Predictions for 2010-11

And the countdown begins. The Pens have until 3 p.m. tomorrow to cut their roster down to 23 players. It's depressing to see Craig on waivers given his impressive play at the beginning of the preseason, if he didn't injure his groin, things may have gone differently. If he clears waivers and ends up in WBS, I wouldn't be surprised to see him get called up at some point during the season. Hutchinson didn't really do much to really impress me in what little I was able to see of him. Billy G got cut by Philly, so at least I don't have to buy an industrial-sized bottle of bleach.

Prediction time! Here's my predictions for the season (mostly Pens-related):

1. Malkin will finish the season with a career high 125 points (at least).

2. Orpik will be given the "A".

3. Comrie will have a 30 goal season.

4. Sid will score 50 goals.

5. Fleury will be so great this year that anyone still doubting his talent will finally shut the fuck up.

6. Simon Despres and Lovejoy WILL be on the starting roster Thursday night (maybe that's just wishful thinking on my part).

7. New Jersey might actually be a little less boring to watch. Brodeur will be forced to face more shots, and as a result, will have the worst GAA of his life. Lots of drama will play out in their locker room.

8. The Avs will make it to the second round of the finals, but no further. (Sorry guys, I gotta give my honest opinion.)

9. Calgary will continue to be injury-prone, and will not make it to the playoffs this year.

10. Columbus, Toronto, Florida, and the Islanders will be placed on waivers by the NHL because they perpetually suck.

11. Arron Asham will beat the ever-living shit out of Carcillo. (How fucking great would that one be!?)

Part 2 of predicions: the standings:

Eastern Conference:

Atlantic:
1. Pens
2. Devils
3. Philly
4. Rangers
5. Islanders

Northeast:
1. Sabres
2. Habs
3. Bruins
4. Sens
5. Leafs (go figure)

Southeast:
1. Caps
2. Lightning
3. Canes
4. Thrashers
5. Panthers

Western Conference:

Central:
1. Wings
2. Hawks
3. Blues
4. Preds
5. Jackets

Northwest:
1. Canucks
2. Avs
3. Flames
4. Wild
5. Oilers

Pacific:
1. Sharks
2. Coyotes
3. Kings
4. Ducks
5. Stars

We'll come back to this at the end of the season for a comparison. Here's the last commercial, a fan favorite:



You knew that had to be included. Go Pens! (And by the way, happy birthday Mario!)