So after months of waiting way too long, not only has the NHL season started but the Guins are back and ready to atone for last season. This season should have many stories, so here are some things to look toward.
First off, unfortunately, are the Atlanta Thrashers. This team has enough to deal with off the ice, with the death of Dan Snyder. Not only that, but they must overcome the loss of Dany Heatley for what appears to be the whole season. The Thrasher organization has stated Heatley will be back by the end of the year, but tearing not only the ACL, but his MCL will make that hard to do. This of course is assuming that Heatley isn't in jail. Look to not only Bob Hartley, but former Penguin Shawn McEachern to provide leadership for this young, emotionally spent team. Expect them to be in the playoff hunt, and they might even sneak in.
The Avs won't win a Cup with Aeibisher in net. Expect a trade or an early exit for the Avs.
How about those Rangers? You'll read it here first, they will miss the playoffs this season also, extending the streak to seven seasons I believe. Losing 5-0 to a Columbus team that has no right to even be on the same ice as some of those players will not help this team out.
Now, onto the home team.
By the end of the season, the X Generation will have found a goalie for the next 15 years. After watching Marc-Andre Fleury on Friday night, I am completely sold on the kid. What surprises me is how quick and smart the kid is. Watch how he calmly pokechecks on a penalty shot! Most veterans don't even think about that. This kid is something special. Let's hope he gets the Pens back to the playoffs.
Speaking of the playoffs, the Pens will be in them. Not only is everyone picking them last in the conference, many do not give them a chance to even compete. Although they have a "young" lineup, the Pens have tons of leadership that is invaluable. They have no pressure, and if they do make the playoffs, Eddie Olcyzk should win the Jack Adams award as Coach of the Year.
So besides Fleury, who will be the break out rookie for the Pens? I'd have to say on defense, the obvious choice is Brooks Orpik. Not only can he play solid defense, but he delivers the big hit the Pens have sorely missed since Kasparittis was traded. For the forwards, Ryan Malone so far has the right idea. The kid is HUGE, and goes straight to the net. Eventually, he'll get his rebound chances, and should be a 25 goal scorer.
That will end this column, hopefully I'll be writing many more this year.
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