Pens Lose to Leafs in Pre-Season

The Pens managed to lose to the Maple Leafs while surrendering only 17 shots on goal.  11 of the shots and all four goals came in the second period.  This outburst was certainly inspired by a 5 minute major that Craig Adams received.  The Leafs managed only 6 shots on goal in the other two periods combined.  Oh well, it’s pre-season.

Just a couple of notes on last nights game:

Hopefully, Brent Johnson had an unusually bad game and that it is not at all reflective of what we can expect from him when he is called upon.

Craig Adams played a very gritty, hard-nosed game.  He looked like a guy who was out to show people why he belongs on the Pens roster.  I was a believer.

Alex Goligoski is going to be fantastic.

Toronto had a guy named Rodgers on the ice wearing the number 66.  Apparently, the Penguin players (as well as fans) took exception to his choice of sweater numbers.  Many different Penguin players took opportunities to show their displeasure by roughing him up.  The message to Rodgers culminated into a beating by Paul Bissonnette.

I know it is pre-season and a lot of guys are trying to do some extra things to make an impression, but from what I have witnessed in these first two games, the Pens seemed to be playing with more of an edge.

Not having known too much about Konstantin Pushkarev, I thought he looked pretty good out there.  He showed some speed, determination and a nose for the puck.

I liked what I saw from Ben Lovejoy as well.  He certainly plays a responsible defensive game, but I found him to be more physical than I expected.

And that was the view from E11.