Penguins Win in Six

Game Six at the Bell Center.  The Penguins have a chance to close out another series on the road.  One thing we know for sure — they’ve done it before.  I predicted the Pens would win this series in five games.  I really didnt’ think that Halak and the Canadiens could continue on this emotional high for so long.  They have proved me wrong.  Now the question is – do they have enough left to force another Game Seven?  I don’t think that they do.  It is really the same story that we have been talking about all series.  Halak can’t be almost perfect forever, Crosby has to score.  Can this Game Six be the one where these things finally take place?  A quote from Halak that hasn’t gotten much play is that he felt that the  Canadiens did not get enough traffic in front of Fleury.  Even if that is true, I’m not sure he should be the one telling his forwards what they need to do.  Without their attention to defensive zone play, Halak would not be having the playoff success that he has enjoyed.  If the Penguins can win this series without Crosby scoring a goal, more power to them.  They will not have to.  Crosby is going to remind the Montreal fans what a great clutch player he is.  Once again the hand shakes are on the road.  That’s the view from E-11.

Note — If Gill is out, the Canadiens are in trouble.  Even if he is less than 100% it will be a factor in the Penguins favor.  No matter how you look at it, Gill has been a force in the playoffs just like he was last year. 

Note — If Malkin is truly started on his playoff tear, we could see something special at the Bell Center Monday night.

Note — Some Penguin bandwagon jumpers are still on Fleury.  Would you rather have Brodeur, Howard, Luongo? I wouldn’t.  The only goalie left who might be considered as effective as Fleury has been is Tuuka Rask.  The Penguins will solve him in the Conference finals.