Pens vs. Wings II

It's appropriate that the Penguins are being compared to the early Gretzky led Oilers. Crosby has been hyped as the "Next One" since he was 10 years old. The Oilers lost their first Cup attempt to the veteran and savvy Islanders. That is a mirror of last season's Penguins against the Red Wings. Both sets of teams re-matched in the Cup Final the next season.

 

I've said before that the Penguins are not a better team than last year and the Red Wings arguably are, assuming full rosters. But Detroit doesn't have a full roster. The Winged Wheel was able to win two big games against the Blackhawks without Lidstrom and Datsyuk. They finished the series last night without Eriksson and Draper as well. It's a testament to the Red Wings, their system and organization that a team can win without 4 key players. The Red Wings often expect and get key performances from all four lines as they go deep in the playoffs. They seldom rely on one uber-skilled line, yet can put one together if the need arises. But I think they need some fast healing to effectively deal with the Penguins.

 

That's where the NHL comes in. The Finals start this Saturday. That's a pretty quick turnaround, even for the NHL. The original plan was to start next weekend; but 10 days is WAY too long of a layoff. So, I guess I have to agree with the scheduling, even though it handicaps the Red Wings. In an effort to get some sort of TV ratings, there will be back-to-back games. I'm not on board for that. If TV was that important to the NHL they should have cut a deal with ESPN and not Versus.

 

I'm just hoping that scheduling doesn't cheat the hardcore hockey fan (me) from a great series. Injuries are definitely a big part of the NHL playoffs and I accept that. But that day-off between games is pretty important for both teams, but especially the Red Wings at this point. It could mean the difference between getting a top forward, defenseman, veteran grinder, or rookie back into the lineup.

 

Eriksson underwent an emergency appendectomy yesterday morning, which allowed Chelios into the game. But he is possible for Game 1 this Saturday. Wow. That's pretty hardcore.

 

I'm still calling Red Wings. A lot will depend on the injury situation and how it plays out. But regardless, I still like Detroit. I see them better in all areas except penalty killing, which has been down this year. Crosby and Malkin may steal a game or two. But the Wings should win the series. Ultimately, it should come down to Detroit containing the Penguins stars, and outworking Pittsburgh. While the Pens are not able to deal with Detroit's depth and powerplay.