Lovin Jiri Fischer 147 Report post Posted May 30, 2009 Last year the Pens breezed through the playoffs. They made it all the way to the finals with only two losses. One to Philly and one to the Rangers. This year they lost two against Philly and went to seven games against the Caps. So my question is how exactly are the Pens better this year than last year? Okay, Malkin is better this year and Crosby is better this year. But as an entire team, the Pens were much better last year because they hardly ever lost. Isn't 08's two losses in the first three rounds much better than 09's five losses? The only series they breezed through this year was Carolina for crying out loud! Am I missing something? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Vincanni 1 Report post Posted May 30, 2009 They're not a better team, just more experienced. The biggest advantage the Pens have this year over last is Detroit's injuries to key players. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Theophany 110 Report post Posted May 30, 2009 They're not a better team, just more experienced. The biggest advantage the Pens have this year over last is Detroit's injuries to key players. Our team is a lot more experienced as well. Guys like Mule, Sammy, Hudler, etc have the experience of winning a cup now, and the difference in Helm is night and day. Helm has been a big difference this year in the playoffs. The 4th line is pretty much "Helm's line" now, much like when Dats is on a line. It's incredibly obvious when Helm steps on to the ice, and he's having a huge impact on the other team. His speed, hitting, and forechecking has been huge, especially in the games vs Chicago. At best, experience is a wash this year. We've pretty much culled the older parts of the system that were slowing down from last year and replaced them with younger guys that are less prone to injury and bring a new energy and youth to the team, and can keep pressure on the puck while our first and second lines can rest. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Datsyerberger 279 Report post Posted May 30, 2009 (edited) Their secondary scoring is worse, particularly on the top line. The overall team scoring is down while Crosby's rate is up a little (+0.14 PPG) and Malkin's rate is up a bit (+.34 PPG). Defensive scoring rate is up a little as well (attributable to a less trappy style from Bylsma and improved play from Letang). Edited May 30, 2009 by Datsyerberger Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
