Have the Pens hit rock bottom yet?

By The Hack
It appears that the Penguins problems may be deeper rooted than first noted. After a week to prepare for two games, the Penguins were soundly beaten by NJ and Boston. The practices couldn't change the fact that the Pens just have no chemistry right now.

  Coach Olczyk has switched the lines up and changed the defensive pairings. He has benched players and even consulted GM Craig Patrick for advise to try and jump start this outfit. The results haven't changed. With their record at 0-4-4 they now have a franchise record for worst start to a season.

  Remember, this team was touted as Stanley Cup contender by most of teams players and management. But that's why they play the games. On paper the team has many veteran all-stars and young promising players that looked to dominate early and often. Right now they have not clicked on any level. Teams need a balance between skilled finishers and guys that can grind it out and do the little things necessary to win hockey games. Hustle and determination still wins hockey games in the NHL and the Penguins are getting beat in both categories.

  On Saturday,the Penguins lost the game by giving up 3 power play goals in a 3:17 span in the second period. Most of the penelties were of the lazy variety.  Hooking, holding, cross checking are all done by a player that is not in position. The Pittsburgh defense is slow and downright terrible right now. Gonchar, Jackman and Tarnstrom are not known for their defensive prowess but come on!!! They need to clear the crease . Period. Take care of the defensive zone first and the offense will open up.

  Worse yet, has been the play of the so called "defensive defensemen". Orpik, Poapst, Odelein and Melichar have looked slow and disinterested in playing smart and  physical . We need guys to win pucks in the corners and make a simple out pass to clear the zone. Everyone is still looking for the touchdown pass instead of the quick cycling passes in deep,  cross ice passes  look great but they are low percentage and can go the other way on you in a hurry. Our heavy legged defense can't recover fast enough for these mistakes.

   All looks lost right??? Well , we are only 8 games into a 82 game season. These games will only hurt if the Pens need them to make the playoffs in May. But this week may be a telling time for some of the players and even Coach Edzo and his staff

 

WEEK PREVIEW

 

A 3 game home stand may be a make or break series for some players. The heat may start to build for Coach Eddie Olczyk too if this situation doesn't improve by the tenth game or so.

 

Tuesday the Florida Panthers come to town and they feature Roberto Luongo in the net. He already has two shutouts. Olli Jokinen and a cast of young guns will make the Cats a formidable foe .

 

Thursday brings in the high powered Atlanta Thrashers. After losing both of their goaltenders to injury the Thrashers have struggle and given up alot of goals. Their offense is much like the Pens, much skill and low production thus far. This could be the Pens first blow out game if they can get back on track.

 

Saturday has the Carolina Hurricanes in the 'burgh.  The last time we played the Canes Rookie Cam Ward was outstanding in stopping many point black shots. Carolina features a well balanced attack with puck movement the Penguins need beware of.

 

The Penguins have to win more face-offs and get the puck to the net. They were out shot badly this week and have to improve on this stat this week to have more quality chances to score.  #1 thing to look for  ??? Score the first goal. The Pens have still only done this once all year. Get a lead and building on it is the key. If they gain some confidence and relax  maybe the team can break this bad run they are on. Their jobs are at stake in the coming weeks!