There have been great players in the history of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Hall of Famers. Legends. Icons. And now Sidney Crosby is king of the mountain. He is the most important person in Penguins franchise history — not just the best player, but the standard by which everything else is measured. While I still think of this as Mario’s team, Crosby has been a strong constant over the last 20+ years. he arrived with the future of the franchise on his shoulders. At the time, the Penguins were still fighting for relevance and stability. Within a few seasons, they were contenders. Within four years, they were champions.
When the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs share the ice, the game is never just about two points. It’s about identity. It’s about expectations — and right now, neither team is living up to them.
Both clubs sit in similar territory in the standings; Surviving on reputation, more than results.
The Penguins are lingering near the basement of the conference, keeping uncomfortable company with Philadelphia, the Rangers, and the Blue Jackets. Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs are “hangin’ out the passenger side,” grouped with Buffalo, Ottawa, and Tampa Bay, still searching for consistency.
Pittsburgh did manage to scrape out a win against the Canadiens, and fittingly, it took overtime to get it done.
Bad Manager is out n ’bout this season, looking to reward good little boys n girls.
Against Toronto, Pittsburgh’s success often hinges on controlling the middle of the ice. The Leafs want space. When Toronto establishes speed and gets Pittsburgh chasing, it becomes a long night. Special teams are always a subplot. Toronto’s power play can punish weaker defenses.
Goaltending. Likely it will be Skinner in net. I would still like to give him some time to settle in. You’ve been constipated longer than he’s been a Guin.
Birdie, stop it.
When these teams meet, the question isn’t who has more skill — it’s who plays with more purpose.
If we can keep momentum win another game, it sets the table perfectly for the return of the Russian Bear.
Oh, and Merry Christmas, You Filth Animal.
Yeah, its close enough.
LGP