Boucher announces retirement.

Penguins defenseman Philippe Boucher has announced his retirement. Boucher will retire a champion and that fact helped him with his decision. "I have always admired athletes that have retired as champions and I am humbled to have the chance to count myself among them," Boucher said today in a statement. "I would like to take this opportunity to thank my teammates, my coaches and the organizations I played with over the years. I am going to miss being with the boys."
Boucher did not forget to thank the fans in his statement either. "I would also like to recognize the best fans in all of sports. I never took for granted what a privilege it is to play this game and how important the fans are."

Congratulations Philippe Boucher on going out a Champion.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=289832

Pens name Tony Granato Assistant Coach.

It was announced today that Tony Granato will be Assistant Coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Granato has been behind the bench for the Colorado Avalanche the past 6 seasons. Granato was head coach for 3 of those seasons.
Granato is extremely excited for the opportunity to be coming to Pittsburgh. He looks forward to joining the organization and being a part of a successful team with such great players.

For more information on Tony Granato:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=463547

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=463559

Pre-season game against Columbus date change.

The pre-season game at Mellon Arena between the Pens and the Columbus Blue Jackets has been moved to Tuesday, September 15th. The game was originally scheduled for Friday, September 25th.
The conflict in the schedule was due to the G-20 Summit taking place the 24th through the 25th.

John Hynes named Assistant Coach of Baby Pens.

This past weekend, John Hynes was named the Assistant Coach of the Baby Penguins. He will be working with head coach Todd Reirden this upcoming season.

"Hynes, 34, has spent the past six seasons as a head coach with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, posting an overall record of 216-113-19-9. In 2008-09 he was head coach of the U.S. Under-17 Development Team, going 42-17-6."

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=463412

Crosby named #1 Canadian Hockey Player.

When asked who the best hockey player is, Pens fans will almost surely tell you Sidney Crosby, or Evgeni Malkin. Narrowing that down to only Canadian hockey players, the answer will surely be Sidney Crosby by Pens fans. Well, it seems NHL.com agrees. When rating the top Canadian hockey players in the NHL today, NHL.com gave Sidney Crosby the coveted number one spot. NHL.com gave their opinion in their list of the Top 10 Canadian players and Crosby was not the only Pen who was honored with appearing on the list. Marc Andre Fleury received the #4 spot. Though, Martin Brodeur received the #2 spot on the list.
No other NHL team had 2 players on the list.

To view the entire list:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=463385

Pens sign goaltender John Curry.

John Curry was expected to re-sign with the Pens and he did so a few days ago. Curry signed a 2-way contract.
"Curry registered a 33-15-1 record in 50 games last season with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins of the American Hockey League (AHL), earning a .916 save percentage and a 2.38 goals-against average. He made seven post-season appearances with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, posting a 4-3 record, a .885 save percentage and a 3.36 goals-against average."
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=458027


The Penguins also signed 2 forwards that look to be fixtures with the AHL Baby Pens. The Pens signed Wade Brookbank and Wyatt Smith to one-year contracts.

For stats and more info on these players:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=457958

Suites already sold out in Consol Energy Center.

The Consol Energy Center does not open until 2010, but all the suites are already sold out for the Pens first season in the new arena across the street from Mellon Arena. The Pens will play their 2010-11 season in the new arena and with the success of the team, it looks like the sell outs will keep coming.
"The Penguins also have sold out all 32 loge boxes – a new premium product that is being introduced in the new arena. Accordingly, the team has established a waiting list for suites and loge boxes– similar to the popular season ticket waiting list."

The Pens have 118 consecutive sell outs going into this last season at Mellon Arena. With the season ticket waiting list still growing, it shows that the future of Pens hockey is something that many people are excited for. Really, who isn't?

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=457828

Barrasso named to U.S Hockey Hall of Fame.

Former Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tom Barrasso has been named to the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame. He is part of the 2009 class that was named this past week which also included former Pittsburgh Penguin John LeClair.
Others named were Tony Amonte, Frank Zamboni and the 1998 U.S. Olympic Women’s Hockey Team.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=457764

Stanley Cup to visit Crosby on his birthday.

Sidney Crosby's 22nd birthday will be like no other he has had in the past. He will celebrate turning 22 with Lord Stanley's Cup this year. Crosby will bring the Cup to his hometown of Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia where a parade is reportedly scheduled, among many other things planned.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=285998

Dates for Ticket Sales.

Tickets for the Penguins’ two home pre-season games will go on sale Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 10 a.m. The two home pre-season games are Friday, Sept. 18 vs. Toronto and Friday, Sept. 25 vs. Columbus.

Regular season mini-plans will go on sale exclusively to members of the Penguins’ season ticket waiting list on Wednesday, Sept. 2 at 10 a.m.

Individual game tickets for the 2009-10 regular season will go on sale Saturday, Sept. 12 at 10 a.m. This is a national on-sale date for all NHL teams.

-pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=457718

Date Change for Pens vs. Carolina game.

The NHL announced today that the game between the Pens and the Carolina Hurricanes that was originally scheduled on Thursday, October 15 has been changed to Wednesday, October 14.

The date was changed because Oct. 15 is the opening day of the North Carolina State Fair, which will be held at the State Fairgrounds, adjacent to the RBC Center.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=451072

Pens sign goaltender Brent Johnson.

Today, the Pens signed 32 year old goaltender Brent Johnson to a one-year deal. This past season, Johnson played 21 games with the Washington Capitals and compiled a 12-6-2 record. Johnson will provide a veteran leadership in goaltending for the Pens.



http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=451047

Thrashers re-sign Colby Armstrong.

Colby Armstrong has singed a one-year deal with the Atlanta Thrashers rumored to be worth $2.4 million. Apparently, there are rumors that the Pens were a team that was interested in Colby, but Atlanta wanted a lot in return. I was a big fan of Colby's when he was a Pen and am still a fan of his.
Armstrong had a career year this past season in Atlanta recording 22 goals and 18 assists. Hopefully he continues his success down in Atlanta and for his sake, let's hope they are a better team this year.

Crosby wins ESPY.

Sidney Crosby once again won the ESPY for best NHL player. He has won the award the past two years, this year making it 3. Teammate Evgeni Malkin was also up for this award. But this is ESPN and for those people who voted and are not familiar with hockey, they are going to go with a name they may know in hockey and Sidney Crosby is the one most have heard.
Dan Bylsma was up for Best Coach and the entire Pens team was up for Best team. Of course, this is ESPN and hockey is far down the list when dealing with ESPN. Which is a shame, because hockey is the most entertaining sport to watch. I guess that is a matter of opinion, but hockey deserves more recognition on ESPN. To me, no other sport compares to hockey, which means that a lot of people in the U.S. are just simply not aware of one of the greatest sports out there.

Pens sign Lovejoy and Wallace.

The Penguins have signed Defenseman Ben Lovejoy to a one year contract and forward Tim Wallace to a two year contract it was announced today. It is believed that Wallace's contract is a 2-way deal.
With the loss of some defensemen from our roster and limited cap space, members who played most of last season with the Baby Pens are going to be battling for spots in the upcoming training camp.


http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=442676

Season Tickets capped at 14,000 again.

Once again, the Pens are capping their season ticket numbers at 14,000 in Mellon Arena where there are 16,940 seats. This gives fans the opportunity to purchase mini-plans and buy individual tickets as well. The Pens have a season ticket waiting list that has grown to over 3,000 names and were able to offer a few people on the top of the list a chance at season tickets next season because 98% renewed their tickets. In this economy, I believe that is not bad at all.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=442751

2009-10 Pens Season Schedule Released.

While there has been no hockey for about a month now and the draft being over and free agency slowing down, there has been a lull. Today though, the schedules were released to get the fans excited for next season. Every Pens fan has now circled October 2nd on their calenders because it is the first game of the season and the home opener. It will be even more special this year with the Pens hanging their 2009 Stanley Cup Champions banner on that evening. The Pens will play the New York Rangers. Also, another reason why this game will be special, as if people needed another reason, is that it will be the last home opener at Mellon Arena. This next season will be the final season in Mellon Arena before the Pens move into the Consol Energy Center right across the street.

For the Complete schedule:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=442749&page=NewsPage&service=page

Pens Prospect Conditioning Camp.

The Pens' Prospect conditioning camp is set for July 20-26. Among those players scheduled to attend are Eric Tangradi and the Penguins’ first-round selection in the recent NHL Entry Draft, Simon Despres.
The complete schedule will be released at a later date.

For all the info:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=442501

Pens sign new defenseman Jay McKee

The Pens signed defenseman Jay McKee to a one year contract last week. The deal is for $800,000. Last season McKee was a member of the St. Louis Blues recording eight points (one goal, seven assists) along with 44 penalty minutes in 69 games.
The 6-4, 203-pound defenseman has played parts of 13 seasons in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues and the Buffalo Sabres.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=436745

Pre-Season schedule.

Home games against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Columbus Blue Jackets highlight the Pittsburgh Penguins’ 2009 pre-season schedule.

The Stanley Cup champions will open the pre-season against Toronto on Friday, Sept. 18 at Mellon Arena (7:30 p.m.).
The Penguins also will play host to Columbus on Friday, Sept. 25 at Mellon Arena (7:30 p.m.)

The six-game schedule includes home-and-home matchups with Toronto and Columbus, as well as road games at Montreal and Detroit.

The Penguins’ 2009 pre-season schedule:
Friday, Sept. 18, TORONTO AT PITTSBURGH, 7:30 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 21, Pittsburgh at Montreal, 7:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 22, Pittsburgh at Toronto, 7:00 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 24, Pittsburgh at Columbus, 7:00 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 25, COLUMBUS AT PITTSBURGH, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 27, Pittsburgh at Detroit, 5:00 p.m.

-pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=436624

Pens Championship DVD goes on sale today.

The Pittsburgh Penguins Championship DVD goes on sale today. The DVD takes the fans back through the road it took to becoming the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions. It takes us back through each playoff series right down to the exciting game 7 in Detroit.

Talbot undergoes shoulder surgery.

Max Talbot had successful surgery today on his left shoulder to repair a torn labrum. The recovery is expected to take 4-5 months. Meaning that Talbot will miss training camp and likely the beginning of the season. Talbot has been playing with it injured for quite some time and both he and the team agreed that it would be best to have the surgery at this time.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=436381

Pens rank #3 in "Fan Relations" out of all sports.

Out of 122 Professional Sport teams, the Pittsburgh Penguins claim the Number 3 spot in Fan Relations, according to an ESPN Magazine survey. The Pens also claimed the Number 4 spot for Ownership.
In the overall standings the Pens took number 8, up from 24 last year.
The lowest number the Pens received was 103 in Stadium Experience. Playing in the oldest arena in the NHL can do that, but with the new arena for the 2010-2011 season, the Pens are sure to move up in that category as well.

For more Pens results visit pittsburghpenguins. com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=433518

Pens sign Fedotenko.

The Penguins and Ruslan Fedotenko agreed to a one year deal. Fedotenko was a priority of the Pens and he was interested in returning to the Pens. Fedotenko is happy to be back with the Pens and says that he believes the Pens have another chance of raising the Stanley Cup next season but he knows also that nothing comes easy. It will be a team effort once again.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=433422

The Pens also signed forward Chris Connor and have worked out a deal with defenseman Chris Lee.
For more information on the players:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=433492

Scuderi signs with L.A.

Rob Scuderi has made his decision and it is to leave the Penguins for the L.A. Kings. Scuderi signed a deal today that is supposedly a 3 year deal with an annual salary of about $3.4 million.
It is sad to see him go, especially since he performed pretty well in the Stanley Cup Playoffs and made some key saves in the Final against Detroit, but it was his decision and the Pens could not match what he was being offered. I wish Scuderi all the best with the Kings.

Team Canada releases Olympic Camp Roster.

Soon after the USA Hockey group released their roster for the 2010 Olympic Camp, Team Canada has done the same. It is no surprise that Sidney Crosby is invited. He will be joined by teammates Marc Andre Fleury and Jordan Staal who were also invited to the camp. 46 players were invited and that list will need to be cut down to 23 by the end of December.

Those invited:
Goaltenders: Martin Brodeur, New Jersey; Marc-Andre Fleury, Pittsburgh; Roberto Luongo, Vancouver; Steve Mason, Columbus; Cam Ward, Carolina

Defensemen: Francois Beauchemin, UFA; Jay Bouwmeester, Calgary; Dan Boyle, San Jose; Brent Burns, Minnesota; Drew Doughty, Los Angeles; Mike Green, Washington; Dan Hamhuis, Nashville; Duncan Keith, Chicago; Scott Niedermayer, Anaheim; Dion Phaneuf, Calgary; Chris Pronger, Philadelphia; Robyn Regehr, Calgary; Stephane Robidas, Dallas; Brent Seabrook, Chicago; Marc Staal, New York Rangers; Shea Weber, Nashville

Forwards: Jeff Carter, Philadelphia; Dan Cleary, Detroit; Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh; Shane Doan, Phoenix; Simon Gagne, Philadelphia; Ryan Getzlaf, Anaheim; Dany Heatley, Ottawa; Jarome Iginla, Calgary; Vincent Lecavalier, Tampa Bay; Milan Lucic, Boston; Patrick Marleau, San Jose; Andy McDonald, St. Louis; Brenden Morrow, Dallas; Rick Nash, Columbus; Corey Perry, Anaheim; Mike Richards, Philadelphia; Derek Roy, Buffalo; Joe Sakic, Colorado; Patrick Sharp, Chicago; Ryan Smyth, Colorado; Martin St. Louis, Tampa Bay; Eric Staal, Carolina; Jordan Staal, Pittsburgh; Joe Thornton, San Jose; Jonathan Toews, Chicago

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=433240

Gill Gone, Pens sign Mike Rupp.

Free Agency has heated up and now Hal Gill has signed with the Montreal Canadiens for 2 years worth $4.5 million.
On the Pens side of things, we have signed Forward Mike Rupp to a two year deal.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=433061

Also, Marian Hossa signed with the Chicago Blackhawks for 12 years and $62.4 million. I am guessing he thinks they have a great chance to win the Stanley Cup the next 12 years. All joking aside though, this may present some trouble for the Blackhawks next year when they have contracts to work out with their young stars. We will have to see how it plays out in the future.

Zigomanis not likely to return.

Many were hoping that Zigomanis could have been resigned and with news coming of the Craig Adams deal yesterday, many people's hopes were dashed. Though, still as of yesterday, there were some encouraging rumors still coming out about the possibility of signing Zigomanis. Now though, it appears by resigning Craig Adams, the Pens have made their choice and have gone with the cheaper option. Therefore, Zigomanis will not be returning to the Pens. The Pens would have liked to sign Zigomanis, but the cap-space is limited for the Pens and that leaves them in tough situations. I understand the money issue, but I would rather have Zigomanis than Adams. Zigomanis was a face-off specialist and when he was injured this past season, that is when the Pens woes began. This will be a loss for the Pens as they still do not have a player that is solid and consistent on fave-offs, but it is a loss we had to overcome this season and did so.

Also, yesterday the Pens made qualifying offers to 3 players: defenseman Ben Lovejoy, forward Tim Wallace and goaltender John Curry.

Orpik and Scuderi invited to USA Hockey Olympic Camp.

Two Pittsburgh Penguins, and some former members of the Pens as well, were invited to the USA Hockey Olympic Camp.
Both Brooks Orpik and Rob Scuderi have been invited to participate in the 2010 U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Orientation Camp next month. USA Hockey will hold the orientation camp from Aug. 17-19 at Seven Bridges Ice Arena in Woodbridge, Ill., a suburb of Chicago. The Olympic tournament runs from Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver.

Players invited:
Goaltenders: Ryan Miller, Jonathan Quick, Tim Thomas

Defensemen: Tom Gilbert, Tim Gleason, Ron Hainsey, Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson, Mike Komisarek, Paul Martin, Brooks Orpik, Brian Rafalski, Rob Scuderi, Ryan Suter, Ryan Whitney

Forwards: David Backes, David Booth, Dustin Brown, Dustin Byflugien, Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, Patrick Kane, Ryan Kesler, Phil Kessel, Jamie Langenbrunner, Ryan Malone, Mike Modano, Kyle Okposo, T.J. Oshie, Zach Parise, Joe Pavelski, Bobby Ryan, Paul Stastny


-pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=432251

Pens sign Guerin to 1-year deal.

The Penguins and Bill Guerin agreed to a one year deal yesterday worth $2 million. It is great to see Bill Guerin come back to the Pens. He added some valued veteran presence in the locker room down the stretch and was a great fit on the Pens team. He was a fan favorite as well and they have to like the pay cut he made to stay with the Pens. Billy Guerin said that once he came to Pittsburgh, he felt right here. Now his family will make the move and Guerin will remain a Penguin. It was clear to everyone how much everyone on the team got along with Guerin and the fans picked up on it as well. It seems everyone is happy to welcome back Bill Guerin!

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=432180

Pens sign Adams to deal.

The Penguins have signed forward Craig Adams to a 2 year contract worth $1.1 million.

While some worry what this contract means for Mike Zigomanis, it is believed that talks continued for both players this week and that Zigmonanis returning is still a possibility.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=432148

2009 Draft.

Since I was not present at the Draft, and I know the bare facts about the players selected, I will post the links to the Pens blog updates from the draft by Sam Kasan.

Draft day 1:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=431808



Draft day 2:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=431943

To vote for the Pens for the ESPYs.

Go to the link below to vote for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dan Bylsma, Sidney Crosby, and Evgeni Malkin! Lets help represent the NHL and the Pens in an award show that lacks recognition for hockey!

http://www.espys.tv/

Penguins up for several ESPYs.

Well, if any hockey fans actually watch the ESPYs, then they should be happy to hear some nominations, well if you're a Pens fan that is. The Pens team and several members of the team are up for nominations in this year's awards.


"The Pittsburgh Penguins magical 2009 Stanley Cup championship season has earned the club and some individuals on the team nominations for ESPN’s 17th annual award show, The ESPYs.

The Penguins as a team, head coach Dan Bylsma and centers Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin are up for awards.

The Penguins entire team has been nominated for the Best Team Award after winning the franchise’s third Stanley Cup title. If the Penguins win, they would be only the second NHL team to win the award and the first since the New York Rangers took home the honors in 1995. Adding a little hometown intrigue, the Penguins are competing with, among other teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers – whom won Super Bowl XLIII in February.

Bylsma is nominated for the Best Coach Award and could become the first NHL head coach to win the honor.
Crosby and Malkin are both up for the Best NHL Player Award. Crosby has taken that title home the past two years and could make it three in a row if he wins. It would be his third ESPY, making the first hockey player to receive three. A win for Malkin would be his first career ESPY.

The Penguins organization has claimed the most ESPYs in the Best NHL Player category by winning five. Along with Crosby’s two trophies, co-owner and Hall of Fame player Mario Lemieux has taken the honor on three occasions. "

- pittsburghpenguins.com By Sam Kasan.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=431696

Talbot on the rise.

This idea was suggested to me shortly after the Pens won the Stanley Cup. For humorous purpose only.
We all know how valuable Max Talbot was in the playoffs, especially in the Final, especially in game 7. We won game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final by a score of 2-1. Talbot scored both of those goals. No one needs to be reminded of that. Just think of what that credential can do for Max Talbot's acting career. We all love the A&L Motors commercials and just imagine what Game 7 will mean for Max Talbot now. Not only did he win the Stanley Cup, but now he can have his face everywhere. A&L Motors probably could not have been happier after game 7, after all, their commercial features the Game 7 star. Talk about Superstar treatment; Talbot will be receiving that, no doubt. This could lead to major endorsements. I can see the face on the cereal boxes, Talbot on the cover of every NHL video game, every sports magazine, booed by Philadelphia every time he brings his finger to his lips to silence them. Ok, who isn't booed in Philadelphia, but anyways... Talbot has catapulted himself into stardom and I think he is ready for it. Chicka Chicka yeah! Get used to that phrase because it will be adorned on thousands of posters along with Talbot raising the Stanley Cup.

Stanley Cup win had help from people no longer a part of the Pens.

A great article by Joe Starkey of the Tribune Review reminds us that it is not only the current members of the Pittsburgh Penguins organization and team that we should give credit to when winning this year's Stanley Cup. Starkey mentions Ryan and Greg Malone, Gary Roberts, Craig Patrick, Michel Therrien, among others. All the members that had a part in rebuilding the Pens and building through the draft deserve a great deal of credit for the product on the ice that won the Stanley Cup on June 12th. It took many years to get to where we are today as a team. Anyone who has had any effect on this team deserves some credit for this year's spectacular win.

Also, how great is it that Malone was contacting Starkey on his way to Colby Armstrong's wedding in Atlanta this past weekend. Malone said that the Penguins feel like a kind of family to him and though he may not get to be a part of this Stanley Cup win, he had an effect on the team and he was rooting for the Pens, like he has all his life. I am sure the former and current members of the Pens that were together at Colby's wedding celebrated the championship.

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/s_630435.html?source=rss&feed=8

Penguins 'Beard-a-thon' most successful.

The Pittsburgh Penguins had the most successful "Beard-a-thon" of all the teams in the playoffs, raising $113,541 for the Mario Lemieux Foundation. The Boston Bruins were second raising over $93,000 dollars and then the Carolina Hurricanes with raising a little over $55,000.
Thanks to all the players and fans who participated in this event and making the Pens the most successful team in the "Beard-a-thon." It should be that the Stanley Cup Champs have the most successful "Beard-a-thon."

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=426229

NHL Awards show tonight.

The annual NHL Awards show takes place tonight in Las Vegas, the first time it will be held there, and it begins at 7:30. We will find out if Malkin takes home more hardware than he has already received this season. He is up for the Hart Trophy and the Lester B. Pearson Award. Also, Sidney Crosby is up for the Mark Messier Leadership Award.

"For the first time, the NHL will have a fan-driven award, the Scotiabank NHL FAN FAV award. Among the 10 finalists for the honor are Iginla, Mason, Crosby, Luongo, Green and Ovechkin. Also up for the award are Calgary's Miikka Kiprusoff, Carolina's Eric Staal, New Jersey's Martin Brodeur and San Jose's Evgeni Nabokov."

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=425857&navid=DLNHLHome

Lemieux inducted into the Order of Quebec.

Today, Mario Lemieux was inducted into the Order of Quebec. The Order of Quebec is the province's highest honor.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=282131

Goligoski signs 3-year deal with Pens.

Today it was announced that the Penguins have signed defenseman Alex Goligoski to a 3 year contract.
Goligoski said it was an "easy decision" considering that he thinks the Pens will be a winning team for much of the future and he looks forward to being a part of that and wants to be here for a long time.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=425871

Pens draw huge crowd for victory Parade.

It is estimated that about 375, 000 people came to cheer on the Pens' Stanley Cup win yesterday for the victory parade in downtown Pittsburgh. Being one of them, I can say that it was a great atmosphere and one of pure excitement.

The parade wasn't the only thing drawing big crowds. NBC says that Game 7 between the Red Wings and the Penguins was the most watched NHL game in 36 years. It drew about 8 million viewers and was the most watched program during that time slot Friday night.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions.

What is there to say other than Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins on being the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions. They were the underdog to most people. They didn't have a chance against Detroit's experience and skills. Well, we proved all those who doubted us wrong. Some say that Detroit was not prepared for a loss, that the Red Wings' website was not even prepared for a loss. Well, I hope they thought of something clever quickly, because the Red Wings lost. Yes, they lost in the Stanley Cup Final in game 7 in Joe Louis Arena to the better team: the Pittsburgh Penguins.
There are no words to describe how happy I was. No words to describe the feeling of winning, to know that we proved all the people wrong who doubted us when we were in 10th place, who doubted us in every series we faced, the feeling of winning and seeing Hossa with the same look he had on his face last year as a Penguin. Be careful what you say Hossa, because you left the team that would give you the best chance to win a Stanley Cup. If he stayed, who knows what would have happened. I am happy he signed with Detroit and I hope he resigns with Detroit. He had to know that by saying what he did last summer that he would have a target on him all season and he did. The nice part was watching his words come back and bite him. He says he doesn't second guess his decision, but we all know that he is upset and depressed, losing the Cup two years in a row. Not that any of the Pens from last year and this year know what he is going through because they won and they got to parade that Cup around on his home ice.

I remember reading so much this season that so many people in the media, in the hockey world and so many others, doubted the Pens during their mid-season drop in play. I, too, once thought it would be a long shot for the Pens to make it to the playoffs, but I never lost hope, I never stopped believing and with a new coach, the Pens were revitalized and created a million stories of perseverance and hope. They overcame odds, they pushed themselves to 4th in the Conference by the start of playoffs. Two months later, they finished beating all odds, and they were still all against them, and they won the Stanley Cup. The feat that so many said they would never achieve this season. I want to say Congratulations one more time and Thank you as well. This Pens team gave me memories and stores that will last a lifetime. And the best part, I think they have quite a few more brilliant stories in them to create for the future.

It all comes down to tonight.

The entire season, every game, every loss, every point, every injury, every goal, every save and every playoff game has lead to tonight, game 7 tonight in Detroit. The Pens know exactly what is at stake, they have waited their entire leaves to have this opportunity. Whoever wins tonight, wins it all. Everyone know the story lines. The Pens want revenge for last year's defeat against the same Detroit Red Wings, the Pens are considered the under dogs, the whole Hossa storyline, but none of these matters. The only thing that is essential now is what happens in game 7 tonight, what happens that will determine who will raise Lord Stanley's Cup above their head tonight.
The numbers are against the Pens because they are not home, the odds have been against them and people have counted them out, but we will see who prevails tonight.
I don't look at the fact that each team in this series has won only at home, almost all the numbers go out the window, because this is game 7. A game where every player will give everything they have, leave everything out on the ice, empty their tanks, make sure that no matter what the outcome, they can not say to themselves that they could have done better. To me, that sounds like a whole new game and an exciting one for sure.

It is the hardest trophy in all of sports to earn and here we are in a critical and exciting game 7 that does not come along too often in Finals, and the winner takes all. The winner will have their dreams come true, while the other team leaves disappointed and unsatisfied and bitter memories that will last a lifetime. We know all about that, it happened to us last year. We want a different outcome, we want that picture perfect finish, the picture where Sidney Crosby raises the Stanley Cup and passes it on to his teammates in Joe Louis Arena.

Sykora doubtful for Game 7.

Petr Sykora played his first game in the Finals against the Red Wings last night and it could have been his last as well.

Sykora blocked a shot in the second period of Game 6 last night and was receiving treatment for his ankle today. It is said that he is doubtful to play in Game 7.

Pens win game 6, force game 7.

The Pens knew what was on the line, knew that if they made any big mistake or small one for that matter, their season could be over. That would explain why Fleury played a spectacular game and had some assistance from Rob Scuderi who kept the puck out of the net last night as well. That would explain why Staal's line became a force last night, scoring both the goals. One from Staal and the other from Kennedy. We need the secondary scoring and we got it last night, which resulted in the 2-1 Pens win.
The Pens now move on to Detroit for game 7. The Pens have gone to a game 7 this year, in the series against the Washington Capitals, and they embarrassed the Capitals with a 6-2 victory. However, I don't think this game 7 will have the same result. No matter how much I wish it would. This is the Stanley Cup Final, game 7, where the entire prize is up for grabs. What most have waited their entire lives for, worked hard in the off season and all season long for, it comes down to this game 7. I don't think the Pens will need to be reminded of the motivation and neither does Detroit, they both know what is at stake. Should be a game to remember.

Tonight can be make or break.

It is the absolute definition of desperation hockey. Facing elimination in the Stanley Cup Finals, the Pens know they have to be desperate for a win and earn the right to force a game 7. Both teams will be determined to achieve something tonight. One team, the Stanley Cup, the other, a win to make their dreams of hoisting the Stanley Cup possible. I know the Pens will give it all they have, and though we are in the same situation as last year, the Pens are more confident. Instead of coming away from an enormous triple overtime win, the Pens are looking to redeem themselves after a bad loss to the Red Wings, giving them even more motivation to show what they can do and leave it all out on the ice. Though, I believe the Stanley Cup is enough motivation for anyone. It is what every NHLer dreams of growing up, what every player and team strive to lift at the end of a season. Once you reach the final, you never know when you will be back, you have to take the opportunity and do your best. Sounds like more than enough motivation to get the Pens ready to keep their dreams alive tonight.

Sykora in for game 6?

Petr Sykora has been rumored as a possible addition to the lineup for a couple days now, but we will see tonight whether or not he will play. Bylsma said today that it will be a game time decision.
Sykora scored the most memorable goal of last year's Stanley Cup Finals, the winning goal in the third overtime of Game 5. Sykora says he will do the same routine as he has been doing and will be ready to play if he gets that opportunity.

Gates open early for Game 6.

"For the convenience of fans attending Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final Tuesday night, gates at Mellon Arena will open at 6:15 p.m. Game time is 8 p.m.

Popular anthem singer Jeff Jimerson and his band, Airborne, will provide pre-game entertainment beginning at 5:30 p.m. outside Gate 3. "

-pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=425050

Refocus for Game 6.

The Pens would like to forget Game 5, a 5-0 loss in the Stanley cup Finals, but it happened. Though, now the Pens are just focused on getting back on track in Game 6 in order to keep their dreams alive. For any of those Pens fans or people who just start watching in the Playoffs are thinking the Pens are doomed or think Garon should be in net for Game 6, you are mistaken. The Pens learned from last year's final a lesson that no team in the NHL wants to learn. They lost last year and have struggled, worked hard, sacrificed, and earned this chance they have to redeem themselves in this year's Stanley Cup Final. They will not go down without a fight and they will be back at Mellon Arena to prove themselves, hopefully.
As for Fleury's play in game 5, you can not really blame him. The Pens had a meltdown, and were taking penalties, 3 of Detroit's 5 goals were power play goals. Fleury wants to prove himself. He has had to do it throughout this entire playoffs. He has been criticized and then afterwards, he rose to a level that people were praising him the next day. I am sure Fleury will be even more motivated to turn in a spectacular performance tomorrow night.
I believe in my Pens and I know they want to come out strong and play their best tomorrow night... now they just have to or else their season is over and they will yet again see Detroit skate around with the Stanley Cup on Mellon Arena ice. An image that will never leave my head, and I assure one that will never leave last year's Pens' team minds either. They have to use that motivation, use it tomorrow night and keep going for their dream.

Pens' "Beard-a-thon" a success.

The "Beard-a-thon" has already raised over $91,000 for the Mario Lemieux Foundation and counting. There are about 1,712 fans involved growing beards in the "Beard-a-thon."

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=424870

Pens get ready to face Datsyuk.

While there is no confirmation that Pavel Datsyuk will be back in the lineup tonight, the Pens have prepared for his return, noting that it really will not alter much of how the Pens play, they will just have to be aware of him on the ice. Apparently, Detroit will also have Kris Draper back in the lineup tonight as well.
Datsyuk coming in will most likely mean less ice time for Henrik Zetterberg, who led all forwards in ice time from game 3 with over 24 minutes.
The Pens believe their system has been successful so far and are not going to make huge alterations because of Datsyuk's return. They acknowledge his skill and understand how big of an addition he is and they will play against him like they do everyone else on the Detroit team.

Game 4 Tonight.

The Penguins and Red Wings meet in Game 4 tonight at Mellon Arena. While it is being said in almost every article and by most people that this series is shaping up to look a lot like last year's final, the Pens are hoping to change that tonight. Last year they lost game 4, this year the Pens will be striving to get their second win of the series and go back to Detroit tied 2-2 in the series.
I would love to see Crosby break out with some goals in this series. He has been surrounded by Zetterberg nearly the whole time he is on the ice , so it has been difficult, but I am hoping that he finds his way around that, or him, and puts up the numbers he has been in all the previous rounds. It is a lot easier said than done, but I think he has the talent and the motivation to do what he has already done this postseason.

Pens know importance of Game 4.

Last year, the Pens won game 3 too, after being down 2-0. Last year though, the Pens lost game 4, putting themselves in a 3-2 deficit in the series which is hard to come back from and last year didn't happen. Therefore, the Pens know how much of a difference it makes being down 3-1 or being tied 2-2. The Pens will strive for the latter. The Pens are more confident this year and know the importance of Game 4 and will hopefully come out their strongest yet. It will be one more step if we win tomorrow night and then we are back in Detroit once again for Game 5. I don't think anyone forgets last year's Game 5. The Pens are well aware of the situation and are determined to have a different outcome in game 4 and hopefully the series.

Pens win Game 3.

The Pens cut the series against the Red Wings in half last night with their 4-2 win at home. The Pens did not play as strong of a game as they did in Games 1 and 2, especially the 2nd period, but pulled off a win last night. The win was in large part due to Max Talbot and the power play. The power play was 2 for 3 last night and Max Talbot had 2 goals. Sergei Gonchar also had a good night, getting what became the winning goal on the power play and added an assist. Malkin had 3 assists, to add to his lead in post season points at 33 now.
The Pens knew after game 2 that this series was not over and with last night's win, it showed that it is not over. The Pens know they have to be better in game 4 tomorrow night if they want to win because despite the win last night, it was not their best performance.

Game 3 Tonight.

Being down 0-2 may not look promising to many people, and it really isn't, however, the Pens have not played terrible games. They have kept up with Detroit and just need to work on a few little things to be a little more successful, like getting more people in front of the net for rebounds. The best part is that the Pens have not given up on their system and are not frustrated by their current situation. Last year, in the same 0-2 hole, the Pens came back to Pittsburgh scrambling on what to do to beat the Red Wings. This year they know what it takes, and nobody said it would be easy, and the players know that. The Pens need to stick to their system and know that things will eventually go in their favor. They are not going to give up easily, not at all. These Pens know what is on the line and know what it felt like to lost last year. They will do everything to avoid that again this year...everything.

Crosby Finalist for Messier Leadership Award.

Sidney Crosby was honored today by being named a finalist for the Messier Leadership award and the winner will be announced at the NHL Awards Ceremony taking place June 18th.

"Boston’s Zdeno Chara, Pittsburgh’s Sidney Crosby and Calgary’s Jarome Iginla are the three finalists for the 2008-09 Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award presented by Bridgestone, the National Hockey League announced today.

The award recognizes an individual as a superior leader in hockey and as a contributing member of society. It honors an individual who leads by positive example through on-ice performance, motivation of team members and a dedication to community activities and charitable causes. "

Full story:
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=424649

Both Games 3 and 4 "whiteouts."

Games 3 and 4, Tuesday and Thursday at 8:00 p.m. will be whiteouts. White t-shirts and white rally towels will be given to each fan upon entering, like usual.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=424529

Familiar territory for the Pens.

The Penguins find themselves in familiar territory being down 2-0 in the Stanley Cup Final to the Detroit Red Wings. They found themselves in the same hole just last season against the same team after the first two games. However, the similarities really stop there. Last year, the Pens had not scored a goal and were being outplayed in almost every aspect of the game. This year the Pens have scored, yes it may only be two goals, but most of Detroit's 6 goals were lucky. The Pens have matched the Red Wings in most parts of play and improved on several things in game 2 from game 1, like the power play and faceoffs.
Also, the Pens have faced this situation already this post season. None of us forget the series against the Washington Capitals just about a month ago. The Pens were down 2-0 and came back strong. Of course, they are different teams, but the Pens have the confidence to know they can overcome this. They are playing better than last year and the Pens still took the Red Wings to 6 games last year.
Now, the Pens are playing better than last year and are confident that if they continue playing their style of game that things will start to go their way. The Pens are happy with the way they have played the last two games, things just have to start going in the Pens' favor. They will be back home tomorrow to try and shift the series, and the important thing is that the Pens are confident in their system, whereas last year, they felt like they were standing around and watching. Anyone who has watched the past two games can not say the Pens have been just standing around, now its time to get a more positive result for our effort.

Tickets for games 3 and 4 on sale tomorrow.

Approximately 1,000 tickets for each of the first two home games of the Stanley Cup Final will go on sale Friday at 10 a.m., the Pittsburgh Penguins announced today.

These will be for Games 3 and 4 of the Cup Final series between the Penguins and Detroit Red Wings – to be played Tuesday, June 2 and Thursday, June 4 at Mellon Arena. Both games will start at 8 p.m.

- pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=424100

Stanley Cup Final will be rematch of last year's.

Almost everyone knew it was going to happen, as soon as the Penguins and Detroit Red Wings took control of their Conference Finals series. Questions have already been asked about how it would feel for the Pens to face the Red Wings again this year; Marian Hossa already asked how it would feel playing against the team he was playing for at this time last season. Now it is official, it will be the Pens against the Red Wings for the second straight year. Detroit beat the Chicago Blackhawks last night in overtime with a score of 2-1 and won the series 4-1. Now these questions take on real meaning. The Pens gained experience from last year's tough loss in the Final to the Red Wings and I am sure this year they are having some feelings that lead towards wanting revenge. As for Marian Hossa, well he said a matter of days ago that it would be "interesting" to play against the Pens in the Finals this season.
Well, we will see Saturday, the day of the first game of this series, what it will be like to face the Red Wings again, to see if last year's experience taught the Pens what they need to do to be more successful. Or if the Red Wings learned last season just exactly how to stop the Penguins. Though, this is not the same Penguins lineup and many have said that last year's lineup was better, but we have many of the same faces who went through the heartbreaking loss last year to Detroit and many of those people will use that as motivation to never feel that pain again. We will see what the result is and see what last year taught us enough to change or if it will be another repeat. One thing I can say for sure, I hate repeats.

Stanley Cup Final opponent could be known tonight.

The Penguins know they are in the Stanley Cup Finals for the second straight year, but their opponent is unknown at this time. However, the team the will face the Pens in the Final could be determined tonight. That is, if the Detroit Red Wings, who lead the Western Conference Finals 3-1, win tonight in Game 5, the Pens will face the Red Wings again. Though, if Chicago pulls off a win tonight, the series will continue.

Pens headed to the Stanley Cup Finals again.

The Pens became the first team since the 1984 Edmonton Oilers to make it back to the Stanley Cup Finals after losing in the finals a year before, with their completion of the sweep against the Hurricanes.
Most fans knew the Pens could do it. However, when they thought that, it was either right after the final or the beginning of this season. The Pens faced a number of struggles to get to this point. The Pens looked like they would not make the Playoffs for a time this season, they fired their coach and brought in a new one and turned the season around and worked hard to earn their #4 seed in the Eastern Conference, coming up from the 10th spot. Then most people said the Pens were lucky to make the playoffs and would not make it far into the playoffs. Well, to be honest, I never really believed those people. I knew that the group of players on the Pens team were determined to change the outcome of last year's run. I knew that the Pens knew what it took to make it far into the playoffs and the hard work and sacrifice that is needed. Yes, I was nervous before each round, and I would be nervous during times in each round (Ok, not so much against the Hurricanes), but I never lost hope in my Pens and I did believe they could come out of each round and make it once again to the Finals. Sure, it's easy to say that now, once it's guaranteed with their sweep last night of the Canes, but I never would have said it earlier out loud because I am superstitious and I would not want to say one thing that can be a jinx.

The Pens overcame adversity this season: a coaching change, injuries, falling behind and a late push to make it to where they are today, and these challenges, among others, helped them achieve their current success. Yes, the Pens last season had gone through some adversity, but now this year's Pens can add some extra motivation to the list going into the Finals: The Pens never want to be in the situation they were in last season's Finals again. Just like the commercial shown earlier this season where Crosby said he never wanted to be in that picture again, a picture from last year's Finals against Detroit, the entire Pens team does not want to be in that situation. We will see if that motivation is enough to achieve their ultimate goal- raising Lord Stanley's Cup.

Eastern Conference Champions.

For the second straight year, the Pittsburgh Penguins are the Eastern Conference Champions and have earned a spot in the Stanley Cup Finals. The Pens completed their series with the Carolina Hurricanes last night with a sweep, winning game 4, 4-1.
Sidney Crosby, changing routine, touched the Prince of Wales trophy after the win last night. It was not that much of a surprise. He didn't touch it last season and we all know the outcome. Crosby, being superstitious, changed his strategy and touched the trophy as well as his teammates to hopefully bring luck and a different outcome to this year's Stanley Cup Finals.

Zigomanis participates in a full practice on Monday.

Yesterday, Mike Zogomanis went through a full practice in the afternoon. He practiced on a line with Eric Godard and Petr Sykora. Though Zigomanis went through a full practice and a rumor says that he could be taken off of IR in a couple days, it is not sure whether he will be considered to be put back in the lineup.

Canes on brink of elimination.

Going into tonight's game 4 in Carolina, the Pens hold a 3-0 lead in the series. That means, of course, that if the Hurricanes don't win tonight, their season is over. Which also means that the Canes will be battling to keep their season alive tonight, so expect their greatest effort. The Canes know what is at stake and therefore have all the reason in the world to bring their best and prove what they can do.
However, the Pens are most certainly aware of this revelation and know they need to come prepared to face the Canes' best effort. The Pens want to finish them off tonight and need to give it their all to come out with a victory as well. The Pens want to make it back to the Stanley Cup Final. They are determined to do so and want to be guaranteed a spot in the Finals as soon as possible.
Two teams battling for something, putting everything they have into a game, to end up with keeping a dream alive. All they need is a win. Let's see if desperation to keep a season alive, or the desperation to return to the Cup Finals all that much sooner for a chance at Lord Stanley's Cup, will prevail. Should be a great game, where opportunities begin... or end.

Pens vs. Canes. Game 2 Tonight.

The Pens seem to be going with the same lineup as they did for game 1, dressing 7 defensemen once again. Well, seeing as the 7th defensemen was Philippe Boucher and he happened to just add a goal and an assist in game 1, even with less than ten minutes of ice time, Dan Bylsma seems to think it is a good plan. If it produces a win like in Game 1, who can argue with it? We will see if the final decision is to dress 7 defensemen again.

The Pens know they did not play their best in Game 1, so they will hopefully come out stronger tonight and keep their momentum. The Pens had a strong first period in Game 1, but did not really keep that strength going into the later periods, luckily Fleury kept us in the game. Therefore, the Pens need to keep the momentum and the pressure up. The Canes have lost game 1 in each of their series so far and have come back to win game 2. Let's stop that trend tonight.

Game 2 a "Whiteout."

Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Carolina Hurricanes will be a "whiteout." There will be t-shirts and towels given to fans in attendance.

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=423351

Reirden named head coach of Baby Pens.

Todd Reirden has agreed to a multi year contract to be head coach of the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins. He was serving as interim head coach ever since Bylsma was called up to be coach of the Pens on February 18th.


http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=423313

Status of both Ruutu and Cole unknown.

Tuomo Ruutu and Erik Cole were both injured in Game 1 last night. Ruutu did not return and it is believed that he could be held off the ice for a few days with a groin injury. Cole was hurt after a collision with Matt Cooke, and what Paul Maurice, the coach of the Hurricanes, described as a "knee-on-knee" hit after the game. Cole returned to the game, but was expected to be reevaluated today. Cole is expected to be back on the ice Wednesday though.

Ryan Malone rooting for the Pens.

I don't find it a surprise that Ryan Malone is rooting for the Pens in the post season. He began his career here and grew up here rooting for the Pens. It should not come as a surprise to anyone that he is rooting for the Pens, even if he did sign the large deal with Tampa Bay. His rights were traded to the Lightning though. While he acknowledges that maybe now he would have waited to see if Hossa signed with the Pens before he did anything, he says he does not regret anything. I shouldn't assume, but I am sure there is a part of Ryan Malone that wishes he were still a member of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He had great friends here and he had to live through a tough year with the Lightning struggling and now the Pens are in the Eastern Conference Final. I am sure he would still love to be playing for a chance to win the Cup, who wouldn't?
There have even been rumors that Malone has asked to come back to Pittsburgh. I don't know if these rumors are true at all, but who knows?

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=423238

Pens win 3-2, lead series 1-0.

The Pens played a strong first period in which they scored two quick goals and Fleury made some great saves to jump start a 3-2 win over the Canes. Boucher and Satan were goal scorers for the Pens last night, making them their first of the playoffs, and not the players the Canes were worrying about before this series started. However, it has been said so many times how important secondary scoring is in the playoffs. Without secondary scoring last night, who knows what the outcome may have been.

Marc Andre Fleury was spectacular in goal last night, quieting all those critics of his lately, as he made some spectacular saves. He kept the Pens in the game and closed the door late in the game to keep the Canes from tying it up.

Two Carolina Hurricanes players were hurt during the game: Erik Cole and Tuomu Ruutu. Ruutu never returned, but Cole was able to finish.

Pens recall players from WBS.

This past weekend the Pens called up 5 Baby Pens players: forwards Dustin Jeffrey, Christopher Minard and Jeff Taffe; defenseman Ben Lovejoy; and goaltender John Curry. The Baby Pens were recently eliminated from the playoffs.

Pens begin Eastern Conference Finals tonight against Canes.

The Pens take on the Carolina Hurricanes tonight at Mellon Arena, beginning the Eastern Conference Finals. Most say there is no hatred at this point between these two teams, that it may take a little while before animosity between the two teams comes alive. Well, no, the Canes are not our rival the Philadelphia Flyers that we already got rid of, and no they do not offer a rivalry between two players who are battling out for the title to be the best like the Washington Capitals offered us, and we of course got rid of them as well. However, this series does have sibling rivalry, with the likes of both Eric and Jordan Staal. While they play differently, who knows, maybe Jordan will raise his game to another level in this competition. Though, this may be the only evident rivalry at this point in time, besides the Brooks Orpik and Erik Cole one, I have no worries that the Pens and Canes will develop a hatred for one another, that could only come from versing an opponent in the playoffs. That's just how the playoffs work. So, let the series begin!

Next round opponent will be determined tonight.

The Pens have made it to the Eastern Conference Finals but do not know as of yet who they will be playing. That fate will be determined tonight when the Boston Bruins host the Carolina Hurricanes in a game 7 matchup. Another exciting series, the Bruins and Hurricanes game tonight should be an exciting matchup.

FSN once again sets new record in ratings.

Well, it may be getting a little old hearing that the Pens-Caps series has broken another record, the record they probably previously set, for the highest rated NHL game on any FSN network, but I am hear to report it once again. Last night's game 7 received a 24.97 rating. However, from 9:15 to 9:30, the game peaked at a 31.4 rating.

The game was the most-watched program in the Pittsburgh market on Wednesday night, beating out CBS’s Criminal Minds (12.7HH), CBS’s CSI: NY (12.3HH), FOX’s American Idol (11.01HH) and ABC’s Lost, season finale (7.4HH).

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=422769

Pens finish off Caps, move onto Eastern Conference Finals.

I did not expect that. Definitely did not expect the outcome of last night's game 7. With a series going to 7 games and when the previous 6 were pretty much all tight games and 3 overtimes, who would have seen a 6-2 Pens win. Who would have seen a 5-0 lead at one point in this game? Well, I didn't, but that's not to say that I was not thrilled when it happened. After Fleury's incredible save on Ovechkin in the first, I felt the confidence building and then after Crosby scored on the power play, even better and then... Craig Adams scored 8 seconds later, and I was ecstatic. The game was swayed in our favor most of the rest of the way and after every goal we scored, I was that much happier. The Pens finished off the Capitals in great fashion last night in their game 7.

This series has been hyped as one of the best because of the two teams and the players and how exciting and tight the games were, but last night must have been a disappointment to those who were looking for one of those game 7s that the winner is not determined until the waning moments of the third period or even an overtime period. However, last night was in no way a disappointment to me or any other Pens fan out there. We saw the Pens solve the young goaltender Varlamov who had been stumping the Pens in some games and eventually he was pulled. No offense to the young goaltender, he did a phenomenal job in the playoffs this year, until, that is, last night, but it was a great feeling to me to see him making his way to the bench after the Pens 4th goal. For the mere fact that it was like an item we could check off a checklist in order to win this series: Solve Varlamov. Check. We did more than that, we took him out of the game. It took us to game 7 to do it, but as long as we did it and in game 7 it happened to feel that much sweeter too.

So, thanks Pens for an exciting series and we'll see who we play next!

FSN sets New Record.

"Monday night's telecast of the 2009 NHL Round Two Game 6 between the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins registered a 24.2 average rating, according to Nielsen Media Research.

The telecast, viewed by more than 277,800 households in the Pittsburgh DMA, was the most-watched NHL game ever on FSN Pittsburgh and the highest rated NHL game for any FSN regional sports network.

The game was the most-watched program in the Pittsburgh market on Monday night, beating out such programs as ABC's Dancing with the Stars and CBS's CSI: Miami.
The previous record holder was Saturday's 4-3 overtime Penguins win in Game 5, which recorded a 21.4 average rating. FSN will televise Game 7 on Wednesday."

-pittsburghpostgazette.com

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/09132/969580-100.stm

Gonchar skates at optional practice today.

Gonchar skated today at an optional skate, but that does not necessarily mean he is close to game action. Bylsma has said that it is still a day-to-day evaluation.
Gonchar said today, "I have to wait and see how my body reacts to it. It's going to be a game-time decision. I don't want to say anything else. It's too early. I'm waiting until tomorrow and then we'll make a decision."

Pens lose in overtime, force Game 7.

Two games had gone into overtime this series, and the Pens had won both of them. Maybe that made some people confident that we could make it three last night. Perhaps some thought that the Pens could not get that lucky with a series of such tight games, win 3 overtimes in one series. Well, I was neither of those. I try to keep my thoughts positive and never look out to expect any outcome. If I had thought the Pens would win last night in overtime, I would have been even more disappointed than I am and that is hard to imagine. If I had thought that the Pens could not be that lucky to win a third one, then I would have blamed myself for jinxing the Pens and causing them the loss.
Well, the Pens lost in overtime 5-4. They now head back to Washington to play game 7. The Pens out shot the Caps once again and had an advantage in shots after almost every period. The Pens even scored on 2 out of 5 power play chances. It wasn't enough though. Now, all we can do is look to game 7 and concentrate on that game. If both teams weren't desperate before, they sure are now.

Gonchar's status still the same.

Gonchar is still listed as day-to-day with his injury. Most say a game-time decision is Gonchar's status, however, he did not skate today and most reports that I have heard say he will needs weeks to recover. But, this is playoff hockey and who knows? I know we will probably not see Gonchar tonight.

As for the hit that has caused Gonchar's absence, it is tough to see. I knew that no disciplinary action would be taken because it is Ovechkin. Of course, he can say he led with his shoulder, but what hit first: His knee going into Gonchar's knee. That would have been all the proof I needed, but it is now in the past and we have to focus on the present. Which happens to have the Pens ahead in the series 3-2. The best revenge the Pens can have against the Caps and Ovechkin with his hit, is to win.

Good news for the Pens.

Forbes magazine came out with great news for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

"The Pittsburgh Penguins have the fastest-growing team brand in the National Hockey League and one of the fastest-growing team brands in all of professional sports, according to a Forbes Magazine analysis published this month. "

"The Forbes analysis values a team’s brand as the 'portion of a team’s overall value that is derived from their name, as opposed to their market and league.' The magazine said the value of Penguins’ brand has grown by 88 percent over the past three seasons. The Penguins will record their 113th straight sellout tonight, and the team recently signed a naming rights deal with Consol Energy for the new Consol Energy Center. The Penguins have the most-visited NHL team website in the United States, set a record for local television ratings on FSN Pittsburgh for the second straight year, and continue to establish new standards for suite sales and sponsorship sales.' "
-pittsburghpenguins.com
http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=422360


Also, FSN Pittsburgh recorded a 21.38 rating for Saturday's Pens game vs. the Caps. It is the highest rated game ever on FSN Pittsburgh and the highest rated NHL game on any FSN regional sports network. Friday's game received a 19.26 rating and became the 3rd highest rated game on FSN Pittsburgh.
This shows how exciting the Pens are and how excited the city is with their hockey team!

http://penguins.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=422353

Pens lead series 3-2 going into tonight's contest.

The Caps were down 3-1 last series to the New York Rangers. I don't need to tell anyone who won the series. The Caps have rebounded before and they will be desperate tonight. Hopefully the Pens can match their desperation and come out with a victory. The Pens need to continue their control of the puck and do what has been successful in all of their wins this series. I expect tonight to be an exciting game, as both teams should be desperate.

Once again, the game tonight is a white-out and it is also available on the Big Screen outside.

Malkin steps up and delivers in game 3.

Malkin had come under some criticism for his play in the first two games of the series against the Caps. I even said that Malkin needed to step it up. I knew he could do it and that is what he proved last night. Malkin was a force on the ice every time he went over the boards. He scored the only power play goal for the Pens and it was the goal to pull the Pens in the lead late in the 3rd. Malkin recorded a game-high total of shots with 9 and had nearly 30 minutes of ice time last night (overtime included.) The crowd did not let Malkin's hard work go unnoticed as they had Geno cheers going and MVP chants filling Mellon Arena. He was named number one star of the game and earned that position. He was dominant and and a force to be reckoned with. All he needs to do now is continue to play the way he did last night.

Pens win Game 3 in Overtime.

The Pens avoided slipping into a 3-0 hole with their 3-2 overtime win last night against the Washington Capitals. This game saw some different goal scorers for the Pens. Ruslan Fedotenko had the first goal to put the Pens in a 1-1 tie with the Caps after Ovechkin scored early in the game with an easy goal. The 2nd goal coming late in the 3rd period and on the power play and was scored by Evgeni Malkin, who had a strong game last night and had the crowd erupting in Geno cheers and MVP chants. It looked like Malkin's goal would stand as the winner, but unfortunately, the Caps tied with less than 2 minutes left in the game and it was sent into overtime. However, a little over the halfway mark of overtime, Kris Letang put the puck behind Varlamov and gave the Pens the crucial win. Letang, who was questionable to even play in the game because of a shoulder injury suffered in game 2, became the game hero.

The Pens outshot the Caps and out-performed the Caps most of the game. Though the game was still as close as it was. The Pens power play was not successful until Malkin's power play goal late in the third. So, the power play is still in need of improvement. The Pens need to get to the net and beat Varlamov, which seems to be hard to do. The Pens need to crash the net more. If the Pens keep playing the way they did last night, things look good, and if the power play improves, the Pens would be that much better.