What a glorious sports morning for those whose shrines are adorned in the Black and Gold. The Pittsburgh Penguins advance to the Eastern Conference Finals for the second straight season by demolishing the upstart Washington Capitals with a 6-2 margin. For those that missed the game, let me add that the lopsided score wasn't nearly indicative of how over matched and outplayed the Caps were.
For anyone who doubted just who the best player in the series, and in the NHL for that matter, is, well, it's pretty clear now. He wears an 87, and more importantly a "C". Sid Crosby was everything that a Conn Smythe candidate should be last night, as he spearheaded an early wave of high tempo/high skill hockey that was simply too much of a good thing for the Red Wave. Although Crosby led an assault that any infantry general would be proud of, the signature play of the game (and series), was the highlight reel worthy snare that MAF pulled against Alex Ovechkin on a breakaway early in the contest. That save was the first puff of gas released from what became a rapidly deflating balloon, otherwise known as the Capitals' effort. In the end, the true hero was coach Dan Bylsma, who simply had his team more focused and more determined for the supposedly epic struggle on enemy grounds. The Penguins' early onslaught not only silenced the hostile mob of red clad faithful, it actually stunned them. Just like the series clincher against the Flyers, Bylsma inspired his soldiers to play like killers, and the results were impressive. The fact that his team played at such a high tempo in an emotionally charged Game 7, without committing a single penalty, is a true statement to the poise that was displayed both on the ice and behind the bench. It's truly amazing that in three short months Bylsma has steered this once floundering vessel from the purgatory of a missed playoffs to the warm waters of the final four.
3 comments:
Great game! Go Pens!!! AO can suck it.
Crosby is out of this world right now. He got close to tasting a championship last year and now that they are in the playoffs - his drive has gone off the charts.
Those who know me - know that I feel Geno is the most talented Penguin. I enjoy his style of play a bit more - and when he is on fire - he reminds me of the big guy who now resides in the owner's box.
But M.O.D. (man-o-day - remember that one MP?)...Crosby has been unconcious with his play. Passing, shooting, backchecking, forechecking and just plain old checking - the dude is a leader. He goes out there and shows everyone on the ice how to get it done. I am really impressed!
I watched the post-game interviews and to a man, the Pens acknowledged what 87 brings to the table. He is the leader and everyone else is a faithful follower.
Can't wait for round 3!
MOD what a series! We will remember that one for a long time to come.
87 was such a stud in that seris it was crazy. I think he gets better when a guy like AO is on the ice. Hopefully he can keep it up without someone else who people think is the best player in hockey on the other side.
What I liked most was he was so willing to do the hard work in front of the net. taking shots to have a chance at a rebound. It paid off huge.
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