Hat trick for Sid

Tonight, the Pens played a fairly solid game and Sabourin was great in
net. The final score was 4-1. Sid had a hat trick, which was well
deserved. It was a fun game to watch and a good win. Talbot had a
good, but silent game. Sykora and Malkin both played well, too. As I
just found out, this was Sid's first hat trick at home.
Sent from my iPod

Sydor Traded

Sydor has been traded and I should have seen that coming wiwth his being a healthy scratch so often, as of late. Sydor had to waive his NTC for the trade to go through. In exchane the Pens get Phillipe Boucher, who like Sydor, is in the last year of a a 2.5 million contract. Boucher is -4 and has 3 points in 16 games this season. Hopefully, this will be just enough of a shake-up to boost the team to a more consistant defensive level. Hopefully....

Go Home Buffalo!

Tonight, the Pens started off a bit slow, came back for a great
finish. Fleury definetly redeamed himself with his performance
tonight. Gologoski played another strong came and has really come
into his own, as of late. Malkin played a solid game tonight and put
up some good numbers. Staal played a good game, as well. The powerplay
still has some room for improvement, but is coming along. Tonight, was
also the at home debut of third powder blue third jerseys. Goligoski,
Malkin, and Fedotenko each had a goal. Staal had two, including the
empty-netter. Final score 5-2.
Sent from my iPod

Oh, What a Night!

Well, it was quite a night. It seemed that the Pens were going to run
away with it, they managed to blow another big lead. It was not our
best game and it was not pretty, but we pulled out a win. Fleury let
in a couple flooky bounces, but it really seemed to knock him off his
game. Sabourin played a solid game for the third period and the OT.
He made some spectacular saves in the shoot out. It was a tough game,
and we finished strong. We can't continue to giveup these big leads.
The final score was 5-4.

Sent from my iPod

Revenge is Ever So Sweet

Last night's game against the Red Wings was perfect, just perfect. We didn't play a perfect game, but the result was no less sweet. Going into the third period it was not looking like we would pull it out, but did we ever. Jordan Staal deserves that hat trick and it was great for him to get it in that game. He has seemed a bit haunted early this season and it was great to see him breakout. Crosby, Talbot, and Malkin also had goals in the game and Fedotenko had the game-winner in ot. Staal played one of his best game and Crosby was on top of his game. It was a great night. Rob Scuderi left the game, after blocking a shot. It was a great game and it was just the boost this team needed.

2 for 1 Special

That's right two posts for the price of one...

On Thursday, the Pens defeated the Oilers 5-4, after almost blowing it in the third. We had what seemed to be an unconquerable lead, but they almost proved me wrong on that. It was a heated game and the Pens played well for the first two periods. The third period needs largely to be erased from our memories. It was horrid.

Tonight, the Pens have been strong on a fairly consistant basis through regulation. Malkin's hand seems to be both an issue and a non-issue. It has to be effecting him, but it is not obvious. Sabourin has been pretty good in net tonight. Jordan Staal is playing a strong game tonight. It was great to see him get that goal. Kennedy has played a fantastic game, as well. He has two goals tonight. Sykora scores a great back-hander in the shootout to win it for the Pens. The puck going down Sabourin's pad was just the comical end to a flukey game. Bad ice and all, it was an interesting night for the Pens.

Rumors have Begun

Well, I have been a bit under the weather recently, but I am back. It is long way to the trade deadline, but the rumors have begun. I have heard from 2 sources that the Penguins are looking to bring Shanahan to town. I believe that we would be interested in him, if the right deal came along, but I am not sure who is doing the pursuing. There is not much that is credible out there tht invovlves the Pens. More as I hear it...

Pens win in st louis

This was a great game to bring an end to a lackluster road trip.
Jordan Staal needed that goal even though it was just am empty-netter.
It was a chippy game and the pens held tough. This was the boost the
team needed. Crosby played a good game, but is not at 100%. More on
the pens later...
Sent from my iPod

Pens Down 'Canes

Well, the pens won what was a very close game, the score does not
reflect it. The final score was 4-1. Bissionette definetly held his
own in the fight early on. The goals were by Crosby, Fedatanko,
Talbot, and Malkin. Fleury played an amazing game and almost made the
empty-netter. One Staal brother down and one to go, as the Pens take
on the Rangers on Saturday.
Sent from my iPod

Pens Down Bruins in SO 2-1

The Pens played a good game and Sabourin was on fire in net. I am a doubter of his ability and I was impressed. Satan had out regulation goal and Malking had the winner in the SO. Crosby played a fantastic game. The entire team played well. It was an intense game and did not look like and early season game. I am really liking how the lines are starting to gel. It is getting good, really good.

No, I didn't run away.

Hey Pens Fans,

Sorry, for the lack of posts. I am sure many of you recall the rather bad storms that went few SW PA a few weeks ago. Well, ever since, y initernet has been blinking on and off every minute or two. The very abbreviated post that I did get up was nothing much, but all my technical issues seem to be fixed now. It took Comcast long enough.

Saturday's game was amazing. the Peens won the 4-1 decision over the Leafs. Dupuis, Satan, Crosby, and Sykora had the goals. Fleury played yet another spectacular game. Incase you didn't get the memo, it was milestone night at the Igloo. Crosby got his 200th assist. Then, he got his 300th point on his next assist. Then, he got his 100th goal. It was crazy. Malkin got his 200th point. It was crazy. It was hockey. That was one of the strongest games for the team, as a whole.

More on the Pens after tonight's game concludes. Assuming that my internet is still functioning. Let's keep our collective fingers crossed and Let's Go Pens!

OT split for Pens

Well, the pens defeated Philly in OT on Tuesday night. It was a heated
rivalry match that did not disappoint. Unfortunetly, the Caps game was
not the same. Yes it was a heated game, but the pens had a 3-0 and
lsot 4-3, after letting in four unanswered goals. Even though we won
the flyers game, the pens have failed to play 60 minutes of hockey in
either contest. This cannot continue, if we want to have another
spectacular season.
Sent from my iPod

Pens Fall in Home Opener

Well. last night's OT loss was a disappointment. Marc-Andre Fleury played a spectacular game is excused from all further coents about how bad the team played. Malkin had one of the if not the worst game of his career. He couldn't not make or nreceive a pass, if his life depended on it. Satan had a goal, which was great, but then he diappeared for an entire period and i never even noticed him. Our defense played a horrid game. We were just off.

Pens to hold Fan Fest

The Penguins are making yet another fan friendly move by holdin the Trib Total Media Faceoff Festival 2008. It will take place before the fisr four home games and will feature an outdoor screan for fans without tickets to view the game and food vendors outdoors before and during the game. 105.9 the X will be outside on the 11th and don the 16th FSN will have Savran outside. For the opener the aviary will be outside with penguins. For more info go to the Pens website.

Stockholm

Sorry for the delay. I lost my internet conneection on Friday and just got it back.

Stockholm Game One:
This was a great way to open the season. It was a tough game and I was basically pleased with the Pens performance. Our power play needs a little more time to gel. With recently losing Gonchar to injury and this season now havin Staal taking Malone's old spot in front of the net, there is a lot to adjust to.
The game was an OT win with the score 4-3. Kennedy had two goals, including the game-winner, and Malkin and Scuderi eachc had one. Fleury seemed to play a fairly good game and I was not disappointed by his performance.

Stockholm Game 2:
This game was tough. It was scoreless for quite some time. It then seemed to go downhill rather quickly. Goligoski got his first NHL goal. The team, as a whole, just had a tough game. I wish it could have been better

Genreal Thoughts:
I don't like having Ruutu on the other team.

Our defense is not as solid as it would be without the injuries and may take a bit of time to get it together.

I am really liking the looks of our new first line.

I love the rule change pertaining to comercials after icing calls. That was a long time coming. Good move NHL.

Pens Win

Final score Pens 5 Toronto 4

Pens and Toronto

Well, wednesday was a good game with the Pens winning over the Leafs. The game was a bit heated, but it was good. I don't really have anything to make note of, though I know my post is a bit late.

Currently, the Pens are tied with the Leafs late in the third at 4-4.

Also, earlier Kennedy was signed to a 2 year extension.

More later...

Monday's win and Roster Cuts

The Pens defeated the Lighting 3-2 on Monday.  Letang, Talbot and Kennedy had the Pens' goals.  It was a tight game much like the last, but the Pens won this time.

 

Also, the Pens have cut the roster to 29.  The players sent to WB/S include: Kris Beech, Ryan Stone, Adam Henrich, Aaron Boogaard, Tim Wallace, Jonathan Filewich, David Gove, Christopher Minard, Deryk Engelland, T.J. Kemp, Ben Lovejoy, Joey Mormina, and goaltender David Brown. 

 

The Pens are back on the ice tomorrow against Toronto for another preseason matchup.

 

See you at the game!

Pens Lose Preseason Game Vs Tampa 4-3 in a Shootout

Well, the Pens seemed to be off to a great start taking an early lead. We then started to fall behind. Two of the Tampa goals were a bit shaky and I think the changes in the goaltendin equipment are a factor. Gonchar took one heck of a hit and left in the first. Hopefully, it is not serious. Beech got 5 for boarding and a gae misconduct late in the game. It was a preseason game that was far more intense than the usual level of play. I did like the way Satan fit into the powerplay. That is going to be key later on. All in all it was a strong game and far more intense than I expected. It looks like it is going to be a good year...

Town Meeting

Sorry, for such the delay in my posts, but I lost power Sunday night and just got it back yesterday evening.

I attended the Town Meeting at the Arena yesterday. The stuff about the arena was all old news about the groundbreaking, for the most part. Shero is optimistic about the Penguins upcoming season.

The players that were there for the Q&A were, Crosby, Fleury, Talbot, Malkin, Whitney, and Orpik. The questions were previvously selected. Most focused on favorite playoff moments. Talbot's was Fleury fall going onto the icec in the finals. They talked about training and the upcoming season. It was all routine and fofr the most part answers that you would expect. It was still fun and worth going.

That's it for now. See everyone at the game tomorrow.

The Time has Come

Yes, the Penguins are back and the full training camp begins on 9/16. This week the Penguins made a classy move again this year by havivng the players deliver some of the season tickets. Sadly, UPS delivered mine. The team seems to be ready and in good spirits after the short summer, after our disappointing loss, which we must all put behind us. A new season brings many new possibilites. The losses of Ryan Malone, Gary Roberts, George Laraque and others will be felt, but with the guys coming up from the minors and the off-season acquisitons, the team seems to be set for another great season. Ryan Whitney's inability to begin the season following foot surgery will also be felt and as much as many complained about him and his game, many will realize the contributions he made. I will have updates throughout camp as things develop. Are we ready for some hockey? I know I am. Let's Go Pens!

It's been awhile...

Hey Pens Fans,

Sorry, my posts have been so few recently. I have had some things occur in my life that hindered it a bit, but I hope to be back to keeping up on the latest, as in the past. I want to thank eveyone, who posted comments and info on my posts to keep everyone informed. Right, now the only Penguins related story not posted in some manner is that last week Ryan Whitey had surgery to correct his "out of line" foot, as the orthodics were no longer helping. Everything went well from what I heard, but there is no official timetable for his return, as of yet. That's about it for now...

Hockey Hall of Fame

To read about this years inductions follow this link...
http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/8442222/Granato-joins-three-NHL-greats-in-U.S.-Hockey-Hall?MSNHPHCP&GT1=39002

All is Quiet

I know it seems like it has been forever since I have last posted, but all has been fairly quiet in the world of the Pens. The last major announcement was that of Therrien's 3 year deal and that almost all of the season ticketholders renewed their tickets. That is really it. As the off-season excitent dwindles post draft and UFA day, there is less to discuss in the world of the NHL. Next season is shaping up to be one of promise with the way we finished. I know that the players we lost are of a large concern to everyone, but I do think that Shero and his staff are doing a great job of filling the gaps or at least it looks like that on paper. Only time will tell how the chemstry works. This is the hardest part. The wait...

Penguins Signings

The Pens have signed Kris Beech, Pittsburgh native Bill Thomas and Ryan Stone. All three are one year deals and they are all two-way contracts. Thomas had previously been in the Coyotes organization.

Pens Sign 2 More

The Penguins have signed forward Adam Henrich and defenseman T.J. Kemp to one-year contracts.

Pens Sign Pesonen and Lovejoy

It has been cocnfirmed that the Pens have signed Janne Pesonen, who led the Finnish Elite League last season, recording 78 points (34 goals, 44 assists) in 56 games with the Oulu Karpat. The Penguins have also signed defenseman, Ben Lovejoy, to a one year entry level contract. Lovejoy spent last season with the Wilkes Barre-Scranton Penguins.

Pens Sign Matt Cooke

The Pens have signed Matt Cooke to a 2 year deal.

Pens Sign Fedotenko, Satan, and Fleury

The Pens have signed Ruslan Fedotenko and Miroslav Satan to one year deals worth 2.25 and 3.5 million, respectively.

The Pens have re-signed Marc-Andre Fleury to a 7 year deal worth 35 millon.

Ruutu gone

Jarkko Ruutu has signed with the Sens.

Hossa, Malkin, Orpik

Hossa is a Red Wing
The Malkin deal I reported yesterday has been anounced
Orpik resigns with the pens with a 6 year contract

UFA Day 1 Recap and Rumors

Malone and Roberts have signed with Tampa.

Eaton, Dupuis and Goddard sign with Pens.

Conklin is a Red Wing.

Hall signs with Tamps

Hossa slated to announce decision tomorrow.

Malkin signs 5 year extension to be announced later in week.

Jagr in talks with Pens? Yeah, that is what is being said. The suposed talks are said to be "on hold" until after the Hossa decision. I cannot fathom Jagr coming back to the burgh, but this is from more sources than I want to admit. My biggest fear is that it could actually happen. If it does, this is like my worst nightmare coming true...

Malkin

It is believed that PEns have signed Malkin to a 5 year contract extension worth 8.7 annually after this season. Announcment later in the week..

Pens Sign Dupuis and Eaton and Godard

The Penguins have resigned Mark Eaton and Pascal Dupuis and have signeed Eric Godard.

Eaton - 2 years 2 mil
Dupuis - 3 years 4.2 mil
Godard - 3 years

Pens lost Hall and Conklin to Tampa and Detroit, respectively

Pens Trade UFA Rights of Malone and Roberts

The Pens have traded the UFA rights for Malone and Roberts to Tampa for a 3rd round pick. IF Malone signs with Tampa it becomes a 4th round pick.

An Update on All Things Peguins

The Penguins have made qualifying offers to the followin RFAs: Mark Ardelan, Paul Bissonnette, Tim Brent, Patrick Ehelechner, Daniel Fernholm, Jonathan Filewich, and Ryan Stone.

Rumors:
In addition to the Pens, Ottawa and Toronto have interest in Gary Roberts.

Brian Campbell is said to be narrowing his list of possible teams and the Peguins are still very much in this.

Marian Hossa will likely sign with a team north of the border, but he has not completely declined returning to the Pens.

Ryan Malone has half of the NHL interested in him from what I am hearing. I cannot even begin to seperate the real contenders from the pure fiction. There are too many, but I have a feeling that Pittsburgh' s own might be moving on.

Marcus Naslund - Now, there is a name from the Pens past. Many of you may not remember his time with the Penguins in the latter part of the mid 90s. I do and I have the autograph to prove it. He has really come into his own as a player since he left here many years ago. The Pens are said to be one of his top teams and he is said to be on our shopping list, as well.

Brooks Orpik is not entirely against returning to the Pens and management is not against it either, but what is known is that there is some sorrt of a rift and I do not think his return is a first choice for either side.

Ruutu is talking with a few other teams, most notably Edmonton. It is hard to tell how this will play out, but the Penguins have not been ruled out.

I think that is about it for now...

Quick Rumors

Well, the off season always leads to rumors in a plentiful number, particularly with the draft this weekend. There has been a large amount of buzz about the Penguins. Many teams have interest in many of our previvously underrated players, such as Ryan Malone, Brooks Orpik, Pascal Dupuis, and others. There are so many rumors about them that it is nearly impossible to seperate legitimate possibilities from pure fiction. As for the Malkin rumors, many are shocked that the Penguins would consider trading him. I am not shocked. He is the type of player that is very oveable and will likely play for many teams before his NHL career ends. I am not saying that he will be definetly moved this off season, but it has good possibility. I have heard that both the Kings and the Panthers have interest. I also heard the Capitals do, but I doubt the Penguins would want to give Ovechkin Malkin, as a teammate. We do not want to create a tandom like that, unless it is on our team. If Malkin is to be moved, I think that the draft is the most likely time and place. I will have complete coverage of the draft and the deals after it ends. I will be away this weekend, but will be on top of the draft and all the trades and upon my return, I will give a full post on all the goings-on.

Fleury, Malkin, Malone, Orpik

The Pens have filed for salary arbitration with Fleury.

They are also working on a contract with Malkin, which may not be going as smoothly as expected.

Malone is looking hard at if he wants to remain in Pittsburgh. The end of the season made us think he was moving on and that is still a good possibility.

Orpik will likely not be a Penguin next season. There is a bit of a rift between him and management. Both sides seem to be ready to part.

Quick Rumors

Ok, so now that the sting of the loss is beginning to lessen a bit, it is time for off-season rumors.

Ryan Malone - I love him and hope he is a Penguin next season. He is currently a very sought after player. There are few teams that would not want him. I think is has been underestimated in Pittsburgh until recently. I hope a deal cana be made to keep him here, but Columbus is very interested in him and I have also heard that a south east team is also interested, as well.

Pascal Dupuis - The best bonus the Pens have gotten on a trade. As a part of the Hossa deal, his arrival was overshadowed. I think that he will likely be a Penguin next season.

thinkuvasn4me sent me an im asking about the Malkin rumors. I do not think that there is any truth to them on the Penguins end. We are by no means hsoppinig him, but I would think that Shero would entertain serious offers. I do not think that Malkin will be leaving Pittsburgh in the near future. The number 2 regular season scorer is not easily traded.

That is it for now. I am heading to Maui for some relaxation. If anything major breaks, I will do my best to post it. If any one hears anything, please feel free to post it as a comment to this blog, in my absence, to keep each other informed.

It came down to the final seconds...

Pens Fans, I do not know if I have the words right now. It was a tough game and a tough series. We came within seconds and inches of tieing. It was the tougest drive home from the game that I have ever experienced. The fans showed a lot of class soluting the Pens after the game and by showing respect for the Wings. The Pens deserve so much credit for what they did this season. They are all truly outstanding. The season draws to a close on a sad note, but we have so much to be proud of. Tonight, is a night of sad reflection. To everyone in E 29, see you next season it has been a great ride. To the players, coaches, trainers, front office, and everyone else in the Penguins organization, thank you for a great season. You all have the heart and the time will come...

Game 5: Holy Overtime!

Last night's Pens' game, that spilled into this morning, was something that will not be soon forgotten here in Pittsburgh. The Pens came out with a bang and took the early lead. Through the first two periods, the Penguins were on their "A-game." In the first period, Marian Hossa opened up the scoring and was assisted by Sidney Crosby and Pascal Dupuis. Adam Hall added a goal to make it 2-0 to end the period. The Wings added a goal in the second to make it 2-1. In the third period, the Pens seemed to lose all momentum and began falling into a downward spiral to the end of their season. Late in the third, the Pens began to look like they had a little left in them and pulled Fleury close the the minute mark. Max Talbot can on as the extra attacker and scored to tie the game and was assisted by Marian Hossa and Sidney Crosby to force the OT. Detroit continued to dominate for the first and second OTs. In the third OT, the Pens young players skated circles around their elder foes. Petr Sykora called the shot and put it in past Osgood to win the game. He was assisted by Evgeni Malkin and Sergei Gonchar, who left the game injured in the third period to take his first shift since on that goal. Ryan Malone also battle through injury. He took a shot to the face and broke his nose for the second time this series and his face was still bleeding a few OTs later. Marc-Andre Fleury was the undisputed hero of the game stoppingg 55 of 58 shots on the night. He played amazinly and has truly come into his own. Ryan Whihtney also had a strong game loging over 50 minutes of ice time, which is more than Crosby or any save Fleury had on the team. Onto game 6, we made it this far and it is not over yet. Let's Go Pens! I will see everyone at the game.

Stanley Cup Finals Game 4: Wings 2 Pens 1

Well, this was a hard night for the Penguins. This was the first home loss since February 24th. This game was frustrating to watch, as a Pens' Fan, though I am sure the Wing's Fans loved at least the final two periods. The Penguins were deflated at the end of this game, as a group. One positive was in the post game press conferences, hope could still be heard in Sidney Crosby's voice. He seemed to get mad, when one of the questions hinted that it was all over. One thing that the Pens need to do more of is shoot the puck. Bob Grove and Phil Bourque pointed this out on the radio after the game. I know that it was likely apparent to all, who saw it, but that was all that I saw that we could change. We plaayed hard. We got beat. With the exception of our lackluster 5 on 3, we played a fairly solid game. The Red Wings just were better. This game coculd have gone either way and, iff we shot the puck more and did not miss so many opportunites, the game likely would have been ours. Malkin has rececntly hit a dry spell of fepic proportions. The crowd was behind him tonight and "Geno" chants were fairly common. You could see the utter frustration on his face. Monday is going to be one tough game going back to Detroit down 3-1. If any team can come back and hold off the Wings, it is the Penguins. As Crosby said after the game, the team cannot look at it as having to commeback and win three games in a row. They have to look at it as winning on Monday and after Monday focus on the next goal. It is a tough road ahead and it is not over, by a long shot. I know it is hard to find optimism,, right now. I am having that problem and I am the perpetual Penguin cheerleader to a nauseating extent, as many of you know. Don't stop believing. Don't let this get you down Pens Fans. This team is not a one time thing. We are trying to build a winning team that is lasting and this glimmer of greatness is the first product of that. We have the makings of a dynasty in Pittsburgh and our time will come...

Stanley Cup Finals Game 3

Well, mae three was the turning point the Pens needed. Yesterday's win brought the Pens back into the series. For us to have a chance in Detroit is to win the game on Saturday. The Pens really came out with a fire light under them and really played their game. The Red Wings played a tough game, but they seemed to lose a little steam later in the game. Brooks Orpik played a good game and those few moments where he went crazy and made around 6 hits in under a minute was amazing. Crosby played a fantastic game. I was skeptical of the return of Sydor, but he played a good game and I think he and Whitney played better as a Defensive pair than Whitney and Letang made. I do think Letang is a good defenseman, who was struggling a abit recently. Well, on to game four...

Games One and Two Recap

Sorry for the delay in my post, but Memorial Day weekend is like
that. The Pens have not been doing well in the last two games. They
did improve for the second game. The first game began with a bad omen
with Fleury falling onto the ice to start the game. The return of
Roberts was another bright spot. I do not want to dwell on the bad in
those games and there was very little good. One thing that is certain
is that the Pens news to dictate the play and start playing their game
instead of Detroit's.
Sent from my iPod

Pens Win Eastern Conference

Well, game five went quite well for the Pens with them winning 6-0.
Malone had two goals and Hossa, Malkin, Staal, and Dupuis each had
one. It was a fun game to watch. After the game, the Pens were awarded
the Prince of Wales Trophy. Now, we wait for the results of the series
in the west.
Sent from my iPod

Conference Finals Game 4: Flyers 4 Pens 2

Well, I guess that means I will see you all at game five on Sunday. The Pens were getting beat in the first period. It was not pretty to watch. It was ugly. Jordan Staal had 2 third period goals to bring the Pens within one and then the Flyers added the empty-netter to make it 4-2. The game took a very nasty turn at the end. Sunday's game is going to be nasty. At least, the Pens will be at home with the crowd behind them.

Game 4: Preveiw

Tonight is game 4 of the series against the Flyers. The Pens enter the game up 3-0 and tonigiht could be the possible sweep. It will not be an easy game by any means. The Flyers will not go down without a fight, especially at home. Tonight will be a battle with these two teams and such animosity between them, it could get ugly. The Flyers are fightinig to stay alive and everyone looked at them as a bit of a Cinderella team this year. The Pens just want to win and finish the series ASAP without injury. Fleury has been playing a very solid game in this series keeping the Flyers to one or two goals per game. The defense has a lot to do with that, as well. They have really stepped it up. Marian Hossa has realy come alive in this series as the star he is. He and Crosby are fifnally working together getting the puck to the net and that glorious vision of an unbeattable line, that we all had at the deadline, is now becomning reality. This is going to be a tough game. Let's Go Pens!

Conference Finals Game 3: Pens 4 Flyers 1

Well, game three was another victory for the Pens, who seem unstopabble at this point. Ryan Whitney and Ryan Malone each had goals and Marian Hossa had a pair of goals. Fleury played a great gae in net. Crosby played a fantastic game, as did Malkin. It was an all around good effort by the team. Get ready for game 4 tomorrow.

Conference Finals Game Two: Pens 4 Flyers 2

Well, this game was more physical than the last, but the Pens still came out with the win. Crosby, Hossa, Talbot and Staal had the Pens' goals. The disallowed goal looked to be over the line after I saw the replay, when I got home, but the word from Toronto was that it was unclear if the entire puck crossed the line. You canot tell for sure, but it had to have been. It turns out that the goal was not needed to beat the Flyers. Tyler Kennedy suprised everyone in Mellon Arena by dropping the gloves and going a few rounds with Upshall. The next game will be a tough one. It will be hard to cocme out with a win in Philly. We saw what the crowd does for us in this rivalry and not it is the Flyers turn...

Conference Finals Game One: Pens 4 Flyers 2

We won! Yes Pens Fans, we won the game. It was a very physical game and the Penguins outplayed the Flyers hands down. Fleury was on tonight and played a wonderful game. Malkin had two goals and played a very physical game. At the end, when he was looking at his hand, it was his broken chain and cross not an injury. Crosby's goal was a great redirect off the heel of his stick. The Pens were flying. The Flyers seemed to run out of gas in the third and fell short of anything close to a comeback. I also want to coment that the officiating seemed to be lacking tonight. There were many calls missed throughout the game on both sides. I am specifically referencing a few high sticks and nummerous others. Game 2 is Sunday. Let's Go Pens!

Bring on the Flyers

This is going to be one interesting series. The Flyers are a pretty hot team, right now. Then, you factor in the rivalry between the Pens and Flyers, which will likely elevate both teams, and it is going to get interesting. Biron has been solid in goal and he is not at revered as Lundqvist, but he is someone to pay attention to. Biron has a lot to prove and Fleury has been constantly been proving himself. This is going to be a tough series. Max Talbot is expected to be able to play in the series, though it is uncertain when. My guess would be game one, but that is only a guess on a hunch. Having home ice is going to be a key factor in this series. The Pens need to have the four at home. I hope it doesn't go that long, but this is one series where being at home is key. Let's Go Pens!!!!!

Game 5: How Sweet It Is

Well, the Pens won it in the OT on a goal by Hossa, his second of the game to advance to the conference finals. Malkin had the Pens other goal in the 3-2 win. The Pens had 40 shots on net and held Jagr to no shots. It was a great game and with the exception of a about a 3 or 4 minute stretch the Pens definetly outplayed the Rangers. Bring on the Flyers!!!!!!!!

Game 4

Sorry for such a delay on the post. Game 4 was just an odd night. Crosby was not himself. The whole team was out of it. Sid tried to carry the team, but he can't do it alone and he wasn't even playing like himself. Malkin was disasterous throughout the game. this was most obvious with that bad penelty shot attempt. I mean what was he thinking? Hossa still can't get the puck in the net. Eventually, it will bounce his way, but it was easy to tell that it is getting to him. The whole team was out of sorts. It was bad. I don't know what happened to the Pens, but if this is what would happen, we needed to get the loss over with. We were out played. It is as simple at that. Hopefully, the Pens will get back to their winning ways on sunday and end this series. Let's Go Pens!

Game 4 Tonight

Hey Pens Fans,

Well, tonight the Pens will attempt to finish off the Rangers. If we sweep, that would just be insane, but the Rangers have enough fight in them that I am not ruling them out yet. I do not think they have a chance in hell of coming back, but they could win one game just to prolong the series. The Pens need to play a tough game and Fleury needs to continue to play solid in net. Max Talbot's broken foot is a bit of a blow to the Pens. I know that he had been wearing an aircast. I am not sure if this is the type of break that you can play on or not. Hopefully, he is only out for a short time. This may be what puts Gary Roberts back into the lineup and with the Rangers fighting for the lives tonight, Scary Gary is exactly what we need. More later...Let's Go Pens!

Talbot Hurt

Talbot broke his foot.

NYR's Avery to Miss Remainder of Playoffs

Avery lacerated his spleen and will miss the remainder of the playoffs.

Game 3: Pens Down Rangers

The final score was 5-3, but that in no way tells the whole story of this game. Early on, the Pens were out for the win and were playing like no other. Marion Hossa got the Pens on the board early with a goal from Dupuis and Crosby. The Rangers came back to tie it with Straka's goal . Then to close out the period, the Pens netted two more to make it 3-1 with goals by Laraque (Maklin, Sykora) and Malkin (Gonchar, Hossa). In the second the Rangers scored twice to tie the game at 3-3 on Jagr's goal. The Pens then came back to make it 4-3 with Malkin's goal from Crosby and Gonchar. In the third period, Ryan Malon added the Pens' fifth goal from Letang and Sykora. Fleury played a good game in net stopping 23 off 26 shots. The Pens only had 11 shots on goal on the night. Game four is Thursday...

Bad Baby Pens

Click on this link for details... http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/8086612?MSNHPHMA

Pens Win Game 2 Against Rangers

Hey Pens Fans,
The Pens seemed to have a bit of a rough start in the game, but so did the Rangers. This game quickly became a battle of the goalies and Marc Andre Fleury won. MAF played a great game. He was more than solid. He was magnificant. It was a great game, a bit of a nail-biter, but a great game. Hal Gill really gave it to Jagr on that one hit. That was a great moment and number 68 was a bit less cocky after that. Jordan Staal played a great game. As for his brother Marc, he played the type of game you would expect from a Ranger in his position. I thought he played a bit dirty, to be perfectly honest. He actually made me more frustrated than Avery did and that is saying something. Sid and Geno also had strong games. Ruutu was flying. Ryan Whitney was solid on D. Gonchar played a pretty good game. He just has to work at keeping Shanahan out of Fleury's way. Shanny is a big man to move, but it needs to happen. On to MSG for game 3...

Pens comeback to win game one against Rangers

The final score was 5-4. The Pens were down 3-0 early on and came back
for the win. The fans did an awesome job with the "whiteout" and the
crowd definetly filled the role of the seventh man. Fleury played a
solid game. Crosby was the undisputed star tonight and played a
magnificent game. Jagr was held to no shots tonight. Game 2 on Sunday
is going to get very interesting. Let's Go Pens!
Sent from my iPod

Pens Sweep Sens

Well, last night's gamae brought an end to the series. This Penguins sweep is the first since the Pens won the cup in '92. The Pens played a solid game and the Senators shot themselves in the foot with penelties. Malkin and Ruutu each had goals and Crosby added the empty-netter. Hossa played a great game. He was a cannon of shots. Fleury was solid in the net. It was a great game. The Pens need to take this opportunity to get a rest, heal their wounds, and keep their game together. These few extra days before the next series can be a blessing or a curse. I just hope it is not the latter.

Pens Defeat Senators; Lead Series 3-0

Well, after going down 1-0, the Pens came back with 4 unanswered goals to grab the win. It was a great game. The Sens hurt themselves with all the penelties they took. They played sloppily and let emotion et the best of them. The Pens played a strong game. Fleury was stellar in net. Game 4 is Wednesday. The question is: can we sweep?

Pens win game two

Last night the Pens defeated the Sens in game two of the series. The
final score was 5-2. The series continues Monday in Ottawa.
Sent from my iPod

Game 1: Pens Win 4-0

Well, it is a first round rematch from last year. The Pens came out victorious 4-0. Scary Gary was backk and netted 2 goals and added to the Physical presence. Sykora and Malkin had the other two goals. Fleury earned the shut out by playing and amazing game. Ryan Whitney dropped the gloves with Redden and took that next step in physicality that we all knew he could. Crosby had a strong game. He rung one off the post and played a scrappy physical game. Game 2 is friday

Pens Lose Regular Season Finale to Flyers; Will Face Ottawa in 1st Round

Well, the regular season came to an anti-climatic end. Yesterday afternoon, the Pens fell to the Flyers 2-0. Sidney Crosby did not play. It was also the much anticipated return of Gary Roberts. Roberts seemed to play fairly well. It took a little to get him going, but, for missing as muchc time as he did, he played well. Gary will be a major asset in the playoffs. Malkin entered the game 6 points behind Ovechkin for the scoring title and the Pens never scored. The Pens played it safe. They did not want the heated rivalry to cost them. No injuries means a better shot in the playoffs. I will say that Fleury played a solid game. It is time for playoff hockey...

Pens Down Flyers; Clinch Division

Last night, the Pens downed the Flyers 4-2 in their final home game of the season. Gonchar and Malkin each had goals and Crosby had 2. Fleury was in net and played a stellar game. The game was very physical from the start. George Laraque going heavy weight on knocking a helmet 75 feet down the ice was a highlight in my mind. The crowd was electric. Philly was out for blood and they went for it. It was a nasty game and I can only imagine what it will escalate to in Philly on Sunday. I typically don't call out the refs, but Kerry Fraser makes me want to hit something. I have absolutley no problem wit refs being lax or overly precise, but pick one and stick with it for the whole game and act the same way towards both teams. He called questionable penelties on both sides and then let obvious ones go. There was no consistancy in the officiating.

Pens fall to Rangers

Well, last night was a bit disappointing. The 2-1 OT loss is not what we were counting on. Fleury played a solid game. Talbot had the Pens' goal. The Pens seemed to struggle, at points, but it was no worse the the Rangers. Both teams seemed to be having a bit of an off night. Sergei Gonchar's blatant hold early the in the OT was what sealed te Pens' fate. Playing 4-3 on the penelty kill in OT is no teams's strength. I understand that Gonchar felt the need to stop him, but personally next time Sergei needs to let them take a chance at Fleury. The result could be no worse.

Pens down Rangers and clinch home ice for 1st round

Hey Pens Fans,
This afternoon, the Pens downed the Rangers 3-1. The team also clinched home ice for the first round. If we defeat the Rangers tomorrow in NY, we will clinch the division. Today, Fleury was in goal and played a solid game. The game turned nasty early, as usual whenn playing the Rangers. Jagr was also booed. Hossa and Malkini had the Pens' first two goals to ake it 2-1 late in the third, when Talbot added the third goal to make it 3-1. Malkin got 8 stiches, but returned for the third period. He is not expected to miss any time. Crosby and Hossa finally played and entire game together.

Crosby returns as pens top Isles

Sorry for the delay in the post, but I was in a car accident and have
been consumed with that. I am currently waiting to hear if my car is
totaled (which it probably is) or not.
Now the game:
Though it was Crosby's return, it was Ruutu's night. He had two
assists and and unassisted shorthanded goal. Hossa was injured with an
upper body injury during the game. Eventually, he and Sid will play an
entire game together. Fleury played a solid game in goal. Tomorrow,
the Pens take on the Rangers at the Mellon Arena.
Sent from my iPod

Pens down Devils and Clinch Playoff Berth

Tonight, the Pens defeated the Devils 2-0. Fleury recorded the shutout. Malone had the Pens first goal and Hossa added the emty-netter. It was a good game by the Pens and it was a complete turn-around from yesterday's loss. The Pens were on a roll tonight.

Pens Fall to Islanders

Hey Pens' Fans,

Tonight, the Pens fell on Long Island 4-1. Petr Sykora had the lone Penguin goal. Ty Conklin was in net. The Isles had been knocked out of playoff contention, but that did not seem to phase their play against the Pens. In the intermission, Vs interveiwed Ryan Malone and he seemed disgusted with the team's play, overall. The Pens need to put it behind them and prepare for tomorrow's game on the road in New Jersey.

Pens on Long Island

Hey Pens Fans,

Tonight, the Pens will not have Sidney Crosby in the lineup against the Islanders. Dupuis will also miss the game, as he has traveled to Atlanta to be by his wife's side for the birth of their child. Scuderi will return to the lineup tonight. The Pens are set to dress seven defenseman. More after the game...

Pens Bury Devils

The Pens managed to slaughter the Devils 7-1. Malone and Malkin each
had two goals and Rutuu, Dupuis, and Sykora each had one. Fleury
played a solid game in net. It is not often that a team manages to get
Brodeur pulled from a game, but the Pens seem to have a knack for it.
Happy Easter.
Sent from my iPod

My promised post on the lightning game

Hey Pens Fans,
This game turned into Jarkko Ruutu night. First, he scores a goal and takes a stick to the face in the same move and later he loses his stick and busts out the soccer moves to et the puck down the ice and make a perfect pass to Talbot. It was amazing. In addition to Ruutu, 3 other Pens had goals: Malkin, Staal, and Sykora. Fleury played a solid game in net. Hopefully, the tea can ride this momentum into tomorrow's game against the Devils.

PENS WIN

LAST NIGHT THE PENS DEFEATED THE LIGHTNING.  I WILL POST MY THOUGHTS ON THE GAME LATER.  SORRY FOR THE DELAY...

Pens lost big to Rangers

Last night's game was interesting. It was also bad. That was probably
the Pens' worst road performance of the season. They really need to
step it up and put it behind them.
Sent from my iPod

Pens down flyers 7-1

Hey pens fans,
It was a high scoring game today. Malkin and Sykora each had two
goals. Kennedy, Hossa, and Gill each had goals, as well. It was a
heated game and the fact that there was not more carnage was a miracle
into itself. Fleury was in net for the pens and played a fairly solid
game. Also, I want to mention that this is my first attempt posting
via email on my new iPod.

Sent from my iPod

Crosby to miss more games with ankle injury flare up

Bad Penguin

Hey Pens Fans,
Georges Laraque received a three game suspension stemming from the incident at the Sabres game, where he received a 5 minute major for elbowing and a game misconduct.

Pens Defeat Sabres

Hey Pens Fans,
Sorry, this post has taken so long, but it has been a rough 24 hours. Stone, windsheild, insurance, I am sure you know the drill. Well, now on to hockey.

The Final score was 7-3. Kennedy, Taffe, Gonchar, Sykora, Malkin, Minard (1st nhl goal), and Letang had the Pens' goals. Yes, seven goals from seven players. Conklin was in net and played a solid game. Crosby sat out the game to rest his ankle for the Philly game.

George Laraque received a game misconduct and 5 minutes for elbowing on a nasty hit. I love Laraque, but I think that was the right call and he deserved the misconduct. I do not think it deserves a suspension, but I would not be suprised if the league uses this to set the tone for the playoffs...

Pens Down Caps 4-2

Hey Pens Fans,
This matchup had all the makings of a playoff game. This was a tight game. Petr Sykora had the Pens' first goal and Crosby had the second. The game was tied at 2 going late into the third, when the Caps scored in their own net. Crosby was credited with the goal, having been the last Pen to touch the puck. Malkin made a selfless play by passing the puck to Jordan Staal for the empty-netter. This was a tough game and these two teams really went at it. It was a tough win, but a great win for the Pens. The look on Crosby's face, when the caps put it in their own net, was priceless.

Pens Fall to Panthers

Hey Pens Fans,
Tonight, the Pens were in Florida taking on the Panthers. The Pens lost 5-2. It was a tough night for the Pens. Malone and Letang had the Pens two goals. Fleury started the game ini net and was later relieved by Conklin. It was a hard night for the Pens. They really need to just put this one behind them and move on. The next game is Sunday and the Pens will be in Wahington taking on Ovechkin and the Capitals.

Pens Defeat Lightning 2-0

Hey Pens Fans,
The return of Sidney Crosby has been much anticipated and it went well. Also, Ryan Whitney was back in the lineup tonight, as well. Talbot had the Pens' first goal which came late in the third to make it 1-0. Dupuis and Crosby had the assists. At the end of the game, Malkin netted an empty-netter from Talbot to make it 2-0. Fleury was in goal stopping all 35 shots for the shutout. Jordan Staal left the game in the first period. It is reported that he has bruised ribs and there is no word on how much time he may miss.

Crosby and Whitney Set to Return Tonight

Hey Pens Fans,
Sidney Crosby and Ryan Whitney will return to the lineup tonight and Connor James and Alex Goligoski have been sent back to W-B/S.

Pens Defeat Thrashers

Hey Pens Fans,
This afternoon, the Pens defeated the Thrashers 3-2 in a shootout. The Pens opened the game on fire scoring two goals in two minutes. The goals were by Malone and Talbot. The Thrashers cacme back to tie it up. In the shootout, the Pens Kris Letang had the only goal for the win. Fleury was in goal and played a solid game. He also made a good save on Christensen in the shootout.

Pens Fall to Senators

Hey Pens Fans,
Well, this afternoon the Pens fell to the Senators 5-4. Malone had 2 goals and Sykora and Malkin each had one. This game turned nasty fast. Gonchar was getting thrown around like a rag doll. Both teams seemed to be out for blood. It was a fun game to watch and it is always a heartbreaker, when you score 4 goals and still lose. The Pens were flying, though. Hopefully, they can put the losing part behind them and ride the momentum they had going today into tomorrow's game versus the Thrashers. Also, a reminder to fans attending the game to bring your Terrible Towels to honor Myron Cope.

Pens Recall James and Goligoski

Hey Pens Fans,
The Penguins have recalled forward Connor James and defenseman Alex Goligoski from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton on an emergency basis. Hopefully, the injuries stop and we can start to give W-B/S their team back.

Pens Down and Out in Boston and Hossa Injured

Hey Pens Fans,
This was a bad night for our Pens. We lost 5-1 to the Bruins. Our only goal was by Dupuis. Hossa left the game with a sprained knee and is now expected to miss a week or two. This game was a disaster and the Pens could not seem to get it together. Conklin started in nent and Fleury was brought in to relieve him. The whold game was bad. We showed a glimmer of hope in near the end, but it is best we just put it behind us and move on.

More Injuries

Hey Pens Fans,
The injury bug has bitten again. Scuderi's finger "exploded" and he had to have surgery to repair it. It is listed as a fracture. He will miss a few weeks with this injury. Adam Hall underwent surgery for a sports hernia and will also miss a few weeks with his injury.

Pens Defeat Islanders

Hey Pens Fans,
Tonight, the Pens defeated the Isles 4-2. Malkin, Tafe, Staal, and James had the Pens goals. Conklin was in net and played a wonderful game. James and Smith made it to the game from W-B/S after the game began, but contirbuted big, when they made it to the ice. Conklin was the #1 star on Long Island tonight and Malkin was #2 and James #3.

Deadline Recap

Hey Pens Fans,
Well, it has been a long and interesting day. The Pens made some good moves that will better our team. Hal Gill for the 2 picks is a great addition. Hossa and Dupuis will fit in well. We gave up some good players in return. Personally, I think that Armstrong will be missed the most. Though, Christensen is a good player and Esposito will likely turn into a decent player down the road. I do think that the first round pick was a bit much to give up, but I am not Ray Shero and it made sense to him. The Pens play tonight and it is unlikely that our newest acquisitions will be there. I am certain they will not be.

Shero Press Conferance at 4:30

Hey Pens Fans,
Shero will hold a Press Conferance at 4:30

Hossa

Hey Pens Fans,
Hossa and Dupuis to the Pens ... for esposito, christensen and armstrong, and 1st round pick in 2009

Deadline Day Rumors Continue

Hey Pens Fans,
Hal Gill to Pit.... for 2nd and 5th round picks done deal

Deadline Day Rumors Continue

Hey Pens Fans,
If Hossa falls through, which I have not heard anything to that effect, Havlatt to the Pens is likely...

Hossa

Hey Pens Fans,
Hossa is happening...but assistant gm Fletcher denies it, but everyone else is saying it is happening...

Rumor - Hossa

Hey Pens Fans,
Pens are a finalist for Hossa.....

Pens Silent

Hey Pens Fans,
The Pens are silent amid a ton of deals going down in the last few minutes...
Rumors still remain the same as I last reported...
More later...

Rumor Time

Hey Pens Fans,
All has been fairly quiet in the world of the Pens, but in the last hour the rumors shave begun swirling. Hal Gill is a name that hs been recently linked to the Pens. The Pens are also rumored to be interested in Havlat and Satan. Also, the Pens are rumored to be entering the Hossa sweepstakes. Also, I am hearing that Jordan Staal may be involved in a deal, as well as Ruutu. More as it continues to unfold. I will be awake for the duration...

Rumors-a-plenty

Hey Pens Fans,
With the trade deadline tomorrow, there are many rumors out there. Some border on sheer insanity and others are likely. I would look for the Pens to do something. They will not stay silent and not make a move. Two names that seem to be likely are Jay Mckee and Robert Lang. Jay McKee makes tons of sense and would fit into our team. As for Robert Lang, I do not see this happening, but I could be wrong. I don't see why we would want him back. Ollie Jokinen seems like a very unlikely possibility. I don't see the Pens going after him, unless a great deal falls into their lap and he is drawing so much interest that I do not see that happening. Hossa will not become a Penguin and from what I am hearing the Pens were never involved in those talks. A name that we have been shopping is Ruutu. He is "likely" to be part of a "pending deal" that is "likely" to occur. So, Pens fans don't rush out and buy your Rutuu jerseys until after the deadline tomorrow to make sure that he is still a Penguin. More later...

Pens Drop 2 this Weekend and Trade Deadline Update

Hey Pens Fans,

On Saturday, the Pens fell to the Senators 4-3 in OT. It was a bit of a heartbreaker with the loss coming in the last seconds. Overall, the team played a good game and should be pleased with their play.

Sunday was not quite as good. The Zamboni blwoing a transmission and leaking red fluid all over center ice after the pregame skate should have been an omen of the game to come. It looked like a ritual sacrifice of cattle at center ice. The first period looked, as though the blood bath would continue. The Pens played a horrible first period and had 18 miutes in penelties. They came back and played a solid couple of periods to end in a 1-1 tie on Christensen's goal. They held tough in the OT for the shootout. The shootout was not our most stellar and Conklin really drorpped the ball on this one. He was obviously mad at himself, as he stormed off the ice at the end. Final 2-1 Sharks.

Trade Deadline
Well, it is fast approaching and I will be posting all the time as my trade deadline watch has begun. This means that tonight is the last that I will sleep until after the deadline on Tuesday to provide you with round the clock coverage. Don't look for the Pens to land a big name. We are not going to give up a ton for a name and jeoporadize the future. More later.....

Pens Defeat Habs

Hey Pens Fans,
The Pens downed the Canadiens 5-4. Whitney, Ruutu, Malone, Malkin, and Gonchar each had goals. It was back and forth for awhile, but the Pens pulled it out in the end. Not much else to report on the game. Working on some rumors. More, if something breaks.... it is getting interesting....

Rumor

Hey Pens Fans,

Jay McKee is a name that is heavily linked to the Penguins, right now. More as I hear it...

Pens Down Panthers

Hey Pens Fans,
The Pens defeated the Panthers 3-2. Malone had 2 goals. Malkin now leads the NHL in scoring. Conklin was in net and played a strong game. The Pens player horridly through the first 2 periods and came back to win it with 3 third period goals. Sorry, for the short post, but I really have to go. Trade rumor update coming soon....

Pens Down Sabres 4-1

Hey Pens Fans,
The Pens defeated the Sabres in Buffalo 4-1. Ty Conklin was in goal stopping 36 of 37 shots on the net. The games was scoreless after the first period. In the second, Rutuu got one from Malone and Scuderi to put the Pens on the board. Then, Sykora added another from Malkin and Gonchar to make it 2-0. Ther period ended 2-1 Pens. In the third, Malkin got a goal from Talbot and Sykora to make it 3-1. Colby Armstrong added an empty-netter from Malone to make it 4-1 for the final. The Pens played a good game tonight. It was a solid effort and they deserved the win. The Pens return home to face the Panthers on Tuesday.

Outlook as the Deadline Approaches

Hey pens fans,

The last two games are a bit of a black cloud over the team going into tomorrow's game in Buffalo. Their play previvous to that had been very good, especially when considering all the injuries we have sustained. With the trade deadline approaching, the question is what Ray Shero will do, if anything, to fill these roles?

When it comes to Fleury's injury, it looked like it wowld be the death of our promising season. Sabourin was faltering and we were basically done for. Then, we put Ty Conklin in the net and his play was great. The team pulled together and we kept going on. I do not see the Pens makinig any sort of a move involving goaltending, but the question on everyone's mind is concerning Fleury's return. What will they do? Fleury is the number one goaltender for this club that is not in question. Conklin has proved himself and, in my mind, deserves to stay here. That leaves us Sabourin, who was Fleury's backup. Do we send him to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton or do we carry three goalies? Those options seem to be what would likely occur. We could trade him for someone we could use in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, but that seems unlikely. It will be intersting to see how this plays out with Fleury's return coming quite soon.

Mark Eaton has missed more games than he has played, since becoming a Penguin. His torn ACL will likely keep him out the remainder of the season. He is good player, when he is healthy. I do not expect the Penguins to make a move to fill his role, since they are so used to having to fill it. I also don't see us trading him, because no one will take an injured player. It will not help a team win now to take him.

Adam Hall's rececnt groin injury will keep him out for a bit. The team seems to be able to step up and fill the role. I can see the Pens trading for a winger, but likely not one, who is like Hall. We have other roles to fill that are more pressing.

Gary Roberts is a player, who is greatly missed. His broken leg is a horrible blow. There is no one else like Gary. He is a good player that gave the team much needed grit. It will be great, when he returns, but I don't see us adding another player like him.

Kris Beech's broken wrist again gave us the need for another forward. We just acquired him and he went down. He wasn't here long enough to have a role to fill.

Sidney Crosby's high annkle sprain was one of the toughest blows the Penguins have had to face this season. His return is still a few weeks away and is highly anticipated. Malkin has really stepped up his game in number 87's absence. There is no one else like Sidney.

Injuries aside, the Penguins really need to work on their penelty kill and their power play. We need someone, who can move the puck on the PK. We need a forward, who can bring defensive mind to the PK and still play offense. On the power play we have two great play makers in Crosby, when he returns, and Malkin, but hwat we really need is a sniper for them to feed,a power specialist, if you will. I looke for the Pens to try to fill one of these roles comeing up on the dealine. If I were Shero, these would be my focus. Nagy is someone I could see fitting into the team.

The Injury Bug Bites Again

Hey pens fans,
Kris Beech broke his wrist in the Carolina game. He has been placed on Injured Reserve and will be out indefinetly. The Pens have called up forwards Chris Minard and Connor James from Wilkes-Barre/Sranton. Also, defenseman Alex Goligoski has been sent back down to Wilkes-Barre Scranton.

Pens Fall to Hurricanes

Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens were in Carolina taking on the Hurricanes. The Pens lost 4-2. Brooks Orpik scored his first goal since 2005 and Malkin had the Pens' other goal. Sabourin was in goal stopping 42 of 46. The Pens' penelty kill struggled tonight and allowed 3 goals. The Pens only had 20 shots on net, as well. It was a mediocre effort for the Pens and they need to put it behind them and move on. The Pens will be in Buffalo on Sunday.

Kennedy Called Up and Rumor Update

Hey pens fans,

The Pens have once again recalled Tyler Kennedy from the Baby Pens. He will be here for his third stint this season. He missed a few weeks with mono and then returned to the ice in the AHL last week. He has 2 goals in his last 3 games for the Baby Pens.

Rumors
Count the Pens out, when it comes to Boyle. It is not likely and I don't think he would fit into the team in a way we need, right now.

Ladislav Nagy is a player that could "likely" be in Pittsburgh by the dealine. Can you imagine him on a line with Malkin or Crosby. That could be amazing. This makes sense. I am just concerned with what we have to give up to get him.

Many names are being tossed around in relation to the Pens, right now. Proabably because we have some cap space to play with. I do not think that most of these rumors have much substance, but Shero is likely listening to a lot of offers. Jokinen, Lang and McKee are a few names that I have heard, but I have no info as to if has been discussed or if Shero has any interest in them. I do not see Jokinen or Lang as a possibility. McKee is just slightly more realistic.

As for Mark Recchi, I repeat. He is not coming back to Pittsburgh. We let him go for nothing on waivers. He wasn't playing well for us. He is fitting in and playing well in Atlanta. I have gotten many messages asking about him. He will not return to the Pens at any point in the forseeable future. Atlanta is not going to give him up easily and, as much as I loved Recchi throughout the years, it makes no sense to bring him back, yet again.

Pens Fall to Bruins

Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens took on the Bruins at the Mellon Arena. They lost by a score of 2-1. The Bruins were flying tonight and they seemed to have the Pens at bay from the get-go. Conklin was in net and played a good game, overall. The Pens are in Carolina tomorrow night and Crosby will make the trip. The team has said this is for him to have more practice with the team. The time table for his return to the ice has not changed. Fleury is in Wilkes-Barre for a conditioning stint and will likely remain there for a week or so.

Fleury

Hey pens fans,
The Pens have sent Fleury to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton for conditioning.

Pens Defeat Kings and Flyers this Weekend

Hey pens fans,
Sorry for the late post, it has been one of those few days.

Saturday, the Pens defeated the Kings 4-2. Ryan Malone had a goal and Malkin had 2. Malkin almost had the HT, when he rung it off the pipe on an empty net. Sabourin was in goal for that game. It was a good effort by the Pens and a good win.

Sunday, the Pens defeated the Flyers 4-3. Sykora, Malkin, Gonchar, and Letang each had a goal. Conklin was in net. It was a good effort, though we faded off a bit for the second period. It was a heated match and Ruutu held his own. We slid a bit at the very end giving up a late goal, but held out for the win.

Pens Beat Isles

Hey pens fans,
Last night, the Pens beat the Isles 4-3. Whitney had 2 goals and Malone and Letang each had one. Conklin was in net. It was a good, tough win for the Pens, who remain at home for 2 games this weekend.

Crosby Skates

Hey pens fans,
Sidney Crosby is now skating. It will still be a while before he returns.

Rumor Time

Hey pens fans,

There are plenty of rumors flying around out there, with the deadline approaching. Here is the run down of the Penguin ones.

Hossa: Atlanta is lookinig to move him before they lose him to free agency. They want to make the playoffs and they have some slots to fill in the roster. I think Hossa will move. I would say the Penguins are one of the more likely teams, but nothing deinite.

Jokinen: Florida wants to trade him. The Penguins are rumored to be involved, but I doubt he will come here based on what I know now.

Boyle: Tampa may very well trade hime, but San Jose, Buffalo and Philly seem to be the likely destinations. Though, he has been linked to the Pens in too many sources to ignore.

Blake: He would be a good fit with the Pens. Sources say he will only go to a team that is a playoff contender with a good shot at a cup. I think that he may likely go elsewhere, but Pittsburgh makes a lot of sense and it is rumored to be a "good" possibility.

Recchi: Seriously? We let him go on waivers. We will not trade for him, though his name keeps coming up. If we wanted him, we would have never let him go in the first place. This is not goinig to happen. He seems to fit in Atlanta and his play has improved since the move.

Malone, Ruutu and Laraque are rumored to be the players the Pens are currently shopping.

Ryan Malone has to be the most frequently rumored Penguin. Every deadline and off season for at least 3 years his namae is involved in multiple trade rumors. I do not think we will move him, unless we are making a deal for something really big.

Ruttu is a very logical name to trade. it seems to be a possibility that he could be involved in possible deals. He is a player that teams would want that we would be willing to give up.

Laraque will most tlikely not be moved. He fits into our team and was a great acquisition. He brings much needed grit to the team.

Pens Fall to Devils in OT

Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens fell too the Devils in OT on the road. the final score was 4-3 Devils. Malone, Sykora and Staal had the Pens goals. Sykora got his 6ooth point. Malkin had 2 assists. Conklin was in goal stopping 21 of 25 shots. In the second, it loked like there would be no stopping the Pens from this victory, but in the end they were stopped. The Pens need to start winning against divisional opponents. Those are big games that we need.

Roster Moves

Hey pens fans,
The Penguins have reassigned Jonathan Filewich and Alain Nasreddine to Wilkesbarre/Scranton

Pens Down Canes and Some Info

Hey pens fans,
Last night, the Pens mounted 4 goals in the third to down Carolina 4-1. Christensen, Sykora, Malkin, and Malone got the goals. Conklin was in the net. It was a solid effort by the team. They looked a little off in the beginning, but they picked up, took control, and never looked back.

Beech is with the team and practicing. Look for him sometime in the near future.

Fleury is still at least 2 weeks away from returning

Roster Moves

Hey pens fans,
The Pens have acquired forward David Gove from the Carolina Hurricanes for forward Joe Jensen. Gove played 45 games this season scoring 23 points for the Albany River Rats, the American AHL affiliate of the Hurricanes. Gove will report to Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Jensen was originally selected by the Penguins in the eighth round of the 2003 NHL Draft. He recorded four points in 27 games for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton this season.

Pens Fall to Thrasers on the Road

Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens lost to the Thrashers 4-1. Conklin was in net and stopped 16 of 20 shots. Whitney had the only goal (Christensen, Talbot). The Pens had 30 shots on the night. They played a fairly good game. With the injuries, I thought it was a good effort. One thing that is positive is that thtey never gave up and played until the bitter end. No one should be upset with their effort tonight.

Pens Down Devils

Hey pens fans,
Tonight, the Pens defeated the Devils in New Jersey 4-2. Malone had 2 goals and Staal and Christensen each had one. It was a good game by the Pens and they are on track to continue their recent winning ways, even with the injuries. The Pens are in Atlanta tomorrow night.

Many Things

Hey pens fans,
Kennedy has mono. Beech has been claimed off waivers and returns to Pittsburgh. Nassreddine and Smith have been recalled.

The All-Star game was great. I have pictures and stories that are to come on the site.

All Star

Hey pens fans,
This will be my last post until I return from All-Star Weekend in Atlanta. I will have pics of all the action upon my return.

I'm Back/Pens Fall to Flyers

Hey pens fans,
Well, I am back in the States after my few weeks in England. The Pens seem to have done well. The injuries are a bit of a blow. Crosby being out is going to hurt and Sid needs not to rush it. I had a very sismilar injury about 4 years ago and I did not do as I was told and my ankle is still a problem today.
Tonight, the Pens fell 4-3 to the Flyers. Malkin, Sykora, and Whitney had the goals. Laraque had a few great moments. It was a good game. We just fell short.
I will be leaving for Atlanta to attend the All Star Game. I will have full coverage when I return.

Away

Hey pens fans,
I am writing this as my last post before I leave. I am going on a trip to London for a few weeks for a class. I am leaving tomorrow and will not return until the 23rd. I will return a few days before the All-Star game and will travel to Atlanta to cover the game. I will post on all major happenings with the Pens upon my return. If anyone hears breaking news they want to share with other readers, please post it as a comment to this post. Let's Pens!

Pens Win Winter Classic!

Hey pens fans,

Well, the drive to Buffalo was definetly worth it. The Pens emerged victorious 2-1 in the shoot out. Conklin played an amazing game. The team, as a whole did, as well. The NHL should consider more outdoor games, but I think it should only be every five years or so. That will keep it special. I think if the league did this every year, it would lose some of its magic. Penguin fans travel. Interstates 79 and 90 were like a giant Penguin caravan. Every stop I made, I found Penguin fans along the enitre way. The way there was great with fans waving and showing Pens pride up the interstate. I would guess that there were about 15,000 Penguin fans at that game. That is impressive. The way home was a little dicey, at times. Many cars went off into ditches and hopefully all are okay. It wasn't quite the fun celebration down the initerstate I had ennvisioned. Below are some of my pictures from the game.