Welcome to a game that needs absolutely no introduction. However, I will provide you with one anyways. The last time these teams met, 3 suspensions were handed out, over 300 penalty minutes were accumulated, and Zenon Konopka decided that it was time to take down his Mario Lemieux poster in his bedroom. The meeting before was when we learned that Brent Johnson had a left hook that could break glass (aka Rick DiPietro's face). Can this matchup possibly be any good for either team??
The Penguins (47-25-8, 102 pts) are sitting calmly in 4th place in the East, with a chance to pass 2nd place Philadelphia with a win. On the other side, the Islanders (30-38-12, 72 pts) are playing for pride and roster spots as their season comes to an end. This mismatch is not a good sign as they Islanders have nothing to lose if they decide to turn this game into another circus act.
As such, Dan Bylsma has decided to infuse the lineup with a little toughness. Lines for tonight:
Neal-Letestu-Kovalev
Kunitz-Staal-Kennedy
Asham-Talbot-Dupuis
Rupp-Adams-Godard
Orpik-Letang
Martin-Michalek
Lovejoy-Niskanen
Fleury
Notes/Thoughts
- It doesn't appear that Engelland will get in the lineup tonight, but personally, I think this would be the perfect game to play him over Niskanen. Both for the sake of toughness and to see what he can do / get him so game time before the playoffs.
- Everyone skated today from Crosby down the list. Bylsma stated Crosby will likely not be ready for the first round, as I think we all expected. My guess is late 2nd or early 3rd round...assuming we get there.
- I would like to see Tangradi in the lineup over Asham, especially tonight. You would have to imagine Tangradi would play with a chip on his shoulder in this one. But alas, I don't coach the team...yet....
- I am mildly worried about the Islanders trying to take runs at Fleury. Earlier in the season, Cooke ran over DiPietro more than a few times, and the last couple of games have had their goalie battles (Johnson fighting everyone). Just another reason I'd like Engelland to be on the blue line. Orpik better be prepared to clear out the crease fast and often.
Prediction: The refs will be on top of both teams in this one and I think that'll keep things calm aside from a Godard fight. The Pens will take this one, 4-2.
No comments:
Post a Comment