Question: DK, I realize it’s only two games but the Penguins PK unit is awful. What do they need to do to improve, other than leave Paul Martin on the bench? I don’t think he’s looked good at all, especially in short-handed situations.
DK: Highly specific situations can stand out in our minds, good or bad, and get overvalued. I’m going to take a wild guess, Jason, that you’re thinking of Martin’s fairly lame poke attempt on Corey Perry’s hat trick goal the other night after the Ducks had already been buried. And I’d advise taking a broader perspective.
For one, the Penguins are, indeed, off to a terrific start. Winning in Toronto is one thing — everyone’s been doing that for close to half a century — but beating Anaheim with Perry and Ryan Getzlaf going full-tilt, that’s different. It’s been uplifting, both in terms of results and process.
For another, you’re right: The PK’s been lousy. And you’re further right that it’s got plenty to do with personnel. I just don’t think it’s Martin in question. Rob Scuderi has basically latched himself to the fencepost and shouts angrily at neighbors invading his yard. Not much there. Still. The rest of the PK defense isn’t much better. This is one area where Robert Bortuzzo will help eventually. Strong, nasty, and his lack of mobility doesn’t hurt him. Up front is a concern, too. If it isn’t Sutter or Dupuis, it’s iffy. And that goes triple for Craig Adams, who plain and simple no longer can play short-handed in the NHL. Or even strength. Or observing from the bench.