Tonight is the last game of the season for the Pittsburgh Penguins. The playoff streak (16 years) is over. No post-season hockey for the boys in the Black and Gold. Put a fork in 'em, they're done.
I'll be watching the game this evening as I always do. I'll be cheering on my beloved Pens against the Columbus Blue Jackets. I'm no fair-weather fan, win or lose, they're my team.
It was a frustrating season for Penguin fans to say the least. I'm sure it was for the players and Coach Sullivan as well. It is the end of an era to be sure. I'm sure the Holy Trinity will be back next year (Malkin, Crosby, and LeTang), but I expect to see a lot of new faces.
The goalie situation needs to be resolved. Outside of Guentzel, Rakell, Zucker, and Archibald, not much from the rest of the offensive squad (even Rust struggled). P.O Joseph and Dumoulin were decent for the most part. The rest of the defense was just okay. Needless to say, injuries haunted the club all season and the trades weren't great. Rumors already are circulating about what heads will roll and who will stay and who will go.
But for this Penguin fan, I'm going to sit back and enjoy the game tonight. It will be the last one until next Fall. I got spoiled over the years watching Penguin post-season hockey. Like many hockey fans I'll just have to pick a different team and root for them in the playoffs. Decisions, decisions,...