Good morning one and all,
The Pens took care of the visiting Winnipeg Jets last night. Here are some game recaps:
The Goc-Lapierre trade has perhaps surprised people, but then we knew Jim Rutherford is not afraid to pull the trigger early. Updated with quotes from GMJR, here is a great overview by Seth Rorabaugh. [PPG]
Not everyone is a fan of the trade. Are the Pens falling into the grit trap again? [Hockey Buzz]
For a team seemingly so reliant on Crosby and Malkin, the Pens sure do OK without them, posting a 9-0-1 record in the last 10 games without either of their superstar centers. [ESPN]
Look no further than Kris Letang when thinking of why the Pens survive without their top 2 guys. The dynamic blueliner battled through pain and he had a mega game with assists on all 5 goals. [Penguins.com]
If only they could be healthy together, the Pens could be really, really good. If only. [PPG]
How great has David Perron been for the Pens? He's been a godsend. Great with Crosby, and also great last night without him. [NHL.com]
The Islanders annihilated the Rangers again, for the third time this season. This whole Islanders thing is officially not cute any more. That's a real contender right there. [TSN]
The last time a goalie won MVP recognition was Jose Theodore in 2002. This year Pekka Rinne looked awfully good in the first half, but is now hurt. Could that open the door for Carey Price, and does he have a shot at the Hart? [The Hockey News]
Oh hey, there's a game tonight as well. The Pens visit the Caps who also played, and lost, last night. Here is a game preview. [CBS Sports]