There seems to be a growing perception among Penguins fans that superstars Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin haven’t done much in the playoffs since achieving total domination during the black-and-gold’s Cup run of 2009. This prompted me to do a little research.
Here are Crosby and Malkin’s postseason numbers since ’09, including Games 1-3 of this year’s opening-round series with Columbus:
Player |
Games |
Goals |
Assists |
Points |
+/- |
PPG |
Sidney Crosby |
36 |
16 |
30 |
46 |
-1 |
1.28 |
Evgeni Malkin |
37 |
12 |
26 |
38 |
-4 |
1.03 |
While it ain’t exactly “Two-Headed Monster” output, it’s impressive production for the postseason nonetheless. Frankly, the most alarming stat is the plus/minus. Even though Sid and Geno have averaged better than a point per game, they’ve each been a minus in the playoffs going back through 2010.
Of course, the more immediate concern is the lack of goal production. Both Crosby (eight games) and Malkin (seven games) are mired in the longest postseason goal-scoring droughts of their respective careers.
Veteran sports commentator Stan Savran offered his opinion on the air the other night. He believes Sid and Geno are passing the puck too much. Stan thinks they should shoot more, which would provide more chances to score while creating opportunities for their linemates on rebounds and follow-up shots.
I agree.
a message to the penguins http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-9PzmMhZ5c
You think. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know they stink
are u kiddin me? what kind of a team gives a performance like this one? heartless and coachless. pack ur bags bylsma baby…and take fleury wit ya. how do you explain this one?
I guess being #1 & #2 leading scorers among active players that have played 10 or more career playoff games just doesn’t cut it. There is a slim possibility that some expectations are out of skew.
They are paid to be ‘the difference makers’ and it’s time they earned their big bucks.
Just be patient
“..Sid and Geno are passing the puck too much.” Noooooo, really!?!?!?!
GO PENS!!
Pens rock so all u haters out there shut up