We finally have our enforcer

[wgknestrick]

The PP

http://stats.hockeyanalysis.com/teamstats.php?disp=1&db=201415&sit=5v4&sort=GF60&sortdir=DESC

We are scoring over 5 more goals/60 min of 5v4 time than we were last year. If that isn't providing an effective deterrent, then I don't know what would. I also notice teams not wanting to "start the stupid" as much against the Pens.

Click to read more...

 

[Get To Our Game]

Dejan had the same idea, and I do think it makes sense:

http://dkonpittsburghsports.com/2014/11/05/column-penguins-serious-power-trip/

But what’s become fascinating — and very much worth further monitoring — is how teams are backing off the Penguins for fear of being sent to the box.

I brought this up with Johnston after the game, and he concurred: “Usually, nowadays, if you look at a game and say, ‘Do we need a tough guy in this game?’ or wonder how physically your team has to play … really, when you look at it, our power play is the best deterrent we have out there. Certainly, teams are intimidated to take penalties now. They want to be careful on us. And as a result, you get a little more space, you get more chances to take the puck to the net.â€

It must have been pretty demoralizing to the Wild to keep us off the PP for so long, then eleven seconds after we get one, the puck is in the net.

 

[Honour Over Glory]

When you convert at the rate the Penguins are, damn straight teams are going to think twice about pushing the Pens buttons, especially now that they are a little more composed and not off the leash like they used to be under Disco Dunce.