whats going on with these Penguins? That is not exactly how anyone anticipated their road trip to go. Brooks Orpik was injured during the first period, though. So they are missing like half of the regular team!

It is a terribly week to have several Penguins on my fantasy hockey team since NO Pittsburgh player scored at ALL in the last two games.

I'm not overly concerned though. Pittsburgh is always known for coming back from such deficits.

The next game is Thursday against the New Jersey Devils. Hopefully Sid and the Kids can come back strong and take down the devils on home ice.

How much do you know about Sid and Geno?

2009-11-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

Here's a quiz, since I've been in the mood for them lately, that I created to test some general knowledge... enjoy!

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

Shark Attack and new Max Talbot Commercial!

2009-11-08T13:00:00.000-08:00

Last night the Penguins lost bitterly to the San Jose Sharks, 5-0. Fleury was pulled in the middle of the second period, but nothing seemed to help. Mike Rupp even got into a fight, but it didn't change the momentum.

Maybe something was just off that night in San Jose. Sid the kid has gone four games without any points for the FIRST time in his career. That also makes two west coast losses in a row.

All of this frustration continued. Maybe it was just because too many key players are still missing: Geno Malkin, Sergei Gonchar, Max Talbot, Tyler Kennedy, and now Kris Letang who left the game during the first period with an undisclosed injury. Hopefully the return of one or several of these crucial skaters will occur soon and shift Pittsburgh back to where we were at the very beginning of the season.

But in other news: IT'S FINALLY HERE! The newest A & L Motors commercial featuring Max Talbot. It is the third of it's kind and rather enjoyable.

Here's the You Tube of it:

Pens lose to Kings 5-2.

2009-11-06T12:31:00.000-08:00

Not the best game so far this season. Here's some highlights from nhl.com:

Talbot kisses Geno! (Nothing funny, he is just excited because he got the medical clearance to return to the ice)

2009-11-05T07:50:00.000-08:00

I read this article today at the post-gazette and it is outstanding. Why is Max Talbot so cute?
He still has some time before he can play in a game, but being back on the ice is outstanding progress for a man who has missed a few months due to a shoulder surgery.

You can only imagine his excitement, he does this for a living and was forced to sit on the sidelines for too long!

Get well soon Max, Geno, and Gonchar! Pittsburgh misses you!

Which Penguin's defenseman are you most like?

2009-11-04T09:13:00.001-08:00

FIND OUT=)

Quizzes by Quibblo.com

Pens win 4-3, Prove they are not Ugly Ducklings

2009-11-03T21:12:00.000-08:00

West Coast game tonight versus the Ducks! Anaheim is, of course, the old home of coach Dan Bylsm a. And Tyler Kennedy is back after missing three games. Thus, I am staying awake too late to watch hockey =)

But this game was so worth it.
It was a goal and answer kind of situation. The Duck's Perry scored in the first. The Penguin's Rupp answered in the second. Ducks answered in the second.

Mike Rupp by the way has already outscored himself from last year. Last season he had only 3 goals all year. So far this year (and it's only early November), he has 4 goals! If that doesn't prove how well he fits in with Pittsburgh, I'm not sure what does?

The beginning of the third period- around midnight- I wanted to sleep but couldn't! How awesome to enter the third tied at three? It was a violent game with some cheap shots, sticks to the face, and goalie interference.

The third period just exploded. We saw goals from Alex Goligoski and Pascal Dupuis, and Duck's goal in between those. A one goal lead was not safe for even a few seconds in this game. Both teams were constantly under enhanced pressure.

The last two minutes were pushing playoff desperation and intensity! I'm sure more than half of Pittsburgh will be dragging tomorrow morning-- you just couldn't take your eyes off of this game.

Pens get the job done! They are now 7-0 on the road.

Just a Question...

2009-11-02T09:34:00.001-08:00

West Coast Trip This Week!

2009-11-01T18:32:00.000-08:00

The Penguins go on a little um... vacation to the west coast this week. The games are on later at night, but still very much worth watching. Also, FSN has promised to "make it worth your while" by having contests to win tickets to home games.

- Tuesday versus the Anaheim Ducks, 10:00 PM
- Thursday versus the LA Kings, 10:30 PM
- Saturday versus the San Hose Sharks, 10:30 PM

By the way, here is Guest star Chester (shown with owner Shannon) who is very excited about the West Coast games. He's sporting his old-school jersey.

"I'm jealous of the Pens because they get to enjoy the warm weather of the West Coast and see my favorite d-man, Ryan Whitney,"
said Shannon and Chester!

Mellon Arena: where the Wild things were.

2009-10-31T18:57:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the pens played the Blue Jackets and pulled out a shootout win after loosing for almost two and a half periods.

In the last three minutes, Pittsburgh scored the two needed goals and sent the game into overtime. Brent Johnson played a great game and defended the net long enough for the game to go into a shootout.

Sidney scored the only shootout goal and the penguins showed their worth right until the end.

Tonight, however, those last minutes were just as crucial but the Minnesota Wild and Backstrom's goal tending wouldn't allow a win.

It was an action packed Halloween weekend for the Penguins with one win and one loss. Perhaps the loss can be attributed to numerous missing players and subsequent line changes. But I'm not so sure because the shots were still way above 30.

The highlights, of course, included a fight from Sid the Kid and all the trick or treat candy the Wild could handle. Brooks Orpik was passing out the hits or "candy" all over.

Here, watch that Sid the Kid fight:

Happy Halloween everyone!

I guess hockey players aren't invincible, contrary to popular belief.

2009-10-29T10:43:00.001-07:00

I just heard that Geno Geno Malkin will be out for 2-3 weeks with a shoulder strain...

Here is the latest from Coach Bylsma,

Also Tyler Kennedy didn't play last night due to an undisclosed injury.
And Pascal Dupuis was sick, but played anyways.
Sergei is still out with a broken wrist (but is still practicing)
Superstar Max Talbot is still out recovering from his shoulder surgury.

This is getting insane people! Soon we are going to be missing half of our team! But I suppose that it is the nature of the game.

On the bright side, Pittsburgh is still winning games and leading the league even with so many injurys. So just wait and see what they can do when everyone is healthy and back.

GET WELL SOON PENS!

Hats off to the Captain!

2009-10-28T19:08:00.001-07:00

Three years ago to the day, Sid recorded his first career hat trick against the Flyers. Tonight he made the feat look effortless, and that boy never ceases to amaze.

It was free-for-all on the ice tonight with a final score off 6-1, and assists and goals all over the place. When you get to watch a night like this, especially against the Montreal where hockey is life, you realize why Pittsburgh is the home of champions and the home of the quickest growing hockey franchise.

Chris Kunitz is back in the game with three assists and a goal tonight. Goligoski scores again. Billy Guerin picked up a couple assists. Marc Andre only let in one goal. The Penguins have a record of 10-2, and are already leading the NHL in points. With all of this, the hockey world's head must be buzzing because what could put a stop to penguins momentum?

If you watched the game on FSN tonight, you would have noticed that the announcers were slap happy with silly comments. They had me laughing constantly. Hal Gill was back in da 'burgh and picked up his Stanley Cup Ring. They made countless comments about how tall he is, and about one time when he slept in a bunk bed, which was great because I think you know I love Hal Gill.

They even called Canadian goalie Carey Price (who tended the third period) Vincent Price because of Halloween.

It was trip. And a trick! Have a look:

Free Candy for everyone this Halloween=)

2009-10-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

The Picture at the left is from one of those chain text messages! It makes me very happy. And yes I believe that the "fairy princess" is a picture of Scott Hartnell. I don't know who made this picture, but I love them!

In case you aren't familiar with the whole Brooks Orpik "free candy" thing; I'll clue you in. One day in Penguins Land... Orpik didn't know that they were taking team photos and he showed up looking all frightening, kind of like the type of guy who would pass out candy to little kids. But in real life Orpik passes out hits.

And thus it became known that his hits on people are free candy. Here is a video from You-tube that helped make the term popular:

This year on Halloween, the Penguins are playing the Minnesota Wild. I'm afraid they may receive more free candy than some trick-or-treaters!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Lack of Suspenions continue....

2009-10-26T08:22:00.000-07:00

Mike Richards hit on Florida's David Booth left Booth unconscious and sent him to the hospital. Now Booth is not my favorite person ever and neither is Mike Richards, but looking at it objectively something needs to prevent hits and injures like this.

Read official article here!

Alex Ovechkin is a known attacker and has often injured players and left them out of commission. (Think Sergei Gonchar in Stanley Cup Finals) His slew-foot on Atlanta's Rich Peverly resulted in only a fine and no suspension. But the same offense led to Anaheim's Evgeni Artyukhin getting a 3-game suspension.

Read official article here!

I think that these injuries and borderline criminal offenses are often exhibited by both Ovechkin and the Flyers team as a whole. Maybe its the girl in me, but this kind of unnecessary brutality that sends players unconscious and to the hospital is not hockey.

Players who commit such offensives need to know that they aren't correct and won't be tolerated. And even more importantly, certain people cannot be exempt from punishment (I.E. OVECHKIN!!!!)

What do you guys think about this? Do you think players should be punished if intentional harm is done to another player? Do you think it is okay that some "star" players can get away with anything?

Here is an example of fighting and violence that is accepted and IMPORTANT to the game. This is appropriate:

This is NOT:

It's not quite Halloween, but the Devils were out last night!

2009-10-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

Last night's game against the New Jersey Devils can easily be described with one word: Frustrating.

Marty Brodeur played like the legend he is, letting in only one goal and stopping countless shots that could have easily been goals on any other goaltender. Marc Andre also played well, but letting in those 4 goals lost him his record. He is now 8-1.

The one and only Pittsburgh goal came from Alex Goligoski who after having many shots on goal and devising numerous plays and attempts finally slid one past Brodeur. That goal came in the middle of the third period, giving fans some hope.

But when the Devils answered Goligoski with a fourth goal-- it was all over.

I don't think that this loss will bring down the Penguins too much. They have been playing great this season and have only lost two games. (the other being to the Phoenix Coyotes and similarly frustrating because they were working hard but just kept having failed communications and not clicking).

Captain Crosby and the Penguins still had a successful weekend, back to back games is always hard. They have a nice rest now because the next game isn't until Wednesday against Montreal.

In the meantime, here is nhl.com's Game highlight's video from last night:

Sid's 300th game, 1st shorthanded goal, power play goal, and Shoot out win!

2009-10-23T19:07:00.001-07:00

(photo thanks to Sidneycrosbypictures.com)
After a pretty absent first period, the Pens came back to create an action packed and penalty-filled game.

Florida scored twice in the first, and went the rest of regulation with out putting anything on the board. Both goals by Reinprecht. Although, I think perhaps we have found a new enemy in Panther David Booth, who not only attacked Crosby but also picked up the puck at one point and just threw it down the ice to clear it.

What the heck was he thinking? Really? He is a player I doubt we will forget.

The second period was scoreless but not uneventful. It was littered with penalties and frustration. Whenever Brent Johnson plays, it feels like the team is missing Fleury's presence and couldn't pull it together in the second. The goal deficit and a lack of energy left Pittsburgh down.

Kunitz was in a fight in the second, after being tackled into the crease. It was just heating up--but the refs broke it up too soon for my liking. It didn't seem to have much effect on the momentum of the game.

The third was a whole new hockey game. Leave it to the two-headed monster to bring us back from the two goal deficit just in time to send it into overtime.

Sid Crosby's 300th game was tonight, and also his first ever Shorthanded goal! It was just what we needed.

Though Crosby was taking lots of unnecessary hits and cheap shots all night without penalties being called, he didn't fight back physically. He has too much class for that. Instead he fought back with two goals.

We saw some pretty outstanding goal-tending by Brent Johnson in both the overtime, and the shootout. Yes, folks shootout!

And of course, Pittsburgh pulls out the SHOOTOUT WIN thanks to the one and only goal scored by Sidney Crosby. He scored three goals tonight but did not achieve a hat trick, because the third was during a shootout.

What a game! As has been occurring more recently though, I think Pittsburgh underestimated the opponent and had to struggle in the end for the win. But a win is a win, and the streak continues.

Game Tomorrow against NEW JERSEY DEVILS 7:30 pm!

Bad News Bears!

2009-10-21T09:36:00.000-07:00

I just found out that Sergei will be out for 4-6 weeks with a broken wrist! Remember last night he left the game with an undisclosed injury? =( This poor man always gets injured and hopefully he makes a quicker recovery and returns to the ice because we need him!

Read the official article here!

Fantasizing about Fantasy Hockey

2009-10-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jordan Staal, Chris Kuntiz, Billy Guerin, and Kris Letang all getting assists last night and also Chris Mason's goal tending, My fantasy hockey team is doing pretty well.

This is my first year cautiously entering into the realm of fantasy hockey and I find it totally addicting. Just by sheer luck, I have a lot of Penguins on my fantasy hockey roster-- usually it is composed of players from many teams and usually not one dominating team.

I also have Sean Avery, Eric Staal, Marc Staal (so all 3 Staals), Colby Armstrong, and Chris Mason as mentioned above is my goaltender.

The way it works, well the way I am doing it this year, is that my team is in a league with about 10 of my friends and the computer randomly generates match-ups each week. Points are award for who has more goals, assists, +/-, penalty minutes, game winning goals, save percentages, and GAA. At the end of the week whoever has more points wins. And at the end of the season, your teams go into a unique computer generated playoffs.

I am using yahoo's fantasy hockey and i highly recommend it if you are interested in the future.
ESPN also has a unique fantasy hockey program.

Penguins.nhl.com also features Extra Attacker Fantasy hockey which gets its name from the 6th "extra attacker" and they get double points. This one is fun because you can win real prizes like autographed Sid Crosby Jerseys. It can be played in various types of leagues.

So the moral of my story today is that if you just can't get enough hockey (much like myself), Fantasy Hockey is a ton of fun and a good way to get your NHL fix. It's also much less complicated than Fantasy Football, by the way.

St. Louis must be feeling blue after loosing 5-1!

2009-10-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

WOW! What an outstanding start of the year. Pittsburgh was not looking like this at the beginning of last season. The momentum didn't really pick up until after the loss of Coach Therrien and the acquisition of Chris Kuntiz and Billy Guerin.

But This City of Championship team is showing its worth against them best of 'em!
6 straight wins for The Penguins
Marc-Andre still hasn't lost a game! He has won 8 straight!!

There is just so much excitement, we may be hoisting another Stanley Cup! It is such a rare occurrence in history, as I'm sure you know, for a team to win it all two years in a row. But Pittsburgh has done it before and Edmonton has done it before in '83/'84 and '84/'85. They were in a similar situation to what we have right now-- an all star team and the arguably some of the best players in the world.

As for the game tonight, we saw goals from T. Kennedy, Geno Malkin, R. Fedotenko, M. Cooke, and A. Goligosko. With such contributions from all these players and some outstanding goal tending by the Flower, it was an exciting game but a pretty easy win.

The match up was intense and STL certainly put up a good fight, but it wasn't enough.
We played against former Pens back-up goalie Ty Conklin, and Jay Mckee played against his former team!

Also, something really awesome happened to the Student Rushers-- Legend Mike Lange stopped by for a visit, read about it here!

Penguins throwback to a Win

2009-10-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Pittsburgh took on Tampa Bay at home today wearing the blue throwback jerseys.

(Photo thanks to throwbackguy.com)

Sergei Gonchar surfaced as the night's number one star with a goal in the first and an assist in the second. Where would we be without his sharp shooter sniper shot?

The first goal of the evening was a seemingly effortless one from Billy Guerin and the fourth was from a motivated Mike Rupp.

One easy place to attribute the Penguins success to would be the many many power play and 5 on 3 chances that they acquired. At one point in the second, three Lightning players were in the penalty box. But it doesn't go to 5-2, so they had a 5-3 and then a power play!

Pittsburgh didn't score in that particular chance, but it was times like those that made the night such a success. Here is Nhl.com's penalty summary for the night.

Again, Marc Andre was dead on and played amazingly. He has not lost a game this season! He is 7-0.

With his strong support and the goal scoring abilties of now pretty much the whole team, the Pittsburgh chemistry and power are rising!

Lets go Pens!

Cheering for Sid the Kid to take on TBL =)

2009-10-16T14:14:00.000-07:00

Bobo, the Official Mascot of the Icing on the Skates, wore a Crosby jersey in honor of our talented young Captain.

He is too cute and full of enthusiasm for tomorrow's first home game in a while against the Tampa Bay Lightning and former Penguin Ryan Malone!

The Hurricanes couldn't put out the fire of the LONGEST shootout I have ever seen.

2009-10-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

(Photo Courtesy of Bleacher Report and Getty Images)

Penguins faced off against the Hurricanes tonight in Carolina in their fourth and final game on their road trip.

The first goal of the game followed some fire hits from Carolina, who was putting the pressure on the Penguins with some forceful and moderately unnecessary hits. Mike Rupp has had enough of these hard hits and shows once again that the Penguins take no abuse. He skated right down the ice and scored the first goal!

The second goal was a nice one by Geno Malkin, sliding it past the strong glove hand of Cam Ward. Malkin also took a stick to the face later on, which drew blood but only gave Pittsburgh a two minute penalty.

Pittsburgh went into the third period with a 2-0 lead. But it didn't last long. Ray Whitney (who was also dangerous during the playoffs) scored two goals in order to tie up the game. Both were assisted by Tuomo Ruutu.

The Game goes into such an intense overtime. This is one of the most exciting regular season games anyone could ask for! Pens had complete control during overtime but couldn't get it past Cam Ward. They kept setting up around the net and the Two-headed Monster was ready to strike but couldn't follow through.

And then things REALLY heated up!

The Game went into the LONGEST shootout I have personally ever seen. 6 shooters on EACH side. The shootout went as follows:

Sergei Samsonov Miss
Kris Letang Miss
Jussi Jokinen Score
Sidney Crosby Score
Tuomo Ruutu Miss
Bill Guerin Miss
Matt Cullen Miss
Alex Goligoski Miss
Ray Whitney Miss
Evgeni Malkin Miss
Eric Staal Miss
Chris Kunitz GAME WINNING GOAL!

I just heard Mark Madden on 105.9 the X say that Kunitz has only scored 1 goal in something like 34 games! What a way to get back on track with that GWG today!

But what this shootout really showed was the unmatched talents of Marc-Andre Fleury and Cam Ward. These two Canadian goalies are unbelievably talented. With the Olympics coming up this January, the question is always out there as to which Canadian goalie will get to start. Previous bets have been on Robert Luongo of the Canucks, but a serious look needs to be taken at these two as well.

P.S. the Longest the Shootout ever went to 15 shooters on each side, or 30 total! Here is an article about it! It was Rangers vs Caps in 2005.

Game tomorrow against Carolina!

2009-10-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow will be the first game against the 'Canes since Pittsburgh swept them out of the way to becoming Eastern Conference Champs. I highly respect the Hurricanes and felt kind of bad for them when we dominated that series on our way to the Cup and thus I am looking forward to the game tomorrow!

I love playing Carolina because it usually a really exciting game, and I am secretly a pretty big fan of Eric Staal. But I can't wait to see them loose-- It is always a good time to see Cam Ward fail. You see I respect them, but I still cheer on the Penguins all the way! No worries.

I heard a rumor that Jussi Jokinen, a big scorer for Carolina, may not playing due to an injury.Which could make Pittsburgh's job even easier.

At any rate it will be a great game.
Bobo is excited:

He's a huge Pens fan!

Take it to a vote by the Senators, The Penguins are on a winning Streak!

2009-10-12T19:28:00.000-07:00

What a team of winners we are=) It is not even fair. With 14 goals in the past 3 games and a 5-1 record so far this season, Pittsburgh is proving just why it is on top of the hockey world.

The Penguins are currently tied with the Rangers for most wins so far, according to nhl.com's stats pages.

And tonight was no exception. The Penguins took on the Ottawa Senators in Ottawa. Though the Senators scored the first goal, Pittsburgh allowed for no filibusters (Please laugh at my jokes). The goal was answered just seconds after and continued to finish the game 4-1.

Billy Guerin and Jordan Staal again emerging as goal scorers tonight. I think it says so much about this team that we have arguably the two best hockey players in the world, Malkin and Crosby, but win many games with out them scoring. We have a well rounded team this year, with a lot of balance and talent in every direction.

Just the recipe, I think, for another Stanley Cup.

But the real excitement today was TYLER KENNEDY! He scored 2 goals and played an insane game. Craig Adams got the assist on both goals! I'm telling you both of these players are rising to the top and I think we will continue to see great things. Kennedy can sometimes be quiet on the score board, but he has already scored 4 this season.

Also, one time I got to talk to him and get his signature, see my older blog post.
But here is some footage from tonight's game courtesy of NHL.com highlights:

Penguins leave no Leaf unraked

2009-10-10T20:42:00.000-07:00

Pittsburgh faced the Maple Leafs for the first time in regular season after several preseason match-ups. They win 5-2 with a couple of power play goals and some great teamwork. Although the Toronto Maple Leafs kind of made the Flyers look like choir boys tonight, the Penguins proved once again that they can't be bullied into a loss.

There were a couple of great fights. It seemed like everyone was taking everyone down!

But it was a game with loads of momentum. Crosby was on with 2 power play goals. Malkin got 3 assists. Both were able to show us again and again why they are the best young players in the NHL.

Sergei Gonchar even got both a goal and an assist! It was a high scoring night for all, and generally a great deal of fun.

Pittsburgh is off to a great start this season 4 wins and 1 loss so far!
Here is a break down of where the goals came from in tonight's game: (Hopefully if Pittsburgh keeps this up, the future will be bright)

Iframe

Penguins beat Flyers, but ending incidents disappoint all

2009-10-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

The Penguins didn't let last night’s game get them down. They managed a win, a fair win, a beautiful win in Philadelphia. Jordan Staal pulled off a short-handed goal. He is making those pretty standard. It was also exciting when Coburn scored on his own net=) He was trying to center the puck, but his aim was very poor. That is something you do not see every day! The goal was luckily accredited to Alex Goligoski because he was close by. Hey, I'll take it! Here is a You Tube video of this totally on accident goal:

But unfortunately after the last few seconds of play, I cannot think about any of that.

There were about 2 seconds left on the clock. Pittsburgh was up a goal and going to win. The Flyers couldn't handle that, call it poor sportsmanship or years of rivalry, but what it really was like watching a blunt forced trauma. I felt like I was watching law and order. First off all the brave captain Mike Richards tackled Marc-Andre Fleury, after play was stopped. They were at a break in the action while all of this occured. Matt Cooke was actually getting choked. I think that was by Carter.

And of course, Scott Hartnell couldn't leave himself out of the mess. He ran from behind and tackled a completely unaware Kris Letang. He just tackled him! Took him down to the ice and possibly hurt his finger (which I am now hearing a rumor that he may have BITTEN his finger, really?)

Now fighting often happens in the NHL, and I think that it is important to the game. It is, however, moderately necessary that the players drop their gloves or nod or show some form of consent before they engage. Letang was unaware. Letang was practically brutally attacked. The clock wasn't even ticking. I have so many things to say about this:

1. HARTNELL, BE A MAN AND FIGHT PEOPLE WITH CONSENT
2. HARTNELL, YOU ARE NOT IN ULTIMATE FIGHTING
3. RICHARDS, YOU NEVER ATTACK GOALIES
4. TO CHOKE SOMEONE IS NEVER FAIR GAME, IN ANY SPORT
5. ITS NOT JUST POOR SPORTSMANSHIP, IT SEEMS LIKE A BORDERLINE CRIMINAL OFFENSE

Think about it. If someone just tackled you from behind for no reason and hurt you pretty badly, pulling a stick up into your throat, what would you do? Probably call the cops. That’s what should happen here. When you play sports you consent to injury but not on a break in the action.

If Hartnell is not suspended and nothing comes of this, shame on you NHL. What kind of example are you setting for future sore losers? "Its okay, its totally cool to hurt people because you are mad you lost." What are American sports all about if we let this kind of stuff happen?

Now please don't get me wrong, I think fights are essential to the NHL.(See my previous post on this ongoing debate) But cheap shots, and dirty attacks from behind are not fighting. The Flyers should not get away with this. Also, I am not just saying this because I dislike the Flyers. If Kris Letang would have done the same to Hartnell (Well maybe not so much Hartnell because it is not his first offense), Okay Richards then I would be equally angry.

I am very excited that Pittsburgh won and both sides played a pretty clean game. It was a great and exciting match, pretty close up until the end. Goal after goal, it was an intense match-up and both teams had skilled players score goals. Everyone could have left feeling like they played a good and fair game with the exception of this event.

Do you feel the same way I do about this?
What do you think this says about the NHL if we let this kind of stuff occur?

No worries, I'll keep you updated. But I doubt any suspension or anything will come because it is Philly and they get away with this daily. This is just kind of how I feel about this debate, it is a current issue in Hockey and kind of fun to discuss. Please feel free to comment and tell me what you think!

Painful Bite from the Coyotes, WWGRD?

2009-10-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, the one and only Scary Gary Roberts was in the Mellon Arena this evening watching the game with Mario Lemieux. The famous player who wore the number 10 with the Penguins in their Stanley Cup run of '08. He played his last season with Tampa Bay, but is now retired. He is a talented player that I highly respect but I remember him most as Scary Gary- because Superman wears Gary Roberts Pajamas and because the Boogy Man checks his closet for Gary Roberts:

Oh, Gary! He has a daughter my age, how much do I wish I was her best friend?

As for the game? It hurt. We took an insane amount of unnecessary penalties. Brent Johnson looked so nervous to start with, and yes he needs the ice time and the practice but after letting in two goals- one in the first and one in the second- WWGRD? (What would Gary Roberts Do?)

I think Gary would have pulled him. Well maybe not, he made some great saves. He was just making me too nervous. He didn't have the confidence or maybe he was underestimating the Coyotes (who he used to play for in 2003-2004).

I hate to write this kind of stuff, but sometimes it is necessary: What game were the referees watching exactly? Because it wasn't the same one I was watching. Yes, some calls were fair. But Matt Cooke and Tyler Kennedy took some heavy beatings and Cooke just kept ending up in the box. Also Phoenix had too many men on the ice and no call. Alex Goligoski scored, but it didn't count. Pish Posh!

After much pursuit and frustration, Pittsburgh lost their edge and got kind of sloppy. They missed passes and couldn't properly set up in front of the Phoenix net.

It is true that Pittsburgh is the team to beat this year. Everyone wants to say they topped the Stanley Cup Champs. All non-Pittsburgh Fans want to see the Penguins lose. So everyone is bringing their very best game and the intensity is constantly higher. The team has to catch up and has to be able to take on these challengers and continuously grow if they want to win another Cup.

WWGRD? He would probably know that winning three games in a row is hard. But getting shutout at home is painful, especially with an empty-netter.

I just hope this discouragement doesn't hurt us tomorrow. Pittsburgh is going to need absolutely every tool up their sleeve to take down Philadelphia because they will be fighting their hardest possible cage fight. We all know there is a solid rivalry there, and some left over anger from years of Playoffs. Tomorrow night, 7pm in Philly. Let's Go Pens!

The only time I will ever be happy that the Flyers won

2009-10-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last night, the Capitals played the Flyers in Philadelphia. It was a crazy, insane, high-scoring game that I just had to watch. For some reason it is pleasant and entertaining to watch two teams that I hate most in the world battle it out.

Alex Ovechkin vs. Scottie Hartnell: It is so hard to decide who I dislike more! But it is certainly well worth my time to watch them play each other.

Flyers Captain Mike Richards scored a Hat trick with two goals about a minute apart in the Second Period. I certainly hold true to Pittsburgh's rivalry against these cage fighters, but that is a pretty impressive feat.

It was such a close match-up between the two evils and in the third period Scottie Hartnell (sometimes known as Ogie Ogilthorpe- take it or leave it) ties the game at 5 sending it into overtime!

Caps go into overtime with a power play and things were starting to get scary. Though they are my least favorite team in the league, and I hate to see them win ever, when the Capitals set up around any team's night it is a FRIGHTENING thing. Scarier than most big-budget horror films, I might add. And thus I actually found myself cheering for the Flyers, the lesser of two evils I suppose.

I greatly enjoyed Ovechkin and Semin's faces when Briere scored the winning goal for Philadelphia.

They are both dangerous teams this year and will bring their strongest games when playing Pittsburgh. We play the Flyers tomorrow away, but we don't play the Caps until January. That is a game I have to get tickets to because it will be priceless.

Tonight we play the Phoenix Coyotes, a western conference team that we don't meet often. The game is at 7:30pm and at home=) LETS GO PENS.

P.s. I need to further this strong correlation between Scottie Hartnell and Ogie Ogilthorpe.

(Photos courtesy of Google Images)
Can you tell the difference? because I can't.

Just in case you are unaware of who Ogie is, he is a comical character from the movie Slapshot. If you haven't seen it I highly recommend it.

Shopping for Penguins gear?

2009-10-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

The Penguins are already off to a great start winning 2 of 2 games! Maybe you are looking to shop for a new Penguins shirt, hat, or other such merchandise. I know I can rarely stop myself from buying it. Here is a map of some great local places to check out:

View Pittsburgh Penguins Gear Shopping in a larger map

Also, Amazon and The official NHL shop
are two great places for online shopping if you are interested! Let me know if you find anything exciting to buy, or something you really want! (The hockey fights breast cancer line is cute and for a good cause)

Super Saturday Shootout Success!

2009-10-04T19:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was what is known as "Super Saturday". All 30 teams in the NHL played in a match yesterday, what a great way to kick off the season. Unfortunately it is nearly impossible to catch all of matches, but their outcomes preview this season in a big way showing which teams in the conferences are ready!

The Penguins played the New York Islanders.It was a close match going into shootout and winning with a goal by Kris Letang and Sid Crosby with the SOW. Pittsburgh's overtime four on four was outstanding and looked like a new strategy. The puck didn't quite make it into the net in overtime but Pittsburgh had complete control.

What an exciting day for hockey fans everywhere! I was on a retreat, and unfortunately missed all of the games! (Don't worry I watched the Penguins game today) But here is a video that I watched on NHL.com that helped me to catch up on everything that happened:

Go Go Goligoski and Goddard!

2009-10-02T18:38:00.000-07:00

The third Stanley Cup Champion banner was hung. The Stanley Cup sat center ice for the last time before going back to Toronto. The team was introduced, and the fans went crazy. Max Talbot even made a surprise appearance! It was an emotional introduction that pumped up the crowd and players! It made me SO excited, and made me remember just how exciting hockey season is.

The Penguins played the Rangers.
It was tied at 1 after the first period, one goal attributed to Malkin, assisted by Sergei Gonchar. Drury had the first New York goal.

But the real score of the first period was when Eric Godard challenged Donald Brashear, and the two got into one of the best fights I've seen in a while. Brashear is a known fighter and since he started playing in the NHL in 1992 he has been the "tough guy" for the Canadians, the Canucks, the Flyers, and Capitals. I've always found him an interesting character because even though he is the kind of guy to take 6 game suspensions due to altercations, he is also an accomplished pianist (Or so i've heard).

Godard has been the only Penguin since George Laraque to really instigate fights and sometimes I think its annoying, but tonight it was priceless. At first I thought he was going to loose, but with a few great uppercuts he was the clear winner and left the tough guy Brashear's bald head bleeding. Check it out:

A good fight can be key, and it was because in the following period the Penguins dominated with 2 goals- one from Sid Crosby and one from (wait for it) Alex Goligoski! I must admit that I was a little weary about him this year. He is playing great though! With that goal today and also he made some nice plays.

The Penguins came on strong to win their first game of the season and even though New York came on strong, very strong, Pittsburgh was ready.

Marian Gaborik scored one more for the Rangers in the third, and they put up a good fight trying to send it in to overtime but Marc Andre was ready for it allowing the Penguins to win in regular time.

Gaborik is an extremely talented player and this is his first year with the rangers. After being drafted 3rd overall in the 2000 draft he played for the Minnesota Wild. He actually once scored 6 goals in one game against the Rangers. I think he is fitting in well with them, but I am curious how well he meshs with Sean Avery who didn't play today.

I must say it was a great start to this season!

Hockey Moms play 2k10

2009-10-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

I saw this commercial on TV the other day for NHL 2k10, the new video game. And though all of the commercials for this video game overly praise Ovechkin, this latest one was so cute and funny that I had to share it with you.

"I'm going to bake you into a lemon bar and eat you," she said! Ah, the latest battle cry of hockey stars everywhere.

Tonight is the opening if the 92nd season of the NHL, and for the Pittsburgh Penguins it is probably their last chance it hoist the cup before winning it again. They get one last party tonight before taking on the New York Rangers.

I'm not sure if Sean Avery is playing, though. I heard that he was injured and on Day to Day. I doubt he would want to miss a chance to play on the opening night of the season, but it depends how badly injured he is.

Speaking of injured people, the superstar Max Talbot will still be out for a few more months. I miss him already, but the Post-Gazette published an amazing article about him today.

Let's go Pens!