We all know that Crosby and Malkin will get their points (especially against the Flyers), and we know that Fleury will make some outstanding saves and that Gonchar will rip some slappers that will convert the power play. All these are known factors that other teams can plan for.

So, what can the Pens bring that will give them the edge? It’s the third line - currently of Jordan Staal (TradeBait), Matt Cooke and Tyler Kennedy. This line’s success will determine how far the Penguins go this year.

That’s no bad thing against the beforehand mentioned star players, but instead, more of a demonstration that despite having superstar talent, you also need the grinders and muckers to do the little things the right way and pay attention to details.

On any other team, Staal would be a first or second line center, so that clearly gives the Penguins an advantage over every other team in the playoffs. Kennedy plays better on the road and that’s critical for playoff success since the Pens would most likely not have home ice for the Stanley Cup Finals. Cooke is the agitator/shadower that can score the occasional goal.

All the third line needs to do is average 1 goal every two games, and effectively shut down the opposing team’s top lines. With Staal, you have an excellent penalty killer as well as someone who has regained his scoring touch, making him the dangerous rookie we saw only 2 years ago.

Kennedy has the willingness to hit, forecheck and stand up for any team mate - which makes him irritating to the other team. Cooke can do the same, but for this campaign, all we need is a little bit of balance.

So, while the stars do what they’re supposed to do, the Penguins playoff hopes will continue as as the third line does it’s job.

Just my opinion, I could be wrong…What do you think?

[Source: PensBlog.com]

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