Where We Are: Coming off of a horrific, disappointing loss, so either a team with a shattered confidence or with something to prove. From all indications in recent history, I would say the former.
Where They Are: Pittsburgh too either has a shattered confidence or with something to prove after losing to the Islanders - the Islanders - Friday, 3-2. Granted, it was their second loss in their last seven games so perhaps they won't be too despondent. Damn.Who To Watch For: You know the names, they are obnoxious just the same. Crosby, Malkin, Guerin, Gonchar, Cooke, Fedotenko ... even that idiot former Devil Mike Rupp. Doubtful we will face the injured Chris Kunitz, Kris Letang, Alex Goligoski or Jay McKee. Check that, Goligoski and Letang will be back. Dammit.
What To Watch For: Chris Bourque, Ray's older son, has three assists in 18 games this season; the Rangers being the Rangers, he should score. Brent Johnson started vs. the Isles so we will get the Day Glo smile of Marc-Andre Fleury. See if Prospal/Gaborik can take advantage of the new parts to the Pittsburgh blueline kids Deryk Engelland and Ben Lovejoy and former Colorado Cup winner Martin Skoula. Brashear to battle Eric Godard in a foolish attempt at revenge for Godard's win in the season-opener.
What We'll (Hopefully) See: The Blueshirts to leave the laziness in the sunshine of Florida and play hockey. The trend of Rangers standing up for each other to continue. Someone to knock Crosby out for the season. Bobby Sanguinetti to play better - he clearly looked nervous in his debut, although he had the team falling apart around him so it wasn't entirely his fault. Ryan Callahan to score again. Sean Avery to out-Avery Matt Cooke. Our Staal to be better than theirs.
Also Check Out: With the bandwagon as big as it ever was, the Pens blogosphere is booming but the best of the best is Empty Netters (the Pittsburgh Post Gazette's stellar link-happy blog), the snarky photoshop-heavy awesomeness of The PensBlog and SBN's Pensburgh.
Peepin' Foes: Pittsburgh Penguins - A Deep Dive into a Hockey Powerhouse
In the world of professional ice hockey, few teams command as much respect and admiration as the Pittsburgh Penguins. Established in 1967 as part of the NHL's first expansion, the Penguins have a rich history of success, boasting five Stanley Cup championships and a roster of legendary players. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Pittsburgh Penguins, exploring their storied history, notable players, and frequently asked questions (FAQs) that continue to intrigue fans and newcomers alike.
The Pittsburgh Penguins: A Hockey Powerhouse
History and Origins
The Pittsburgh Penguins entered the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the "Second Six" expansion in 1967, alongside teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and Los Angeles Kings. The team's name was inspired by the Pittsburgh area's connection to the flightless bird, the penguin, due to the city's proximity to the Pittsburgh Zoo.
In their early years, the Penguins struggled to find success, but they gradually built a competitive team. The turning point came in the early 1990s when the Penguins, led by superstar Mario Lemieux, won back-to-back Stanley Cups in 1991 and 1992. This marked the beginning of a new era of success for the franchise.
Notable Players
The Pittsburgh Penguins have had their fair share of iconic players who left a lasting impact on the franchise and the sport of hockey as a whole. Here are some of the most legendary Penguins players:
Mario Lemieux: Widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, Lemieux was not only a prolific scorer but also a team owner who helped save the franchise from financial troubles. He won two Stanley Cups with the Penguins and remains an enduring figure in the sport's history.
Jaromir Jagr: Jagr, a dynamic forward from the Czech Republic, played alongside Lemieux during the Penguins' championship runs in the early '90s. He became a fan favorite and won multiple scoring titles during his time in Pittsburgh.
Sidney Crosby: Known as "Sid the Kid," Crosby is a modern-day hockey superstar and has been the face of the franchise since being drafted first overall in 2005. Crosby has led the Penguins to three Stanley Cup victories (2009, 2016, 2017) and has numerous individual awards to his name.
Evgeni Malkin: Malkin, a Russian center, has been Crosby's longtime teammate and is considered one of the league's top talents. He has also played a crucial role in the Penguins' recent championship successes.
Tom Barrasso: A standout goaltender, Barrasso was instrumental in the Penguins' back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 1991 and 1992. He was known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances in high-stakes games.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As a team with a storied history and a passionate fan base, the Pittsburgh Penguins generate a fair share of questions from both devoted followers and newcomers to the sport. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:
1. How did the Penguins get their team name?
The team's name, the Penguins, was chosen in honor of the flightless bird because of Pittsburgh's association with the Pittsburgh Zoo and its penguin exhibit. The name was selected through a naming contest held before the team's inception in 1967.
2. How many Stanley Cups have the Penguins won?
As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the Pittsburgh Penguins have won a total of five Stanley Cup championships. They won their titles in the following years: 1991, 1992, 2009, 2016, and 2017. Please note that the team's achievements may have changed after that date.
3. Who are some other notable players who have played for the Penguins?
In addition to the aforementioned players, the Penguins have had several other notable players over the years, including Paul Coffey, Ron Francis, Larry Murphy, and Mark Recchi, among others. Each of these players made significant contributions to the team during their respective tenures.
4. What is the Penguins' home arena?
The Penguins play their home games at the PPG Paints Arena, which is located in the Uptown neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The arena, known for its modern amenities and passionate fan base, has been the team's home since its opening in 2010.
5. How can I get tickets to Penguins games?
To purchase tickets for Pittsburgh Penguins games, you can visit the official Penguins website, check with authorized ticket vendors, or explore secondary ticket marketplaces. Ticket availability may vary depending on the team's schedule and demand.
6. Has Sidney Crosby retired, and what is his legacy in the NHL?
As of my last update in September 2021, Sidney Crosby had not retired from professional hockey. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of his generation and has left an indelible mark on the NHL with his exceptional skill, leadership, and championship success.
7. What is the Penguins' biggest rivalry?
The Penguins have intense rivalries with several teams, including the Philadelphia Flyers and the Washington Capitals. The rivalry with the Flyers, known as the "Battle of Pennsylvania," is particularly fierce and dates back to the early years of the franchise.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are more than just a hockey team; they are a symbol of resilience, excellence, and passion. With a rich history, legendary players, and a devoted fan base, the Penguins continue to be a dominant force in the NHL. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the sport, the Penguins' legacy and impact on the world of hockey are undeniable, making them a team worth peeping at and celebrating for years to come.
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