The Penguins Report- By FractalSteel

June 12, 2009 what a day. Seared into our collective memories, each taking a special meaning, that night brings about a few questions. First, is this the start of a run, where we see the core, the essential components in place, begin a string of championships? Secondly, and maybe more importantly, can this team repeat?
 

I can't imagine seeing the names Crosby, Malkin, Fleury, Staal, Talbot, Letang,etc on the cup just once. Things would have to take a drastic turn for that core not to win at least one more cup.
Of course there are factors that can rip a team apart. Salary cap could pry one of the franchise players away. Injuries are always a risk. Personality conflicts can tear a team apart.Superstars wanting a new start, etc.
 

The salary cap would be the most likely factor in breaking up the core of the team. Either Malkin or Crosby could demand top dollar and if that would be the case, one would probably have to go. Thankfully both took the home team discount, but that could change when current contracts expire.

Can the Penguins repeat? You bet. Will they? Go ask the psychic on the corner, he or she might have a plausible answer. It is crazy difficult to repeat in the modern NHL, go ask the Red Wings.

What are the odds of making the finals three times in a row? I know, more questions than answers.
 

Anyway, Friday night begins the the grind, the long season, followed by the playoffs. Hopefully sometime in June we Penguin fans will be ordering championship gear.

I'll let the conjecture take place on the board about the roster. Hockey is one of the sports where the lineup often changes game to game.

Breakout year- Tyler Kennedy and Jordan Staal. Kennedy has gotten better each year and now is expected to contribute on either the second or third line. Thirty goals would be great but twenty five seems more likely.
 

Staal was a beast at times during the preseason and he seemed to get stronger as the playoffs wore on last year. If he can chip in with thirty goals, the league will be in trouble.
Honorable mention- Kris Letang. The kid has the tools to be an all star, and if he can eliminate the mistakes that have plagued him, then he will take that next step and shine.

Might slump- Gonchar. Age has to catchup to him eventually. Let us hope that is still a season or two away.
 

Honorable mention-Evgeni Malkin. I doubt he won't be up there in most of the offensive categories, but a lot of superstars have a down year early in their careers.

My prediction: Third in the East behind Philadelphia and Washington. Stanley cup winners in six over......

Let the journey begin!