Official Season Long Postgame Thread

You know Pengo, I have been pretty impressed with the way Ryan Whitney has played.  During the playoffs he has stepped up his play considerably.  His play on the defensive end much of the year was deplorable.  However, during the playoffs, he has taken a much better approach to that part of his game.  We all know that he has some limitations but when he concentrates on being positionally sound and works hard in his own zone, he is adequate.  Plus, he seems to be being playing with more confidence since he has been paired with Kris Letang.

It is crazy that Letang has got this good this fast.  He is so good defensively that he makes Whitney a better player because Whitney has taken a deep breath and has simplified things.  Much of this comes out of his trust in Letang as a partner, something he did not have with Daryl Sydor.   Letang is only going to get better and this could make it easier to move Whitney.  I have obviously not been shy in my belief this would be a great move.  One, because of the money freed up to pay more necessary players but also because Whitney could garner picks or youth that could bolster the minor league roster. 

I am just happy to see Whitney play well.  Just as I was when Ryan Malone started being the player I envisioned and now Marc-Andre Fleuy is doing the same.  All of these players were called out and criticized by me numerous times and I am more than happy to see them make me eat my words.   I will say that it is nice not to cringe every time I see #19 on the ice though I do still worry from time to time.  I just want to enjoy the ride like everyone else and end this series with the Flyers, I have had enough.

OK, two hours until the puck drops.  I expect the Pens to come out with more determination today and just "want it" more than they did on Thursday.

I want to see Iron Mike go for the jugular today.  I want to see the bench shortened to three lines today.  I have said it before, but I will say it again ... there is no reason why either Crosby, Malkin or Staal shouldn't be on the ice at all times.

Sprinkle in Talbot and Roberts (if he plays) in and out with Ruutu and Dupuis.  Talbot has been great since his return ... I would give him some chances on the left side with Sid and Hossa.  This is it ... the Pens have had plenty of rest this post-season with a sweep and a 5-game series.  There is no reason not to use your horses today.

Well, I'm already a few beers in, but I'll drink to that!!!!

Not much to say about today's game ... just awesome.  My unsung heroes for the series go to J. Staal and Mad Max.  In the end, the Pens depth was just too much ... although the star players were terrific as well.  Fleury was outstanding, Sid was phenomenal, and I can't say enough about Hossa and Malone.  And the "D" was great again ... all six of them.  20 guys working towards one goal ... this is fun to watch.

"It's a Great Day for Hockey"

Hey Crow - congratulations. Who would have thought when you started this that the Pens would be in the Stanley Cup finals? It has been a great year and the best is yet to come.

Go Pens!

Wow I look back at this thread and there is times were we were all worrying if the Pens were going to make the playoffs and now we are in the Stanley Cup Finals! Great game by all the Pens! Way to close out the series with a 6-0 beat down. Fleury played awesome when the Flyers actually put pucks to the net. This is awesome, I still can't believe we are heading to the Finals! Now we get just relax and see if we play either the Wings or the Stars. Can't wait for the Finals to start! And way to go Sid for not touching the trophy! Now it is party time! Go Pens!