Where Do the Penguins Currently Stand?

Story by Yinzer Crazy Contributor Kuljit Parmar

If I had to grade the Pittsburgh Penguins' gameplay during the first half of the season, it would be a considerable B+  - and to say this team did not meet expectations is an overstatement, given the amount of injuries and bad luck they have had. I actually think they've done a good job keeping things under control, when they could have spiraled.

The main reason being is that the Pens showed excellent chemistry on the top two lines. The goaltending was also great when Tristan Jarry was healthy - something we can be optimistic about as the home-stretch of the season approaches.

Certainly, we the fans would feel better right now if the injury bug did not heckle the players and drastically slow down the momentum. But that's life.

To reiterate, I had mentioned in a previous article that it would be better for management to figure out how the team performs when they get healthier, and observe the weaknesses before making any moves, which has developed well into progression.

The patience shown by GM Ron Hextall means that they are likely in works of a trade package that would best fit the needs of the team in the short term. The President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke had an optimistic approach when grading his team and in my opinion he has a trick up his sleeve to pull away in the game and bring the Pens out of the wild card pack.

During this All-Star break, the GM’s will have time to get together and have the chance to hold more extensive trade talks. I do believe it will be a busy 2003 Trade Deadline -- and should give the fans quite the rollercoaster in the second half of the season.

For the third-line woes, maybe a player such as forward Max Domi of the Chicago Blackhawks could be a good fit for the team. The Toronto Maple Leafs third-line also needs adjustments in order to win, perhaps a deal may be in the works there?

The many options given and presented is a huge advantage for management and other teams in the league looking to contend, solely, because now is the time to win for this organization. Other teams know that and can leverage that.

My take is that indeed Hextall will make at least two changes to the line-up for the crucial steps down the stretch of the end of the season.

In order to be a winning team, the Penguins will have to work on the defensive structure more and so, due to their offensive game being well-rounded and solid amongst three-lines of the team. (Lines 1, 2, and 4)

My favorite part of this team is its resilience that they have shown since the beginning of January, even though as mentioned they have had its downs, but kept playing with heart. That is Dedication.

What is more amazing is that the leaders of the team are keeping pace in the conference, even with the injuries. Here's to bigger and better things in the second half. Or else, this could be the last time we see this core of Sid, Geno, & Letang together...