how good do you think the penguins will do this year?

Answer 1

Not very. They're still very young and are not a strong defensive team (the fact that their forwards are not great back-checkers as currently comprised factors in to that). Maybe a playoff team at the end of 3 years.

Answer 2

The big issue for the team is the impending sale and the slots license award in Pennsylvania. I have no doubts that the team will remain the Pittsburgh Penguins between the best case scenario (Isle of Capri Casino wins the bid and puts up $290 million for a new arena) or the Plan B option by the state. In either case, the NHL will not allow the team to move to Las Vegas, Kansas City, Hartford, Winnipeg, or Hamilton unless there is a catastrophic collapse in the arena issue (not going to happen).

In terms of actual on-ice issues, the hiring of Ray Shero as GM will prove to be a solid move. Craig Patrick had become way too stale for the good of team. His methodology had become sorely outdated. Shero has a better feel for the operation and building of a small market team (see Nashville and Ottawa).

The Penguins have the best core of young talent in the NHL and have the makings of a return to the elite in hockey in a few short years. If Evgeni Malkin is able to join the team this season, the Pens may contend for a 7th or 8th seed in the playoffs. Otherwise, I see them just sitting outside the playoffs. This team regardless should see the last of bottom two finishes for a very long time.

Answer 3

Proably going to be another rough year but should be better. The team is getting along better then last year. Yeah it is a young team BUT the chemistry is better. I think not giving the team to Marino and Cuban could be the end of the team in Pittsburgh though. I think Plan B by the State is proably a bad plan as you never heard the team getting behind it. They rarely even mentioned it. I think this guy that is expected to be the new owner wants to move them to Kansas City. It is rather clear that is where his conections are. Come on though a lousy 5 million dollars. That is all the reason my local paper gave, so hoping something more comes out.

Answer 4

I can see them finishing as high as 3rd place. The Kid should have more of an impact but things are in motion involving the Pens right now. The stadium issue, the selling of the team, the new rules involving the salary cap and player transactions are the least of their challenges. They are in need of more talented starters in order to win the division. I can see the Flyers finishing 1st or 2nd, the Devils are never out of it, then the Pens and Rangers, and the Isles who are going to have a tough year.

I hope they stay in Pittsburgh.

Answer 5

Lemieux hates the city of Pittsburgh because they wouldn't build him a new arena, so now he is selling the team to an owner that will move the team. Some of the cities are Vegas, Little Rock, Santa Fe, Winnipeg, and Mexico City.

Answer 6

I dont think they'll do any better with their new changes:
1) They lost Lemieux and he wants to sell the team (most probably to Quebec City)
2) Crosby is awesome and yet the rest of the team doesn't seem to be any stronger
3) They still dont have a good goalie, Fleury, bah hes done.

Answer 7

I think they will do better but Crosby should not be the captain of the team if they plan to make the playoffs and make some noise.

He has not gained the respect of his teamates or other players yet because he is being arrogant and a cry baby on the ice.........I guess thats what happens when you live with Mario!!

Answer 8

The Kansas City Penguins? Yea, the change of venue will do them good.

Answer 9

The Hartford Penguins may make the playoffs but not go far. They still need goaltending and a defense!!

Answer 10

It took Mario about 5 seasons, I think, to lead the Pens to the playoffs so good luck, Sydney and Evgeni. A lot of rough seasons ahead methinks. I just hope you guys keep your team and it doesn't end up as KC Scouts Version 2.0.

Yours,

Bob Woytowich