Pittsburgh Penguins of course!

[admin]

Ok, granted i'm slightly biased, however, i believe the Pens still have what it takes to win the Cup once again this year and here's why:

1. We still have our 'core' group of players: Crosby, Malkin, Staal, Talbot, Fluery, Gonchar, etc...i mean...it's an incredible lineup and one that most teams would kill to have.

2. Coach 'B'.  Do i really need to say more?

3. We now have a young group of players who know what it's like to win...and they're going to want that feeling again this year.

4. This is a personal reason, but i want to see the Cup floating in Mario's pool once again.

[Debs]

I have to admit to being highly prejudiced as well, and who wouldn't be when we kept so many of our Cup winning players?  Admittedly I'm a bit nervous about losing Scuderi in particular, but then I have to stop and consider who we still have on the lbueline--LeTang (I look for big things from him), Gonchar, Orpik, and Eaton, plus I feel McKee is a good addition and it looks like Goligoski gets his shot. Sid's line is totally intact, and I am just holding my breathe wonderign what they'll do as a unit all season.  Geno's line is pretty much set, with the only "problem" being who takes right wing till Talbot comes back.  Or is Talbot even a guy who can play top 6 for a season?? (did I ever mention how glad I am to see Fedotenklo back?? lol)

Basically I see few chinks in the armor.  One thing that does bother me is can the team stay healthy?  For a few areas that's going to be a big factor, like on defense for example.  LeTang and his bothersome shoulder, as far as I know, just went the rehab route so hopefully he's going to be 100% and will be able to stay that way.  Orpik is coming in to camp with some sort of wrist injury, but with any luck and some good rehab that will clear up quickly.  The man I really hope is blessed with good health is Marc-Andre Fleury!!!  I'd like to see people like Fedotenko and Dupuis up their output a bit, minor things like that.

Do I think we can repeat?  Yes, I do, I'm feeling pretty confident about that.  It won't be at all easy and I look at the Capitals as being one of our biggest rivals this year.  They were tough last year, and they are determined to win the Cup.  We just have to show them we have the better team.  Again.  Period.

[bec1980]

I'm with you guys, the Pens most definitly. It's pretty much the same team as last year. So why can't they repeat!!

[LemieuxCrosby]

I am going to say Pens!! ..

I think it'll be Pens vs. Chicago for the cup this year..Detriot will get eliminated fast

[admin]

I too feel that Chicago is going to be more of a threat than Detroit.  I've not been impressed with Detroit so far this year.  Maybe they have a bit of the blues after losing to the Pens?