Pittsburgh Penguins (8-3-2, 18 Pts) @ San Jose Sharks (6-4-0, 12 Pts)
10:30 PM HP Pavilion
Watch: Root Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Thursday, November 3, 2011
GameDay Game #14: Penguins @ Sharks
The Penguins make their second trip out west and this time it is to face-off against the San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings. The trip begins tonight at 10:30 against the Sharks and concludes Saturday night against the Kings. Then the Pens are off until the 11th when they return home to take on the Dallas Stars. Could be a game that everyone remembers where they are. We will see.
Monday, October 31, 2011
NHL Realignment: Rivalries Destroyed
All over the internet Pens fans have been in an uproar with the newest proposed division realignment which apparently "has been gaining steam." We may have a grudge against the new plan because we would be seeing much less of that other team from the other side of the state. The Pens and Flyers would meet only two times each season under the new realignment plan as the teams would be split up into two separate divisions. After the jump we will take a look at the proposed format and provide some thoughts on this plan.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
GameDay Game #9: Penguins v. Canadians
The Montreal Canadians come to town tonight with the puck set to drop at 7:00 PM. The Penguins welcome back Brooks Orpik to the lineup, and it couldn't come at a better time. The Penguins have been battling injuries and a suspension through the first eight games of the season, so anyone who can be inserted back into the lineup is a welcomed addition.
Pittsburgh Penguins (4-2-2) vs. Montreal Canadians (1-3-1)
7:00 PM CONSOL Energy Center
Watch: Root Sports Pittsburgh
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
This is Who We Are: Pens Win 4-2
Facing the possibility of going winless in four games, on the road, and on back-to-back nights, the Penguins pulled out a gritty performance on route to their fourth win of the season. Their backs were against the wall because of injuries and a suspension, but the Penguins did what they've been doing for the past year. They dug deep and found a way to win.
Penguins 4 - Wild 2
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
GameDay Game #8: Penguins @ Wild
Before you read this post look at your calendar and notice what month it is. Yes, it is still october. A three game losing streak would not be the end of the world. The Pens are dealing with another long list of injuries and will be without Kris Letang who is suspended for two games.
Pittsburgh Penguins (3-2-2) @ Minnesota Wild (2-1-1)
7:30 PM Xcel Energy Center
Watch: Versus, ROOT Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Letang Grounded for Two Games.
Kris Letang went into Grandpa Shanahan's Corner and the verdict is that Letang will be grounded for two games with no video games.
On one side you have the fact that you want the game to be cleaner and safer, on the other hand, you want players who are about to take on contact to be a bit responsible.
The result is fine as long as Grandpa Shanny makes these decisions consistently, which of course will not happen because this is the NHL.
Shanny says that Letang was never playing the puck, Burmistrov's path was predictable, that he made no sudden moves, and Letang didn't minimize the impact of the check. Letang was also fined for a similar infraction before, so this verdict coming out of Shanahan's Corner means he is a repeat offender.
On one side you have the fact that you want the game to be cleaner and safer, on the other hand, you want players who are about to take on contact to be a bit responsible.
The result is fine as long as Grandpa Shanny makes these decisions consistently, which of course will not happen because this is the NHL.
Shanny says that Letang was never playing the puck, Burmistrov's path was predictable, that he made no sudden moves, and Letang didn't minimize the impact of the check. Letang was also fined for a similar infraction before, so this verdict coming out of Shanahan's Corner means he is a repeat offender.
Penguins Lose 2-1
Jets 2 - Penguins 1
The Jets scored only seconds into the first period. Then they took a 2-0 lead before the period ended.
The Penguins struck just before the end of the second period to pull within a goal when Zbynek Michalek found the back of the net off of an offensive zone face-off.. However, they could not beat Pavelec to tie the game.
This was by far the worst game the Penguins had played all year. The Pens haven't scored a power play goal in while. This was the type of game where the power play could have helped, and it is the type of game that the Pens need the power play to help.
Pens are injured and it is starting to feel as if this team is hitting a wall while playing with out Malkin and Crosby.
They need to pull through that tonight, losing three games in a row is a losing streak.
Monday, October 17, 2011
GameDay Game #7: Penguins at Jets
No we didn't just travel back to the mid-90s. It is still the year 2011 and the Pittsburgh Penguins are in Winnipeg to take on the Jets tonight. The Penguins haven't played in Winnipeg since February 16, 1996 when Jaromir Jagr scored the only goal of game, and Tom Barrasso stopped all 32 shots. The scene in Winnipeg has been great, and the Pens face a very loud crowd.
Pittsburgh Penguins (3-1-2) @ Winnipeg Jets (0-3-0)
8:30 PM MTS Centre
Watch: ROOT Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Whatever: Pens lose 3-2
The first lost of the season sucks. Don't feel like blogging about it.
Sabres 3 - Penguins 2
Sabres scored two first period goals. Luke Adam is on another planet right now.
James Neal scored his league leading 5th goal in the second.
Sabres scored again in the third.
Staal scored and pulled the Pens within one. Pens couldn't score. Game
First loss of the season. No big deal.
Neal is still scoring goals. That's a good thing.
Still need more from Staal and TK.
Wish Geno would be healthy.
Pens go to Winnipeg on Monday.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
GameDay Game #6: Pens v. Sabres
The Penguins get no breaks from the NHL schedule makers as the rejuvenated Buffalo Sabres come to town for a Saturday night matchup inside the CONSOL Energy Center. The Sabres are coming off of a 4-3 loss Friday night against the Carolina Hurricanes. The Penguins are coming off of a 3-2 overtime loss to the Capitals Thursday night.
The Sabres are 2-1-0 on the season and sit in 6th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Penguins have swept the 2010-11 regular season and have won 6 straight against the Sabres dating back to February 1, 2010.
The Sabres are 2-1-0 on the season and sit in 6th place in the Eastern Conference.
The Penguins have swept the 2010-11 regular season and have won 6 straight against the Sabres dating back to February 1, 2010.
Pittsburgh Penguins (3-0-2) vs. Buffalo Sabres (2-1-0)
CONSOL Energy Center 7:00 PM
Watch: ROOT Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Friday, October 14, 2011
Just One of Those Games: Pens Lose 3-2 (OT)
First of all, it's still October, and Sidney Crosby and Brooks Orpik are still not in the Pens line up. Second of all, it's still October and the power play scored a huge third period goal to tie the game and secure a point. Third of all, it's still October and the Pens have yet to lose in regulation, which means they have secured a point in all five games they have played. Finally, the Pens outshot the Capitals 41-19. You can take it to the bank that if the Pens play the way they did in 4 out of 7 games of a playoff series, Alexander Ovechkin and the Capitals are on the wrong side of the handshake line once again. They didn't win last night, but they still played some good hockey. There is no need to any type of panic.
Capitals 3 - Penguins 2 (OT)
Asham KO's Beagle
Arron Asham knocked out Jay Beagle in a third period fight in last night's tilt against the Capitals. While many have criticized Asham for this post-fight celebration, he owned up to the gesture during his post game comments.
The criticism given to Asham is unwarranted and unjustified. Asham is not that type of player, and clearly was caught in the heat of the moment. Beagle decided to take a fight against an opponent who clearly outmatched him and paid for it after getting in a few of his own shots.
That is hockey, and fighting is part of hockey. Let's not turn the NHL into the NFL, where players can't even raise their arms after a big play or they are flagged for excessive celebration.
The Pens need players like Asham for when other teams take runs at our stars. With Sid on the verge of returning teams need to know they will have to answer the bell when they cross the line with one of our stars.
Beagle got into it with Letang and then he had to answer the bell against Asham. That is how hockey works. He got knocked out. Capitals fans will cry all season long.
The criticism given to Asham is unwarranted and unjustified. Asham is not that type of player, and clearly was caught in the heat of the moment. Beagle decided to take a fight against an opponent who clearly outmatched him and paid for it after getting in a few of his own shots.
That is hockey, and fighting is part of hockey. Let's not turn the NHL into the NFL, where players can't even raise their arms after a big play or they are flagged for excessive celebration.
The Pens need players like Asham for when other teams take runs at our stars. With Sid on the verge of returning teams need to know they will have to answer the bell when they cross the line with one of our stars.
Beagle got into it with Letang and then he had to answer the bell against Asham. That is how hockey works. He got knocked out. Capitals fans will cry all season long.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Let the Hate Begin: GameDay Game #5: Pens v. Capitals
Just when you thought you could buckle down and get into a groove for this 2011-12 season, you wake up pull up the calendar on your phone, and notice the Washington Capitals blocked out for 7 PM. Your blood begins to boil, and you suddenly become angry. Welcome the hate, it's a good thing. The rivalry will be renewed at the CONSOL Energy Center tonight, for the first of four regular season games between the Penguins and Capitals.
Pittsburgh Penguins (3-0-1) vs. Washington Capitals (2-0-0)
7:00 PM CONSOL Energy Center
Watch: ROOT Sports, NHL Network
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9
Pens & Caps Teams up to Support Lokomotiv Family Members
The Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals will set aside their differences at least for a few minutes before the puck drops tonight at the CONSOL Energy Center in order to raise money for surviving family members of KHL Lokomotiv Yaroslavl players who perishes in a plane crash on September 7.
The Penguins and Capitals will wear commemorative patches on their jerseys during tonights game and the jerseys will be auctioned off on NHL.com, with all proceeds going to the Lokomotiv families.
The Penguins and Capitals will wear commemorative patches on their jerseys during tonights game and the jerseys will be auctioned off on NHL.com, with all proceeds going to the Lokomotiv families.
The Penguins' wives and girlfriends will be selling remembrance bracelets at tonights game.
Evgeni Malkin as been the driving force behind this event, and it shows what type of person Geno is.
You can donate or buy bracelets here.
Pens Extend Kunitz for 2 Years
The Penguins have extended Chris Kunitz through the 2013-14 season and will pay him an average of $3.725 million each year.
As one of the only wingers who can consistently skate on Sidney Crosby's wing, the contract extension has to be welcomed as the Pens will retain some chemistry on their top line.
As one of the only wingers who can consistently skate on Sidney Crosby's wing, the contract extension has to be welcomed as the Pens will retain some chemistry on their top line.
Sidney Crosby Cleared for Contact
Penguins captain has taken the next step in his recovery from a concussion suffered nine months ago during the 2011 Winter Classic. This is a huge step in getting back on the ice for the Penguins.
Sid hasn't suffered any setbacks since participating in practices with the Pens since training camp started.
Full contact and possibly even getting into the lineup in the near future had to be on the radar of Pens' management as Sid was placed on the injured reserve list and not the long term injured reserve list.
Sid hasn't suffered any setbacks since participating in practices with the Pens since training camp started.
Full contact and possibly even getting into the lineup in the near future had to be on the radar of Pens' management as Sid was placed on the injured reserve list and not the long term injured reserve list.
Flyers Fans Support Cancer?
Just when you think Philadelphia can't go any lower, they somehow manage to do exactly that. During their home opener against the Canucks the fans inside the Wells Fargo Center booed the NHL Hockey Fights Cancer Commercial.
Of course it was because Sidney Crosby was featured in the video.
We understand the man-crush that Flyers fans have on Sid, and how they have to hide their true feelings by booing him, but why do it in a video that is trying to raise money for cancer?
Because it's Philadelphia, and the fans have no souls.
Here is the link from Puck Daddy
Of course it was because Sidney Crosby was featured in the video.
We understand the man-crush that Flyers fans have on Sid, and how they have to hide their true feelings by booing him, but why do it in a video that is trying to raise money for cancer?
Because it's Philadelphia, and the fans have no souls.
Here is the link from Puck Daddy
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
New Season Same Outcome: Pens Win 4-2
Pens fans thought we'd have some relief on the injury bug when the Pens started season, but that is not how the cards were dealt. With Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Brooks Orpik all out of the lineup, the Penguins continue to fine ways to put victories into the win column. The Pen's moved 3-0-1 and have taken 7 of 8 possible points to start the season with their first win in a home opener at the CONSOL Energy center.
The Penguins would win this game just like they did last season when their two superstars weren't in the lineup. With strong defensive play and great penalty killing effort.
The penalty killing unit is perfect through four games killing off all 16 penalties.
Pascal Dupuis opened the scoring at 14:57 of the first period on a goal that was assisted by Joe Vitale and Kris Letang.
Matt Cooke gave the Pens a two goal cushion off a pass from Joe Vitale, who had two assists in the game, and is proving that he is a more that suitable replacement for Max Talbot.
Marcel Goc would pull the panthers back within a goal at 12:06 of the second, scored by Marcel Goc.
Richard Park would score his first goal back as a Penguin shorthanded at 15:21 of the second period. Park's first ever goal as a Penguin also came as a shorthanded tally.
The Panthers would strike early in the third to pull within a goal, when Tomas Fleischmann scored at 3:16 into the period, and it looked like the Penguins third period woes would continue.
That was until James Neal stuffed home a loose puck at 6:39 to regain the Pens' two goal lead.
The Pens would hold onto that lead until the game ended and would move to 3-0-1 on the season.
POFA's Notes
Joe Vitale has been playing some great hockey, and likely has solidified his place in the lineup for the time being. He has been the go-to guy in face-offs and has been routinely clicking near 60% on his draws.
Kris Letang is already having a whale of a season. He currently leads the league in points with 6 (1G, 5A).
Matt Cooke is currently tied for the league lead in goal scoring with 6.
POFA's Play of the Game
Marc-Andre Fleury and Ben Lovejoy combine to keep the puck out of the net as it was fluttering on the goal-line.
The Penguins take on the Washington Capitals on Thursday evening at the CONSOL Energy Center.
Penguins 4-Panthers 2
The penalty killing unit is perfect through four games killing off all 16 penalties.
Pascal Dupuis opened the scoring at 14:57 of the first period on a goal that was assisted by Joe Vitale and Kris Letang.
Matt Cooke gave the Pens a two goal cushion off a pass from Joe Vitale, who had two assists in the game, and is proving that he is a more that suitable replacement for Max Talbot.
Marcel Goc would pull the panthers back within a goal at 12:06 of the second, scored by Marcel Goc.
Richard Park would score his first goal back as a Penguin shorthanded at 15:21 of the second period. Park's first ever goal as a Penguin also came as a shorthanded tally.
The Panthers would strike early in the third to pull within a goal, when Tomas Fleischmann scored at 3:16 into the period, and it looked like the Penguins third period woes would continue.
That was until James Neal stuffed home a loose puck at 6:39 to regain the Pens' two goal lead.
The Pens would hold onto that lead until the game ended and would move to 3-0-1 on the season.
POFA's Notes
Joe Vitale has been playing some great hockey, and likely has solidified his place in the lineup for the time being. He has been the go-to guy in face-offs and has been routinely clicking near 60% on his draws.
Kris Letang is already having a whale of a season. He currently leads the league in points with 6 (1G, 5A).
Matt Cooke is currently tied for the league lead in goal scoring with 6.
POFA's Play of the Game
Marc-Andre Fleury and Ben Lovejoy combine to keep the puck out of the net as it was fluttering on the goal-line.
The Penguins take on the Washington Capitals on Thursday evening at the CONSOL Energy Center.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
GameDay Game #4: Home Opener Pens v. Panthers
Finally, It's a Hockey Night in Pittsburgh. After taking 5 of 6 possible points from a season opening Western Canada road-trip, the Pens return home to the friendly confines of the CONSOL Energy Center to take on the Florida Panthers.
The Panthers have basically a completely new team after free agency this summer. Jose Theodore has somewhat owned the pens in the past and will get the start for the Panthers this evening. The Penguins swept the four game season series last year.
The Panthers have basically a completely new team after free agency this summer. Jose Theodore has somewhat owned the pens in the past and will get the start for the Panthers this evening. The Penguins swept the four game season series last year.
Pittsburgh Penguins (2-0-1) vs. Florida Panthers (1-0-0)
7:30 PM CONSOL Energy Center
Watch: ROOT Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
Sunday, October 9, 2011
GameDay Game #3: Penguins @ Oilers
Just a quick preview of the Pens taking on the Oilers in Edmonton today. The Pens look to sweep their season opening three game road trip before coming home and playing in their home opener against the Florida Panthers Tuesday night. The Penguins will be on the other end of another team's home opener for the third night in a row.
Pittsburgh Penguins (2-0-0) @ Edmonton Oilers (0-0-0)
10:00 PM Rexall Place
Watch: ROOT Sports
Listen: Penguins 24/7 Radio, 105.9 FM
The only likely change to the Penguins lineup is that Brent Johnson may get the nod between the pipes. Evgeni Malkin had his ice time limited due to the score of the game, and not because of injury according to Dan Bylsma.
Edmonton's Potential Lines
Forwards
Taylor Hall-Ryan Nugent-Ales Hemsky
Ryan Smith-Eric Belanger-Jordan eberle
Magnus Paajarvi-Shawn Horcoff-Linus Omark
Darcy Hordichuk-Anton Lander-Ryan Jones
Defensemen
Theo Peckham-Ladislav Smid
Andy Sutton-Tom Gilbert
Cam Barker-Jeff Petry
Goaltender
Devan Dubnyk
Chilled in the Second: Pens win 5-3
The Pens used 4 unanswered goals from Tyler Kennedy, Matt Niskanen, Craig Adams, and Evgeni Malkin in the second period to win their second straight game to move to 2-0 to start the season. The Pens avoided a third period collapse preserving a one goal lead until Jordan Staal scored an empty net goal with only seconds remaining giving the Pens a 5-3 victory.
POFA's Three Stars
3. Jordan Staal
2. Kris Letang
1. Matt Niskanen.
Sorry for the brief recap, but today is a Yinzer holiday. Steelers during the afternoon, and the Pens with the night-cap.
Joe Vitale was really impressive last night winning 11 out of 20 face-offs.
Matt Cooke took a hit to the head that was not penalized. It was a shoulder, but if the roles were reversed Cooke would have been having face time with the NHL.
The Pens play the Oilers tonight at 9:00 PM.
POFA's Three Stars
3. Jordan Staal
2. Kris Letang
1. Matt Niskanen.
Sorry for the brief recap, but today is a Yinzer holiday. Steelers during the afternoon, and the Pens with the night-cap.
Joe Vitale was really impressive last night winning 11 out of 20 face-offs.
Matt Cooke took a hit to the head that was not penalized. It was a shoulder, but if the roles were reversed Cooke would have been having face time with the NHL.
The Pens play the Oilers tonight at 9:00 PM.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
GameDay Game #2: Penguins @ Flames
Pittsburgh Penguins (1-0-0) @ Calgary Flames (0-0-0)
10:00 P.M. Scotia Bank Saddledome
Watch: Root Sports Pittsburgh
Listen: Penguins Radio 24/7, 105.9 FM
Friday, October 7, 2011
Late Night Cooke-ing: Pens Win 4-3(SO)
The first win of every season feels so great, but the first win of the the season that comes on the road in Western Canada feels even better. The Pens saw their power play score on two out of three changes, and the goals came from two guys the Pens are hoping to have a big impact on the season. We learned that Matt Cooke made a statement that he will be a contender for the Rocket Richard Trophy. Really, Matt Cooke is leading the league in scoring.
Penguins 4--Canucks 3 (2-0 SO)
Late Night Cooke-ing: Pens Win 4-3(SO)
The first win of every season feels so great. The first win of the season on the road in Western Canada feels even better. The Pens saw their power play score on two out of three chances, and those goals came from two guys the Pens were hoping to have a big impact on the season. What we learned from this game is that Matt Cooke made a statement that he will be a contender for the Rocket Richard trophy. So that may be a stretch, but he does lead the league in goal scoring. Just saying'.
Penguins 4--Canucks 3 (2-0 SO)
Thursday, October 6, 2011
GameDay Game #1: Pens at Canucks
Pittsburgh Penguins (0-0-0) @ Vancouver Canucks (0-0-0)
10:00 P.M. Rodgers Center
TV: Versus
Radio: 105.9 The X--Also streaming live on the Pens' website.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Crosby Participates in Controlled Scrimmage
No clue what a controlled scrimmage is, but Sid participated it in. There was no contact as Sid is still not cleared for contact. This is still encouraging however, being that Sid has yet to suffer from any concussions symptoms during his limited participation in training camp.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Staal'ed until the 3rd: Pens win 4-1
Last night was cool because it was the first time we saw the Pens skate since April, and the first time we've seen Evgeni Malkin since he suffered his knee injury. Tonight however, was a different story, and the game was basically a snooze-fest, until the third period.
First Period
Absolutely nothing went on in the first period. Both teams look like they are playing a preseason game. Pens failed to convert on a power play when Pittsburgh native Brandon Saad took a two minute minor for boarding at 13:45. The Pens then killed off a Matt Cooke two minute hi-sticking penalty at 16:01. At the end of the period the Pens had the lead in shots 5-3. Lovejoy has been skating well and doing so with confidence. This performance will have him as a favorite for the 5th or 6th spot on the blue-line.
Second Period
The second period started much like the first, both teams clearly in preseason form. Then at 10:32 of the period Michael Frolik beat Brent Johnson to put the Hawks up 1-0.
The Pens did have a power play at 15:34, but again failed to convert. Eric Tangradi did provide some good net presence on the power play, however. The Hawks took the lead into the third. Engelland took six hits into the third. Picard led all Pens players with 17:48 in ice time. Pens led the Hawks 13-10 in shots at the end of the second frame.
Third Period
Scott Monroe gets the go for the start of the third. Pens finally came out with some rhythm and really moved the puck to start the period. Tyler Kennedy ripped a wrist-shot that was deflected by Nick Johnson off the post, and Jordan Staal cleaned up the garbage to tie the game at one goal a piece.
Pens then got a third power play opportunity shortly after the goal, but again failed to convert.
Jordan Staal picked up his game all of a sudden and had a couple of good opportunities. Lovejoy had another strong period, breaking up potential threats around the Pens' net. The tide starting turning towards the Pens as they finally began to pick up their play.
The Pens then took the 2-1 when Matt Cookeelbowed deflected a Craig Adams backhand-shot into the net at 10:42 into the period.
Tyler Kennedy put the Pens up 3-1 at 14:14 of the period when he jammed home a looks puck in front of the Hawks net.
Hawks pulled Ray Emery with a little over a minute left, then put him back in only to be embarrassed by Jordan Staal with eight seconds remaining.
Game. 4-1 Pens.
Notes
Pens outshot the Hawks 27-16. Zbynek Michalek led all Penguins players with 23:03 of ice time. Pens take on the Minnesota Wild Saturday afternoon at the CONSOL Energy Center.
Thoughts
The Pens turned it up in the third period and scored four unanswered goals. Jordan Staal was a beast in the third period and his late goal was a thing of beauty. A health Staal and Malkin and the Pens will be just fine this season. Ben Lovejoy had a great game, as did Deryk Engelland, and Alexandre Picard. Will be a tough decision to see who will get the 5th, 6th, and 7th spots, but I think Lovejoy will be in.
Eric Tangradi did show some promise, but definitely not enough to warrant him a spot on the NHL roster.
POFA's Three Stars
1. Jordan Staal
2. Ben Lovejoy
3. Matt Cooke
Penguins 4 -- Blackhawks 1
First Period
Absolutely nothing went on in the first period. Both teams look like they are playing a preseason game. Pens failed to convert on a power play when Pittsburgh native Brandon Saad took a two minute minor for boarding at 13:45. The Pens then killed off a Matt Cooke two minute hi-sticking penalty at 16:01. At the end of the period the Pens had the lead in shots 5-3. Lovejoy has been skating well and doing so with confidence. This performance will have him as a favorite for the 5th or 6th spot on the blue-line.
Second Period
The second period started much like the first, both teams clearly in preseason form. Then at 10:32 of the period Michael Frolik beat Brent Johnson to put the Hawks up 1-0.
The Pens did have a power play at 15:34, but again failed to convert. Eric Tangradi did provide some good net presence on the power play, however. The Hawks took the lead into the third. Engelland took six hits into the third. Picard led all Pens players with 17:48 in ice time. Pens led the Hawks 13-10 in shots at the end of the second frame.
Third Period
Scott Monroe gets the go for the start of the third. Pens finally came out with some rhythm and really moved the puck to start the period. Tyler Kennedy ripped a wrist-shot that was deflected by Nick Johnson off the post, and Jordan Staal cleaned up the garbage to tie the game at one goal a piece.
Pens then got a third power play opportunity shortly after the goal, but again failed to convert.
Jordan Staal picked up his game all of a sudden and had a couple of good opportunities. Lovejoy had another strong period, breaking up potential threats around the Pens' net. The tide starting turning towards the Pens as they finally began to pick up their play.
The Pens then took the 2-1 when Matt Cooke
Tyler Kennedy put the Pens up 3-1 at 14:14 of the period when he jammed home a looks puck in front of the Hawks net.
Hawks pulled Ray Emery with a little over a minute left, then put him back in only to be embarrassed by Jordan Staal with eight seconds remaining.
Game. 4-1 Pens.
Notes
Pens outshot the Hawks 27-16. Zbynek Michalek led all Penguins players with 23:03 of ice time. Pens take on the Minnesota Wild Saturday afternoon at the CONSOL Energy Center.
Thoughts
The Pens turned it up in the third period and scored four unanswered goals. Jordan Staal was a beast in the third period and his late goal was a thing of beauty. A health Staal and Malkin and the Pens will be just fine this season. Ben Lovejoy had a great game, as did Deryk Engelland, and Alexandre Picard. Will be a tough decision to see who will get the 5th, 6th, and 7th spots, but I think Lovejoy will be in.
Eric Tangradi did show some promise, but definitely not enough to warrant him a spot on the NHL roster.
POFA's Three Stars
1. Jordan Staal
2. Ben Lovejoy
3. Matt Cooke
Pens Trim Roster to 42 Players
According the Penguins' website they have trimmed their roster to 42 players by sending 11 players down to AHL affiliate Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and two players back to their junior teams.
Players sent down to WBS include forwards, Brandon DeFazio, Brian Gibbons, Ben Street, Paul Thompson and Geoff Walker. Among the defensemen sent to WBS are Simon Despres, Alex Grant, Joey Mormina, Philip Samuelsson, and Carl Sneep. Goaltender Patrick Killeen was also sent down to the Baby Pens as well.
Tom Kuhnhackl and Dominik Uher were sent back down to their junior teams.
The only semi-big shocker is that Despres was sent down to WBS without appearing in any of the Penguins preseason games.
Players sent down to WBS include forwards, Brandon DeFazio, Brian Gibbons, Ben Street, Paul Thompson and Geoff Walker. Among the defensemen sent to WBS are Simon Despres, Alex Grant, Joey Mormina, Philip Samuelsson, and Carl Sneep. Goaltender Patrick Killeen was also sent down to the Baby Pens as well.
Tom Kuhnhackl and Dominik Uher were sent back down to their junior teams.
The only semi-big shocker is that Despres was sent down to WBS without appearing in any of the Penguins preseason games.
NHL.com Picks Pens to Win Eastern Conference
E.J. Hradek and Dan Rosen of the NHL Network have picked the Pittsburgh penguins to represent the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals. You can read the article here, and the video is posted below.
Preseason Game Day #2: Pens vs. Blackhawks
Pittsburgh Penguins (1-0-0) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (0-1-0)
7:00 P.M. CONSOL Energy Center
TV: Root Sports Pittsburgh--NHLN for those outside of the Pittsburgh TV Market
Radio: 105.9 The X--Also streaming on the Pens' website.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Welcome Back Evgeni Malkin: Pens Win 3-2
Yes, tonights game was a preseason. Yes, the score of the game and the Penguins winning means about next to nothing. However you can take away from this game is that Evgeni Malkin is ready to play this season, and he is ready to take his game back to the level that we saw him play at in the 2008-09 season. After the jump, some analysis of tonight's game.
Penguins 3--Red Wings 2
Preseason Game-day #1: Pens vs. Red Wings
Who: Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Detroit Red Wings
When: 7:00 PM
Where: CONSOL Energy Center
TV: Root Sports for you Yinzers. NHL Network for those outside of the Burgh Area
Camp Bylsma is six days old, and the Pittsburgh Penguins are set to take on the Detroit Red Wings in their first preseason game of the 2011-12 season. While these games mean nothing in the long run, they will give fans a chance to watch the Pens' roster come-to-form for the regular season.
Detroit Red Wings Roster
Forwards
11 Dan Cleary
15 Fabian Brunnstrom
17 Patrick Eaves
20 Drew Miller
21 Tomas Tatar
24 Pavel Datsyuk
26 Jiri Hudler
39 Jan Mursak
41 Chris Conner
42 Ryan Johnson
48 Corey Emmerton
96 Tomas Holmstrom
Defense
2 Brendan Smith
3 Garnet Exelby
22 Mike Commodore
23 Brad Stuart
32 Logan Pyett
55 Niklas Kronwall
Goalies
31 Joey MacDonald
35 Jimmy Howard
Pittsburgh Penguins Roster
Forwards
9 Pascal Dupuis
12 Richard park
14 Chris Kunitz
18 James Neal
23 Ryan Craig
38 Colin McDonald
45 Arron Asham
46 Joe Vitale
56 Paul Thompson
57 Brain Gibbons
67 Geoff Walker
71 Evgeni Malkin
Defense
2 Matt Niskanen
7 Paul Martin
55 Phillip Samuelsson
58 Kris Letang
59 Carl Sneep
70 Joseph Morrow
Goalies
29 Marc-Andre Fleury *
39 Brad Thiessen
* MAF will play the first and second periods, and Thiessen will go in the third.
The Pens' lines looked like this at this mornings practice:
Kunitz-Malkin-Neal
Dupuis-Park-Asham
Gibbons-Vitale-McDonald
Thompson-Craig-Walker
Friday, September 16, 2011
Three Questions for the 2011-12 Pittsburgh Penguins
Welcome back Pens Fans! It is time to forget the past and look forward to the future. Get that blown, two-game lead in last years first round of playoffs to the Tampa Bay Lightning out of your head. Forget that the Pens nearly won the division without Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin. That is the past, meaning it already happened, and we can't change it. However, there are many more questions entering this season. The Pond will look at three of the most interesting. One of them will not be about Sid's brain because it has been discussed to much at this point, and we know the answer: We don't know when he will be back, but he should be back.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Pens Release 3rd Jersey Schedule
The Penguins released the games in which they will wear their "new"third jersey that they wore in last year's winter classic. The list is below, and you can read the full article here on the Pens' website.
| Oct. 15 | Buffalo |
| Oct. 27 | NY Islanders |
| Nov. 15 | Colorado |
| Nov. 25 | Ottawa |
| Dec. 27 | Carolina |
| Jan. 6 | NY Rangers |
| Jan. 7 | New Jersey |
| Jan. 20 | Montreal |
| Feb. 11 | Winnipeg |
| Feb. 12 | Tampa Bay |
| Mar. 7 | Toronto |
| Mar. 22 | Nashville |
Monday, September 12, 2011
Penguins Evening Links: Season Ticket Delivery, Prospects Tourney Update, Sid's Training camp plans.
Just a few links for your evening reading pleasure.
Today, 14 Penguins players delivered season tickets for the fifth straight year. You can find video of Sidney Crosby delivering tickets here. There are also pictures of the deliveries on the Pens site as well.
The Pens prospects have lost the first two of three games in Oshawa, Ontario. The Pens dropped a game against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night, losing 4-0. Then on Saturday, the team lost to the prospects of the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-1, after scoring the first goal only 12 seconds into the game. The Pens prospects face-off against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday afternoon.
Also Shelly Anderson, over at the Post-Gazette writes that Sidney Crosby will be evaluated at some point this week, to determine what level of participation he can have in this years training camp.
Today, 14 Penguins players delivered season tickets for the fifth straight year. You can find video of Sidney Crosby delivering tickets here. There are also pictures of the deliveries on the Pens site as well.
The Pens prospects have lost the first two of three games in Oshawa, Ontario. The Pens dropped a game against the Ottawa Senators on Saturday night, losing 4-0. Then on Saturday, the team lost to the prospects of the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-1, after scoring the first goal only 12 seconds into the game. The Pens prospects face-off against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday afternoon.
Also Shelly Anderson, over at the Post-Gazette writes that Sidney Crosby will be evaluated at some point this week, to determine what level of participation he can have in this years training camp.
Friday, September 9, 2011
September 11th Tribute Post
Sports in the United States of America are more than just a game. They are more than just a group of individuals passing a ball or puck around a playing surface. Sports in this country act as an escape from reality. They exist as a medium for which individuals can put their hardships aside and support their favorite teams.
We are a nation fueled by rivalries, match-ups, fantasy sports, and winning. We watch sports at night, and then talk about them around the water coolers during the day. In many ways sports and real-life are integrated for many people. Many of us live and die for our sports teams, and a win on any given game-day can improve a person's quality of life at least for some period of time. Sports create a bubble for people to escape from their own lives and for a brief period of time live vicariously through others, with little consequence. Sports are an outlet where we have no control over how our favorite teams will perform, and all we can do is support them to our fullest capabilities. Sports are a time where you can meet with your buddies in a bar, or living room, and share a few beers. It provides three hours where nothing matters but goals, touchdowns, scores and stats.
However, on September 11, 2001, the United States was shaken to its core by the acts of terrorists taking American lives. Sports suddenly took a back-seat to something more real, to something that sports couldn't provide an escape to. We as a nation felt violated, and no amount of goals, home runs, or touchdowns could cure that feeling.
This post is dedicated to those who lost their lives on that infamous day.
We are a nation fueled by rivalries, match-ups, fantasy sports, and winning. We watch sports at night, and then talk about them around the water coolers during the day. In many ways sports and real-life are integrated for many people. Many of us live and die for our sports teams, and a win on any given game-day can improve a person's quality of life at least for some period of time. Sports create a bubble for people to escape from their own lives and for a brief period of time live vicariously through others, with little consequence. Sports are an outlet where we have no control over how our favorite teams will perform, and all we can do is support them to our fullest capabilities. Sports are a time where you can meet with your buddies in a bar, or living room, and share a few beers. It provides three hours where nothing matters but goals, touchdowns, scores and stats.
However, on September 11, 2001, the United States was shaken to its core by the acts of terrorists taking American lives. Sports suddenly took a back-seat to something more real, to something that sports couldn't provide an escape to. We as a nation felt violated, and no amount of goals, home runs, or touchdowns could cure that feeling.
This post is dedicated to those who lost their lives on that infamous day.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Pittsburgh Penguins 2011-12 Training Camp Schedule
The Penguins released their training camp schedule on their website today. The team reports to camp on Friday, September 16. Their first on-ice practice is Saturday, September 17. The practices, which will be held on Saturday the 17th, and Sunday the 18th at the CONSOL Energy Center will be open to the public and free of charge. These practices will run from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and fans can enter at any of the three CONSOL Energy Center gates, which open at 8:45 a.m according the Penguins website. Both practices will include an intra-squad scrimmage beginning at 10 a.m. on both days. Check back at POFA for updates including the rosters of each training camp group.
The Penguins open the season Thursday, October 6 at the Vancouver Canucks with the puck dropping at 10:00 p.m. on Versus.
The Penguins open the season Thursday, October 6 at the Vancouver Canucks with the puck dropping at 10:00 p.m. on Versus.
2011 Preseason Schedule
| Wednesday, Sept. 21 | DETROIT | 7 p.m. |
| Thursday, Sept 22. | CHICAGO | 7 p.m. |
| Saturday, Sept. 24 | MINNESOTA | 3 p.m. |
| Tuesday, Sept. 27 | vs Los Angeles^ | 8 p.m. |
| Friday, Sept. 30 | at Chicago | 8 p.m. |
| Sunday, Oct. 2 | at Detroit | 5 p.m. |
| ^ In Kansas City | ||
PITTSBURGH PENGUINS 2011 TRAINING CAMP SCHEDULE | ||
Friday, Sept. 16 | 7:30-11am | Medicals/Testing at CONSOL Energy Center |
*Saturday, Sept. 17 | 9-9:45 a.m. | Practice – group A (CONSOL Energy Center) |
10-10:45 a.m. | Scrimmage groups A & B | |
11-11:45 a.m. | Practice – group B | |
12-1:30 p.m. | Practice – group C | |
*Sunday, Sept. 18 | 9-9:45 a.m. | Practice – group B (CONSOL Energy Center) |
10-10:45 a.m. | Scrimmage groups B & C | |
11-11:45 a.m. | Practice – group C | |
12-1:30 p.m. | Practice – group A | |
Monday, Sept. 19 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Practice – Team Black (CONSOL Energy Center) |
10:30-11:30 a.m. | Practice – Team Gold | |
11:30-1:30 p.m. | Non-game group practice | |
7 p.m. | Black vs. Gold Game (Wilkes-Barre, Pa.) | |
Tuesday, Sept. 20 | 9-9:45 a.m. | Practice – group C (CONSOL Energy Center) |
10-10:45 a.m. | Scrimmage groups C & A | |
11-11:45 a.m. | Practice – group A | |
12-1:30 p.m. | Practice – group B | |
Wednesday, Sept. 21 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Practice – game group |
11:15-1:30 p.m. | Practice – non-game group | |
7 p.m. | Game vs. Detroit | |
Thursday, Sept. 22 | 11-12 p.m. | Practice – game group (CONSOL Energy Center) |
7 p.m. | Game vs. Chicago | |
Friday, Sept. 23 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Practice – group 1 (Southpointe) |
11:30-1:30 p.m. | Practice – group 2 | |
Saturday, Sept. 24 | 10-11:30 a.m. | Practice – non-game group (CONSOL Energy Center) |
3 p.m. | Game vs. Minnesota | |
Sunday, Sept. 25 | 10-11 a.m. | Practice group 1 (CONSOL Energy Center) |
11-11:20 a.m. | Scrimmage groups 1 & 2 | |
11:45-1 p.m. | Practice group 2 | |
Monday, Sept. 26 | 10-11 a.m. | Practice group 2 (CONSOL Energy Center) |
11-11:20 a.m. | Scrimmage groups 1 & 2 | |
11:45-1:00 p.m. | Practice group 1 | |
Tuesday, Sept. 27 | 10:30-11:30 a.m. | Practice – game group (CONSOL Energy Center) |
11:30-1:30 p.m. | Practice – non-game group | |
7 p.m. | Game vs. Los Angeles (in Kansas City) | |
Wednesday, Sept. 28 | DAY OFF | |
Thursday, Sept. 29 | 11-1 p.m. | Practice (CONSOL Energy Center) |
Friday, Sept. 30 | 10-11 a.m. | Practice – game group (CONSOL Energy Center) |
11:15-1 p.m. | Practice non-game group | |
7 p.m. | Game at Chicago | |
Saturday, Oct. 1 | 2-4 p.m. | Practice @ Joe Louis Arena |
Sunday, Oct. 2 | 9:30-10:30 a.m. | Practice – non-game group |
5 p.m. | Game at Detroit | |
Monday, Oct. 3 | 11 a.m. | Practice (CONSOL Energy Center) |
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