The Pens are hot

The Penguins are in fourth place. Yes, the Penguins are in fourth place. Yesterdays win over the Senators who are also tied for fourth, is the Penguins fifth in a row, and eighth in their last ten outings. That's not bad for a team that some didn't think would make it to the playoffs in January.

Talk to most people a few months ago and the normal responses were; the Pens are too soft, they need someone to protect Crosby and Malkin. The answer, Georges Laraque, one of the leagues heavy-weights. They need more veteran leadership. Answer, Gary Roberts. Roberts bring more veteran leadership and some grit to a very talented team. Roberts also waived a no trade clause to come to Pittsburgh when it was well known he wanted to end up in Ontario. He's must think there is something special there. The defense has some holes in it. That's still outstanding, and could very well be their downfall.

With the playoffs only a month away the Penguins are looking to be a very dangerous team. With only two points separating them from division leading New Jersey, the Penguins could be a force come playoff time.