They beat the Pens last year by being physical. They also have forwards in their top 6 that are 6,2 208, 6,3 217, 6,0 225 and bottom 6 forwards that are 6,2 215, 6,2 206, 6,3 199, 6,3 202. Doesn't include Trochek, Lafrenierre and Motte who play physical similar to Zucker.Remember how the Rags sunk in the standings after they got rid of Ryan Reaves? Yeah, me neither.
Their defense has Trouba (who obviously is physical) 6,3 209, 6,4 185, 6,5 210, 6,2 202 and 6,6 222.
Reaves was expendable because they can protect themsleves. If you enjoy watching Guentzel abused every game and Malkin being the one that steps in, great. I'm sure they enjoy it too.