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| Via: thewhig.com |
There's only one game on tap for the NHL playoffs tonight, as many of the other teams that would have been playing tonight have been eliminated already. Let's take a look at the match-up:
Pittsburgh Penguins @ New York Islanders (7:00pm ET)
TV: TSN, RDS, NBCSN, Root, MSG, Plus
Series: 3-2 Penguins
The Islanders have played with tons of heart and effort this year and will have to bring all that and more if they want to avoid elimination tonight at home against Pittsburgh.
The Pens offense has been outstanding, as Evgeni Malkin (9 points), Sidney Crosby and Jarome Iginla (both 8 points) have led Pittsburgh to a playoff high 4.20 goals per game. The Islanders will have to do everything they can to shut these three superstars down, and it starts with Evgeni Nabokov in goal. Nabokov has been at times brilliant this post-season, but can't bail his team out every time. The defense simply must do all it can to limit an overwhelming Penguins attack. Taking less penalties would help, as Pittsburgh has the best power play in the playoffs, operating at 35.0%. Another story to watch out for is whether Tomas Vokoun will get the start between the pipes for the Penguins or not. After supplanting Marc-Andre Fleury for the start in game five, Vokoun was outstanding and picked up a 31 save shutout victory. There is nothing to report on the injury front for the Penguins, however the Isles will be without one of their best defensemen, Andrew MacDonald, for the rest of the playoffs after he broke his hand in game four. Frans Neilsen, who was injured in game five, will be a game time decision for New York. Prediction: 5-2 Pens.
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I mentioned in this morning's snapshots how the Russian team is growing increasingly frustrated with their performance at the IIHF World Championships. Allow me to provide some evidence: Kovy smash!
I think that the Islanders are able to force a game 7, they'll be pumped once again infront of their home crowd. Will be my first night without playoff hockey, need some rest ;) Can't wait for tomorrows game at the ACC where the Leafs haven't won a playoff game against the Bruins since 1959. Will be a great day of hockey with Germany facing the USA aswell.
ReplyDeleteI dunno...I think the Pens really found their stride in the last game and will just overwhelm the Isles tonight offensively. We'll have to wait and see I guess, we both know how great my predictions have gone! Glad I don't have any money riding on it. As for the Bruins, you already know how I feel :P
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