The nice thing about the Pens' losses lately is that they have been on the first day of a back to back set. There's nothing better than being able to correct your mistakes and get a big win before that losing feeling sets in. (Note: I shall retract this statement if we lose tonight since we are off until Thursday.) Tonight the Penguins (41-23-8, 90 pts, 4th in the East) will head to "Hockeytown" to play the Wings (43-21-8, 94 pts, 2nd in the West).
This was a popular pick for the Stanley Cup Finals in the preseason, so perhaps we will get out Crosby-less preview of it tonight. Both teams are solid for the playoffs and will be clinching spots in a matter of days, but Detroit is facing pressure from San Jose and the Penguins from Boston to keep their spots.
Detroit is going to be without Pavel Datsyuk, Johan Franzen, and Jiri Hudler tonight, so they surely will have no sympathy for our oft-injured lineup.
Speaking of injuries, here is a fun way to handle one on the ice (via penguins.nhl.com and nhlnetwork):
http://video.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=35&id=103869
The big news of the day that we are waiting on is the Matt Cooke suspension. He had an in person hearing at 1:30pm today which means he's likely getting 5 games or more. My prediction: the rest of the season. As such, Arron Asham will return to the lineup tonight. Additionally, Brent Johnson gets the start in net after Fleury played yesterday.
The Pens just held an optional skate today, so I'm not sure what to expect with the lines. Instead, I'll give you an injury report:
- Crosby has continued skating and working out off of the ice without any issues. Things are looking positive with him, but still no timetable.
- Letestu is out for roughly a week with a lower body injury.
- Tangradi has been cleared to skate again.
- Comrie is practicing with the team finally, but Bylsma has said that he has a lot of strength to build up.
- Oprik is skating regularly and should return to team practices next week.
Tonight's Prediction: Since these teams are so accustomed to playing each other in the playoffs, expect a playoff type atmosphere and a low scoring defensive game. Brent Johnson has played very well in the few opportunities he's had since Fleury got his game back, so expect him to be the difference. 3-2 Pens.
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