Thanks For Everything, Gary Roberts!

Photo appropriately lifted from The Pensblog.

Moment of silence, as Gary Roberts has apparently played his last game for the Penguins.

...

Although I knew this was bound to happen, what with the tight cap space and all, its still sad to see such a beloved player leave your hometown team. Hell, Jagr played in the 'Burgh for 11 seasons and left with less tears in the eyes of Pittsburghers than with the departure of Roberts, who played a total of 57 regular season games in the black and gold.

Malkin needs a contract. MAF needs one soon. Orpik should get paid, provided he stays. Gary Roberts is old. I hate myself for trying to justify this, but we need to stay positive. We're no longer an inexperienced team who needs older wingers to help the kids along. Its time for the young players to step up.

I'm most curious about who will fill that tough, hard-around-the-edges spot on the wing. Roberts is gone. Ryan Malone is likely out the door. If Ruutu is re-signed, could he show the constraint needed to fill that void? Time will tell.

Oh, and sucks to be this dude on Craigslist, tryin' to sell a Roberts stick in Pittsburgh.


i got an untaped gary roberts stick it is in mint condition...... serious replies only call me 412-969-XXXX we can meet to make deal cash only.....! or feel free to write me.





Good luck, buddy.

Who Will Be The Penguins' Alternate Captains?

I've told you before that I call my writing style at PSaMP "stream of consciousness sportsblogging." When I give you the MPotD (or CMPotD), I have no idea what I'm going to write about later that day regarding sports. Ill flip through the blogosphere, check some newspaper websites, Google News, Youtube, emailed tips from readers, whatever it takes to find something that sparks my interest. I can count on one hand (maybe two) the amount of times in the 15 or so months of PSaMP's existence that I've actually prepared a post prior to the day it gets published.

Writing like this can really stress me out at times, but I've been able to give my two cents on topics that I wouldn't have thought of had already prepared something. Case in point, this morning, I got my daily Pensblog read, which linked to Pens Nation (which is now making its way to the Wild Ass Links in my sidebar). On Pens Nation, their sidebar has a ton of information that you usually don't find on blogs: team captains, HOFers, free agents, trophy winners, etc. It was in looking at the team's current captain/alternate captains list that I came to a realization, could we potentially lose 75% of our alternates?

Sergei Gonchar is locked up. There is no way he loses the A next season. The other 3 might not even be in Pens unis next year. Ryan Malone seems to be on his way out. Pensblog asks if the $2.5 mil Sydor is owed next season could be better used elsewhere. Would Sydor be traded or let go? Gary Roberts made $2.5 mil this year, and could potentially retire or seek a one year contract for a similar amount elsewhere. As much as he's loved in Pittsburgh, these are the truths in hockey that fans have to understand.

That makes Gonchar the only sure alternate. Who gets the other 3 spots if Roberts, Sydor and Malone don't return and the team figures on keeping 4 revolving alternates?

Geno Gino. Apparently, its spelled with an I rather than an E. I'll still use Geno as a tag on posts mentioning Malkin to keep consistency, though. If the Pens don't trade the kid (I'm sick of hearing that nonsense, bullshit rumor), he'd have to be next in line to don the A. With Sid out this past season, Gino was the unspoken captain of the team, elevating his play to heights unseen. The weight of the A should ensure his continued upward progression by adding team responsibility.

Hossa. If he is indeed in line for a contract from Ray Shero, I'd imagine Hossa getting an A to go with the money. He could be a captain on several lowly clubs, a notion that might've scared potential suitors prior to this year's playoffs. He showed that he can perform with the spotlight on, and should proudly wear the A.

Sykora, Staal or Fleury. The last alternate is a tough one. I've ruled out any big name free agent (hinging on a potential Hossa contract), seeing how the tight money issue should nullify any chance of acquiring a free agent worthy of wearing the alternate's A. Long term contracts for both Staal and Fleury are still a thought for the future, as would be the addition of an A to their jerseys. Staal is still young, and could be an option down the road if Shero can find money for a contract for Staal. Fleury has played well, but his name might be a stretch. If its Sykora, that would make a Canadian captain and 4 European alternates (provided Gino and Hossa join Gonch).

Also, adding Gino would officially signal the new era of Pens stars. Prior to Malone getting the A this season, Mark Recchi joined Sydor, Gonch and Roberts. It was all about veteran leadership and experience. What with making the playoffs the past two seasons and suffering incredible heartbreak both times, I think the young stars have gained the experience to begin a new era of Pittsburgh dominance on ice. Giving Gino an A to compliment Sid's C would effectively tell the rest of the league that there's no more excuses revolving around youth inexperience, and our young stars are leading the way.

So, any thoughts on who might back up Sid in 08-09? I know I picked three forwards in Gino, Hossa and Sykora, but would a blueliner accompany Gonch?

Or will Shero find a way to keep as many of the current alternates as possible?

Gary Roberts and Chris Chelios Are Old

How money is the Winnipeg Sun?

Straight from their desks, because I'm a blogger in my mom's basement, sitting in my underwear eating Bagel Bites (those things are killer, though) while only wearing my undies as I recycle other folks' stories, comes the realization that both the Pens and Wings have guys who played against each other for a Cup once. In 1989.

And now that I've mentioned it, I really want some Bagel Bites.

Flash back to '89, and we've got a local hockey team with no Cups to its name. Gary Roberts is a second year winger on the eventual Cup-winning Flames. Chris Chelios was finishing up his 15th season as a defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens (Chelios is old).

Both players have won Lord Stanley since Roberts bested Chelios in '89, but while Chelios is a sure-fire HOFer, look at the Sun's recap of Roberts' career:

[Roberts] has been an all-star, had his career ended by injury, made a remarkable comeback, lived through two lockouts, almost carried the Toronto Maple Leafs to a Cup final, changed his life with a second marriage and second family, signed as a free agent in Florida and was traded to Pittsburgh at the deadline one year ago.

He won a Cup in his second full season in Calgary; He has not played for one since.

Unreal timeline.

While I don't like how most sports outlets like to give past stats as a way to predict current outcomes (i.e. Roberts is 1-0 lifetime against Chelios in the Finals), I'd hope that history CAN repeat itself, and despite the change in decades and teams, Roberts can prevail over Chelios once more.

Oh, and I know this is kinda old, but Gary Roberts doesn't hate Pittsburgh. Same can't be said for Chelios and Detroit.



Go Pens!

Ryan Malone Is Gary Roberts?

Gary Roberts can dunk a basketball with his feet.

Gary Roberts is so tall, he did a backflip and kicked Jesus in the mouth.

These are some of the Pensblog-inspired Gary Roberts Facts that make up half of the legend (okay, I made that second one up myself).

The other part of his legend includes his playoff performances, especially against Ottawa. All legends need substance, right?

This may seem a little far fetched right now, but I see Ryan Malone at the onset of his own Roberts-like career. I'm using no stats, merely my own opinion. I'm too lazy and bogged down with actual work to look up stats right now.

Watching Malone tirelessly work the top of the crease this postseason, I can't help but notice how much he plays like a younger Gary Roberts. Roberts immediately impacted the Pens with his presence around the net when he was acquired last season. Pittsburgh fans appreciated that on a level unrecognized before #10 came to town. Throughout this playoff run, Malone has matured into the type of crease-invading player that alters the course of the postseason. And he's conveniently doing it to pick up the slack with Gary out of the lineup.

Malone helped his boyhood team reach the final for the first time since '92 with two goals and an assist in the series-clinching game 5 win over the Flyers. Should the Pens win the Cup this season, Malone's contributions to help get the team this far would be seen as inspirational.

Roberts won a Cup early in his career, which is one of the reasons why his name invokes so many unique images. Would Roberts-facts Facebook pages exist if he was just another Cup-less player?

So if the Pens win the Cup, will Malone be that gritty, physical, garbage-goal scoring vet 10 years down the road? Will he get his own, Ryan Malone facts? He's physical (fought Hatcher), can score in the crease, knows how to check...and now has a chance to win a Cup.

Roberts-esque, if you ask me.

And too bad for us that he's going to be an unrestricted free agent.

Go Pens!

(yes, I did just pull that off a live-stream of tonight's anthem)

Game 2.

Go Pens!

UPDATE: Is Don Cherry subconsciously rooting for the Pens?

Civic Arena Ice Sucks

Home ice advantage?

Yes (according to me, no, according to Max Talbot).

Morning warm ups proved that ice conditions are less than desirable, and that's with no bodies in the stands. Mellon Civic Arena ice is usually regarded as one of the worst in the league, keeping the team on pace with the Steelers and their yearly turf struggles.

Talbot said, about the ice:

In the morning there was no crowd and there was no heat and it was pretty bad. Both teams have to play on it, and it's not an advantage for either team.

Now, its easy to believe Max, since he's doing the actual playing of the game, but I'm a blogger, my job is to disagree (and I'll do it rather politely, since its my team).

I'll only point to the stat of the Penguins having a home record of 26-10-5, which was tops in the East. It appears our Flightless Birds have found a way to adapt. The ice may be shitty, but the team that plays on it is used to the conditions.

Oh, and even if the ice isn't a wee bit of an advantage, I know of one other factor that could sway the outcome of the game:



Oh, yes.

Go Pens!

Hockey Night In Pittsburgh? I'd Say So

Best. Song. Ever?

You might have to check out the life-altering happenings at Soul Merchants. It appears our Penguins have a new fight song.

A few notes about last nights win:

I kinda remember someone saying:

"I don't mean to sound over-confident, just excited. The Sens will likely be without Captain Daniel Alfredsson, which coincides nicely with the return of Senator-killer Gary Roberts...Happy holidays, Penguins fans!"

and:

"Lots of people were concerned when Roberts broke his leg. He's old, and prior to his injury, he struggled at the onset of the season. However, before he got injured, I still wasn't worried about his offensive output. Looking back on what he contributed after Ray Shero traded for him last season...he's a guy who is much more valuable in the playoffs. Even if Roberts played all 82 games this season, I would have been okay with no goals and no assists. The man is a playoff force, and frankly, anything positive he gives the team in the postseason trumps any struggles he had prior to breaking his leg."

Who was that guy?

What a way to open the post-season!

Go Pens!

Time For Revenge

(picture blatantly stolen from, then credited to, The Pensblog)

I'm not that pissed about yesterday's loss to Philly. How can I be, when we wrapped up a season that saw the Penguins secure the 2 seed in the East? Getting the 1 seed would have been a paper championship, and the team needn't focus on those with the grueling playoffs starting in a handful of days.

The real reason I didn't mind the loss is because our first-round opponent is set. And they're a familiar foe. The Ottawa Senators.

You may remember the Senators destroying Pittsburgh in the opening round of last-season's playoffs. Pittsburgh was on the wrong side of the 4-5 series, playing more games in Canada than in the States. The Pens won only one game, then hit the links early. If you hadn't prayed for this matchup in the first round of this year's playoffs, then you are not a Penguins fan. We need to serve up some revenge. Senators beware.

I don't mean to sound over-confident, just excited. The Sens will likely be without Daniel Alfredsson, which coincides nicely with the return of Senator-killer Gary Roberts. Also, I enjoy knowing that Ottawa played sub-.500 hockey since Christmas. Happy holidays, Penguins fans!

My head is nearly exploding with the possibility of destroying Ottawa in the first round. Now, they still have Spezza and Heatley, so I'm not writing them off before we even play a game. However, not having Captain Alfredsson makes MAF's job that much easier.

The puck drops in two days. All the accomplishments of this past season are gone. Evgeni Malkin is 100-some points lighter, and MAFer is looking for his first win of the season. Sid the Kid has two healthy ankles. There's blood in the water, and the Penguins have the scent.

Go Pens.

Gary Roberts Will Check Someone In Half In The Playoffs

(Picture ripped directly from The Pensblog. However, I'm not the asshole who wouldn't credit them)

First things first...I don't like stealing some other blog's inside jokes and using them to make myself look funny and unique. Gary Roberts (and all the myths/urban legends that go with him) is The Pensblog's baby. Several other blogs (not naming names or trying to hate on anyone specific) have referenced Gary Roberts in attempts to be funny/cool, and didn't even give credit where credit is due. I'm not piggybacking on Pensblog's ideas with this title...it is merely what I believe as a Penguins fan.

Lots of people were concerned when Roberts broke his leg. He's old, and prior to his injury, he struggled at the onset of the season. However, before he got injured, I still wasn't worried about his offensive output. Looking back on what he contributed after Ray Shero traded for him last season...he's a guy who is much more valuable in the playoffs. Even if Roberts played all 82 games this season, I would have been okay with no goals and no assists. The man is a playoff force, and frankly, anything positive he gives the team in the postseason trumps any struggles he had prior to breaking his leg.

So my excitement was unparalleled when I heard Roberts was back at (non-contact) practice. He's even practicing more of late (at the bottom of the article).

And I doubt Roberts' presence will do anything to hinder the team's ability to gel as a unit (heh-heh...does anybody wanna see MY unit?). Hell, the team knows this. Roberts hasn't been off by himself during his rehab. The dude's been with Lemieux in the owner's box for games, hanging at practices, even serving food for rich people alongside his 'mates. Its amazing that injuries have forced the team to use 37 different players this season, but the way the Penguins continually produce at a high level kills any thoughts of team chaos. Roberts was a part of that team before his injury...he'll fit right in upon his return.

Gary Roberts has had a lot of time to contemplate just how he's going to make his voice heard when he gets back. I expect to see two halves of the same person from the opposing team laying on the ice in the playoffs.

And Gary Roberts skating away with a smile.

The Penguins > Your Mom

The first half of the Penguins season is over. The best recap of the first 41 games is over at the Pensblog. Honestly, where else would I direct you?

The team's record is currently 23-16-2, and their 48 points are only 1 behind division leader New Jersey. With the slow start, coupled with the red-hot pace set early by Philly, the Penguins cannot be mad with where they currently sit. Now, everyone in the Atlantic are one win streak away from taking the division lead, so the Pens better not sit back and take a complacent attitude in the second half. I mean, 4 points separate the leader from the basement. Its safe to assume that there will be a considerable amount of Willie Shoemaker-ing for position down the stretch. Jockeying, dorks.

Now, Pittsburgh is currently the #4 team in the East. I'd love to stay on this side of the 4-5 split for the playoffs. Last year, we ended the season on the wrong side of the 4-5 seeding with Ottawa. We all know how that turned out. Home games in the playoffs are clutch. The current 8-2 run has helped our surge in points, and overtaking New Jersey in the division would propel the Penguins to the #2 seed in the East. I know we still have a half of a season to play, but the team needs to keep their eyes on the prize. We've been able to win despite key injuries to guys like MAF, Gary Roberts and Max Talbot, and getting those guys back down the stretch could help the team make a run at the top seed in the East. And try and tell me that you weren't hoping for something like that before the season began.

If Ottawa stays hot, we need to keep pace to delay any matchup with the Sens as long as possible. A 2, or possible 1 seed would hold them off till the Conference finals, assuming that their current record keeps them within contention for the best record in the East. And assuming that both teams take care of business throughout the season and playoffs. I don't like to assume, because it makes an ass out of ume. Or something like that. I just don't want another repeat of last year's postseason. The loss to Ottawa hurt. So much that I refused to write about the Penguins for some time. I'd rather write about the 3rd Cup brought to the city.

But back to reality, I can't say I'm too disappointed with where the Penguins currently sit. And Sid just got the most votes for the All-Star Game ...again. That warms the shit outta my cockles. My cockles is burnin'.*




* Big Trouble is the best movie Tim Allen's done this side of The Santa Clause.

This Is The Reason That Text Messaging Was Invented

If you aren't excited about the upcoming Pens season, you should check your pulse.

Mad love goes to Michael Holovak at the Duquesne Duke for digging up this scoop.

Have trouble finding student rush tickets last season? You probably weren't alone. The quick success of Sid and Co. caused many a sellout at the 'Gloo, and ice-popped kids struggled to get their hands on the $20 Student Rush tix.

Because of this problem, the Pens have created a new lottery-style Student Rush program. Holovak, via Penguins.com, says:

...games on pace to sell out will have a lottery for 200 Student Rush tickets via text message within 48 hours of the game and 100 lottery winners will then be given a password to purchase up to two student rush tickets on ticketmaster.com.

Texting “RUSH” to 32623 will sign you up for the alerts.

So why are tickets being distributed this way? To borrow a tagline from the Penguins, it’s an evolution.

"We had to adjust for the times,” said Tom McMillan, Vice President of Communications for the Penguins. “Last year we just alerted students if we had a high, medium or low inventory of Student Rush tickets. As attendance grew it became difficult to slot tickets for students.”

Word.

I know most of you probably thought text messaging was only good for goofy one-liners sent to friends, scam ringtone subscriptions or making your voice heard on the flavor of the month reality show.

Turns out, the Penguins have turned text messaging into a necessity for all hopeful young Pens-watchers.

If games aren't going to sell out (doubtful), standard student rush procedures stay in place. Go to the 'Gloo with your student I.D. and your Andrew Jackson.



UPDATE: One final notice, Sid's Alternative Captains were named. Sergei Gonchar, Mark Recchi and Gary Roberts will all don the A. Perfect trio.

Best. Penguins. Preview. Ever.

Don't care who you are, Wallace and Gromit will kick your ass.

Back to the point, Pensblog absolutely dominated their Penguins season preview. I nearly cried.

Even if you don't read Pensblog (and if you don't, you suck), any season preview means the season is about to start. I'm expecting big things from Sid and Co. this season. Every hockey "expert" can go eat me with their New York Ranger-bandwagon-jump-on-ing (sorry, that was the best I could do). Ooooh...they got Chris Drury, they should be the favorite to win the East. Bullshit. Last I checked, we still have the reigning league MVP (and Gary Roberts...and Georges Laraque). Sure, Drury makes the Rangers better, but its sick how the "experts' are already foaming at the mouth over New York.

Last I checked, they had the bottom-rung Staal brother. Pens have Jordan "Upped My Cred By Getting Arrested" Staal. End of argument.

Those of you who haven't been around these parts since PSaMP was founded (all of you) don't know that the Penguins were the muse for this blog. PSaMP was born out of my overflowing emotions as the team announced that they wouldn't be leaving Pittsburgh. That caused me to create this blog and write the first (shitty) post. And during those formative times, all I covered was the Pens. Pirates season hadn't started, the Steelers were a distant memory, and the massive strides made by Sid and Co. filled my every thought.

Now, with the '07-'08 season about to start, all I can do is bow to Pensblog for giving such an amazing preview. Well done.

Oh God, its time.

Its a Good Day to be a Pens Fan!

Finally!

It seems like its been forever since talks began with the two veterans, but Ray Shero and the Pens signed Gary Roberts and Mark Recchi. Both are signed to 1 year deals.

Roberts' deal is said to be for $2.5 mil, while Recchs can earn up to $2 mil through bonuses.

The Pens should be a clear Stanley Cup favorite going into the season. Seeing what Gary Roberts did for the team down the stretch to the playoffs last season, PSaMP is giddy with excitement over what he can bring for an entire year!

Well played, Ray Shero. Now somebody go buy his tie!

Penguins Sign Winger Wallace

The Penguins signed a deal with a winger, but not a high profile, 40 goal guy. Instead, the team agreed to terms on an entry-level contract with Tim Wallace, who played collegiate hockey at Notre Dame.

Wallace might be recognized by the hardcore Pens fan, having participated in rookie camp before being cut by Pittsburgh during regular training camp last season. He spent 32 games in Wilkes-Barre, scoring 14 points, as well as 19 games with the Wheeling team of the East Coast Hockey League, scoring 17 points.

After acquiring defenseman Jonathan D'Aversa earlier in the week, the Pens seem intent on continuing the youth movement that was ushered in by Crosby/Malkin/Stall/Fleury. Ray Shero is adamant about not signing a big-name winger for a one-year fix. If the Pens are going to win, they're going to win with the young guys on the team.

The Pens still could use a veteran winger, and PSaMP is hoping a deal will happen with Gary Roberts. Re-signing Mark Recchi would also be a bonus. However, Wallace may be a good fit as a backup to Roberts or Recchs, seeing as how both will enter next season (if they re-sign) as the silvertops of the group. Gary turned 41 a few days ago, while Recchs will hit the big 4-0 in February. Having a young guy like Wallace in Wilkes-Barre again will only provide an insurance plan for the old, decrepit vets (I'm kidding).

The Tribune-Review Is All Over the Steelers This Morning

Don't read too much into it. Just because I occasionally read the Trib, that doesn't mean that I'm some right-wing sports aficionado. I just like to get the full spectrum of sporting news, so I read the Trib just like I would read the Post-Gazette. And the Trib just happened to have more Steelers stories this morning. Here's a few updates on the black and gold.

Mike Prisuta sat down for a one-on-one with Steelers safety Troy Polamalu. The interview centered mainly around the coaching change, and how bright Pittsburgh's immediate future looks. I wanted Prisuta to ask Troy about the contract situation, and if Troy was confident that the Rooneys wouldn't pull a Faneca/Porter on him. But alas, no "business" questions, and Troy stuck to "football-only" answers.

Marvel Smith loves "playing" next to Alan Faneca, according to John Harris. Smith said the two leftside linemen have their own communication system on the field, and having Faneca close by makes it easier on him. He's one of the first Steelers to openly support Faneca, who will must assuredly miss all 14 workouts before reporting for training camp. Harris calls Smith one of the elite left tackles in the game. If by elite, Harris means "easily gives away when a play is going to be a pass by starting in a pass-protection stance," then yes, Smith is elite.

Deisel Keisel is about to be put to work, says Scott Brown. Brett's versatility and quickness will help Dick LeBeau and Mike Tomlin develop 4-3 plans in which Keisel (above, with the cool gold helmet) can play DE or Linebacker. His teammates call him one of the best basketball players on the team, and admit that the 28 year old still has a lot of football left in him. Brown even likens Keisel's '07-'08 position to that of Adalius Thomas' position last year with the Ravens. The versatility part is right on, but Keisel is not the first person that I would compare to Thomas, who is a freak. I supported the decision to go with Keisel over Kimo last season, and I think Keisel can have a big impact on Tomlin's new defense. The Thomas reference was a little bit of a stretch, though.

Oh, and this isn't Steeler news, but the Pens have made offers to both Mark Recchi and Gary Roberts, writes Rob Rossi. Terms haven't been discussed, but Ray Shero obviously liked the positive influence that Roberts had in such a short time with the Pens. Popular consensus around Pittsburgh states that the Pens need a goal-scoring winger next year. Shero has been adamant, however, that the Penguins aren't going for a one-year "rent-a-player," and Pittsburgh already has the core to compete for the Cup next season. We have goal-scoring wingers in Colby Armstrong and Ryan Malone, but those two need to produce after having down years in '06-'07. The Pens can keep two proven vets for a reasonable price, while only expecting a moderate rise in points from Armstrong and Malone, in order to continue last season's success.

The Post-Gazette so far today? The Nuttings are finally seeing the importance of Dominican players. Little late, there. And Dave Littlefield is confident in Zach Duke (1-5) and Paul Maholm (2-6). That last story made my head hurt, seeing as how the two pitchers combine for a record of 3-11. And we're at the 1/3 point in the season. Anyone want to guess why we're going to push the losing streak to 15 years? Anyone?

Game 4 Was a "Must-Win," But Game 5 Really Means It This Time

I've been struggling to write a piece on game 5 tonight, but its kinda hard today. After finding every possible way to lose in games 1, 3 and 4, its hard to find legitimate reasons to keep watching. Blowouts hurt, because early deficits lead to stuff getting thrown at the t.v. Close games hurt, because afterwards, its like, "why did I get so excited and worked up? I just got so disappointed." Still, the black and gold blood flows through my veins, so games 1, 3 and 4 mean nothing to me. They are in the past, exactly opposite of where Lord Stanley sits. In honor of the future, and the slim possibility that the Pens make it out of the series alive, I will focus on all the positives that the Pens need to take into game 5.

So the game will be in Ottawa tonight. The Pens won their only game in the series in Ottawa, so that's a plus. I have never been a true disciple of "home field advantage" and the "effect of the crowd" on a game (unless said game is in Pittsburgh), but there is something special about going to another team's home, and really sticking it to their fans. Trust me, with all the sticking-to that Pittsburgh has gotten from the Sens, I can't say I'd mind really blowing out Ottawa tonight. While the Pens only had 24 shots last game, they still made it seem like there were more biscuits put on Emery. The Pens were able to keep momentum in the offensive zone, but Emery did a great job of stopping (nearly) everything the Pens threw at him.

Another positive: the sign at the top of this post. What is Bryan Murray's deal? Does he honestly have to dislike everything? I feel like if I was hanging out with Mr. Murray (which would never happen, mostly because of his weird lisp) and I offered him free money or something, the dude would probably find some reason to get mad at the Pens for it. His current bitch is that Gary Roberts is playing too physical. Except Murray would say that Roberts has been too "phythical."

Laraque's playing time has been real shady. I mentioned that he needed to play in game 4. I stand by that opinion, and feel that he should be in game 5 as well. This is like if the Steelers picked up, I don't know, Duce Staley, and didn't use him for 3 seasons (Oh wait...). The Pens played Nils Ekman, who played 2 out of the Pens' final 29 games, and he already mentioned that he will be ready for game 5. Uh, remember the way the Pens excelled down the playoff stretch? Didn't they mature to the point where they were actually competing for the Atlantic division lead (which they held, momentarily) and the #2 overall seed in the East? Was Nils Ekman in the lineup? No. Georges Laraque was in the lineup.

This game 5 analysis has started to shift from positive to negative real quick. So I'm gonna watch game 5, and support my team like it was any other game. The Pens have rallied from a 3-1 deficit before. And the coach pf the team they're playing this time has a lisp. So even in a 3-1 pit, there's still some hope for our Pens.

Something must be done about the recent 0 for 9 Power Play drought. With the talent on this Pens team, 0 for 9 is inexcusable.

Despite Good Play, Pens Drop "Must-Win" Game 4

I'm officially running out of negative adjectives to describe the 3 playoff losses so far. Yesterday's game felt right. The team actually played the 2nd period, but was unable to use to the momentum swing to score more than one goal. Jordan Staal buried a shot right in front of Emery, but the Pens could not find the back of the net again, falling 2-1 in what was viewed as a must-win game.

Its tough to take the loss last night, because the Pens were able to put themselves in a position to possibly win and even up the series. The Senators scored on a fluke goal just over 3 minutes into the game. The Pens battled to tie the score (See? Rebounds, a result of shots on goal, can lead to goals. Amazing!) but were not able to capitalize on having Volchenkov in the box in the 3rd, and that same Volchenkov came back to put the 30 foot winner past MAF.

Is it possible for the Pens to rattle off 3 straight wins? Most definitely. The Senators have just won two in a row, so they have put themselves in a position to win 3 straight games. The Penguins need to go back to Ottawa as a different team in game 5. Reassess game 4, focus on all the positives, and play with some desperation.

Georges Laraque was not in the lineup last night, and the same fate beset Erik Christensen. Christensen being benched was almost a given, seeing how the young forward has digressed lately, and his play has slipped. Laraque not being in the lineup, is a travesty. What was the point in picking up the guy, if he's benched for 3 of the 4 games so far in the series, and only skated for a total of 5 minutes in game 1? Sure, Gary Roberts' contributions have been impeccable, and the 40 year old (soon to be 41 year old) nut has been throwing his body at any Senator he can. However, Big Georges can bring that physical play, while giving guys like Roberts more of a chance to score rather than carrying the bruising load. As much the Roberts acquisition has been applauded by the league and anyone who watches the Pens, the acquisition and use of Laraque leaves more to be desired. Let him play, and skate him alongside Crosby on the first line to start the game. Why, you may ask? Well, its one combination the Penguins haven't tried, and at this point in the series, we need to scrap whatever we've been doing. Plus, guys like Volchenkov and Phillips are constantly on the ice with Crosby, so lets send a message early that the Pens can play physical, too. (I know this will never happen. I also know that Laraque doesn't have the speed, skill or stamina to play alongside the top line all game. I'm just making a point that Laraque needs to play, and more than just 5 minutes.)

Enough with that, time to check back in with the Buccos. Its been awhile since I mentioned the Pirates, mainly because I've been mad about the St. Louis sweep, the Torres blown saves, the Bonds homers, and the rainout of Jack Robinson day in the 'Burgh. With that being said, ADD Laroche hit a homer, and the Pirates beat the Redbirds 6-1. Gorzo got his revenge against the Cards, and lowered his ERA to 1.33. Gorzo had a chance to get the complete game, but was pulled in favor of Matt Capps, who recorded the final two outs. This win comes on the heels of a 3-2 win on Monday, in which Torres was given another chance to blow the game in the 9th, with Pujols on and the bases loaded. King Albert popped out on a well thrown sinker, as Salomon righted the closer ship. So the Bucs have a 2 game winning streak, and are now back to .500, sitting at 6-6. Tonight is an 8:05 start in Milwaukee (What? Are we the Indians or Angels?) and Paul Maholm will try to earn his first win this season. I hope Paul can follow up the two excellent starts by Ian Snell and Gorzo with a quality outing himself.

100th Post! Awesome.

And the 100th post is about...the Pens. Come on, with game 4 tonight and the Pens looking at a 2-1 series deficit, what else could consume my attention? Also, since I'm graduating from college in a couple weeks, I need to get my mind off of the tragedy at Virgina Tech yesterday. Seriously, all prayers and thoughts go to the entire Hokie nation.

With that being said, its time to look at what the Pens need to do differently in game 4 (uh...everything?), in order to have a fighting chance against Daniel "I'm going to outshoot the Pens in this series" Alfredsson and Company.

The shooting is a big problem. Although Geno has 4 assists in only 3 career playoff games, he has been nearly nonexistant. 8 needless penalty minutes in the series will do that to a player. If he doesn't snap out of this shooting slump, there might be problems in Penguins-land. Sidney Crosby needs to pull the trigger more as well. Actually, all of the Pens need to start firing the biscuit. How many times has just putting the puck on net helped the team? Isn't this one of the reasons that we picked up Gary Roberts? Haven't both of his goals in the series come while cleaning up in front of the net? And what about redirects ? Even unintentional redirects will find the back of the net. Ryan Whitney's goal in game 2 hit a Ottawa leg before going in.

But back to Sid. I know he's already got a goal in each game and he's a great passer, but he is passing up way too many scoring opportunities by trying to feed his teammates with better shots. I can't count how many times during this series, as well as the final 2 weeks of the season, in which Sid was streaking down the right wing with a teammate to his left, and he opted to pass to the teammate rather than shoot (for which he still had a good angle). Many of these passes were intercepted or blocked by the opposition, so the Pens got no shot rather than a clean look. Its a best of 7 series, and any smart team would put a lot of time into learning the tendencies of a superstar like Sid. Eventually, they are going to figure out that Crosby looks to pass first when he's coming down the right wing with a teammate to his left, and blocking these passes become an easier task. If Crosby puts the puck on net rather than passing to the guy to his left, he can set up a perfect rebound just as easily as he can fire a perfect pass. All I'm saying is mix it up, Sid. What's the harm in putting the puck on net? There's 3 outcomes.

1. Save
2. Goal
3. Rebound

Plus, more shots equals a greater chance of numbers 2 and 3 happening. The Pens have been outshot 99-66, so its not hard to see the biggest reason we're down 2-1. Actually, the Pens are fortunate to have 1 game. A few different bounces in game 2, and we're down 3-zip. Good article here regarding the "must-win" status of tonight's game, by Penguins playoff-beard wearer, Larry Brown.

I think Laraque needs to play game 4. He seemed kinda frustrated with not being in the lineup for games 2 and 3. I read an article yesterday, but can't seem to find it again, where Laraque basically said, "I'm not going to talk about it now," in response to his benching for games 2 and 3. If I was Laraque, I'd be upset, too. The Senators have been much more physical than the Pens, and its come down to Sid, Max Talbot, Gary Roberts and Colby Armstrong to provide the physical plays to boost the team. Now each guy can hold their own, but no player on this list is Georges Laraque. And now with a huge bullseye on Colby Armstrong (that was a legitimate hit, though), Big Georges needs to be in uniform for game 4.

The game starts at 7. My predicted score for game 3 was right, but the Pens scored the 2 rather than the 4. Tonight, I think the Pens will (must) win, by a score of 3-2. I know, I'm boring. I always pick the Pens to win. However, tonight can be (needs to be) the Penguins night, because a 3-1 hole might be impossible to climb out of. Plus, LBS will have to shave his playoff beard, which is just starting to come in nicely.

Pens Win, Even Series Up At 1

What a game! After scoring on their first shot of the game, the Penguins lost the lead on 2 separate occasions, and won it on a thrilling goal by Sid the Kid. The 4-3 win knots the series up at 1-1, with game 3 starting today at 6 P.M., a mere 24 hours after game 2 concluded. Gary "Senators-Killer" Roberts exerted his influence on the game, much like Ottawa did in game 1. With a goal and an assist, Roberts kept up his stellar success in Ottawa. Crosby's goal midway through the 3rd period put the Pens up for good, and the passing was much crisper than game 1. Recchi took a great pass from Malkin (I don't think Recchi took one pass cleanly in game 1), and fed Crosby a midair pass, which the Kid redirected off of the shaft of his stick and past Emery.

Yeah, my predicted score of 3-1 Pens was wrong, but the ultimate outcome was right. Fleury seemed sharper than he was in game 1, and the team was able to get the crowd out of the flow early on with a power play goal by Ryan Whitney (After a -2 rating in game 1, he needed a big game). I was trying to take a picture of the tv while the Pens were on the PP, and Whitney scored right as I took the picture. Perfect timing!

This is a short analysis of the game, because its always easier to overanalyze a bad loss rather than comment on a well-played game. Also, with game 3 starting in a mere 4 hours (less, actually), I'm preparing myself for the first playoff game at the Igloo since 2001, when the Pens lost to the Devils in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The win was a huge confidence booster. After the debacle that was game 1, there was a cloud of despair over Pittsburgh regarding the rest of Sid and Company's playoff-opening round. The win, coupled with a charged up Igloo crowd only 24 hours later, can lead to good things. If the Pens can ride this momentum swing in Pittsburgh, then there is no way the Pens go to sleep tonight down 2-1 in the series. I'm not big on predictions, because anything can happen in a game to change the outcome (see Daniel Alfredsson's breaking stick leading to Crosby's go-ahead goal). However, I gave a half-assed prediction before the game yesterday, so I'll pick the Pens to win 4-2 today (in honor of Jack Robinson Day in the MLB. Honestly, its going to be weird to hear "playing infield for the Dodgers, wearing number 42, its...Jeff Kent!).

The crowd's involvement was huge in games 1 and 2, so if the Pens score early, I'll be looking for the Igloo crowd to play a significant role as well. Here we go Pens, and despite the shoddy weather (its currently cold and raining...again), "It's a great day for hockey! (Hope you're proud, Badger Bob!)