Keys To Bringing the Cup Back to Pittsburgh

It's that time of year again Pittsburgh fans, Pens Playoff Hockey. Those are some of the 3 best words for Pittsburghers. I'm gonna take a quick, vague look into what I think the Pens have to do to win the Stanley Cup. 1. Defense Wins Championships If the Pens want to compete for the cup this year and live up to the expectations they need to be more sound defensively. I'm specifically calling you out Paul Martin. Martin is supposed to be a top defender on this team and isn't living up to that contract we signed him to 2 years ago. He needs to be more consistent and be a factor. This of course has to go along with guys like Orpik, Z, and Letang playing at the level they have been. This all has to fall into place because a good defense needs to back up Fleury who has historically been eradic throughout the playoffs and makes the overall team better. 2. Capitalize on Opportunities This is plain and simple, if you get the Power Play opportunities you need to take advantage. The Pens have a firepowered offense but the defense is floundering. They need to be able to alleviate some pressure on them and Fleury and the best way to do that is to get a lead built. 3. Fleury Power I've mentioned it above, Fleury is far from stellar in the playoffs. I don't have stats in front of me so I can't really say how many goals he gives up during the playoffs per game but I'd guess it was close to 2. He needs to carry his momentum from the regular season and I think he'll be fine, just don't let him go on a long losing streak or he'll lose confidence quickly. 4. Leadership This is the most important in my eyes. Malkin needs to step up and take control of this team and lead them through the playoffs. He needs to lead by example and play lights out and give 110%. Sid also has to be Sid and give his team a chance to score. Finally, someone needs to step up this playoffs and be the big surprise contributor. It was Max Talbot in 2009, and the Pens need that guy. I look at Pascal Dupuis for that role. He's got an 18 game points streak and I think he'll carry it through into playoff play. Overall I think the Pens will get these tasks done and the Cup will be coming home to Pittsburgh. Follow me on twitter: @Black_YellowMan