Scouting Report on the Penguins

Assessing Staal has been difficult so far, since they haven’t put him with the top wingers despite the lack of a #1 center since they like the Kennedy-Staal-Cooke line that has been together the last 3 years. Since he has come back from injury he has been playing extremely good defensive hockey (which is not unexpected), but it might be the best of his career. He looks more confident and physical than in the past. Despite this, he doesn’t have the look of a #1 offensive center, only putting up 8 points in 15 games. In addition to the pure numbers, he doesn’t have the ability to take over a possession or really force the issue in the offensive zone. The low numbers may be skewed by the fact he hasn’t been on the “top line” and has drawn a heavy PK load, but he just doesn’t have the look of a #1 guy. But as a defensive #2 with offensive skill he is extremely good.

The offense as a whole has pretty much been grinding out some dirty goals, and getting the occasional PP chance. The D has been stellar, so the offense really hasn’t had to carry the load. A highly underrated loss in that department has been rookie center Mark Letestu. Lost in the Crosby/Malkin injuries, Letestu is out 4-6 weeks (has missed the past four games). He was tied for fourth on the team with 10 goals, was another center, and was at the time the team’s second best faceoff man (behind Crosby). His loss hurt quite a bit as he had slid up to take that first line center role. The most dangerous remaining options are Kris Letang on the back end (who has been very good this year) and Chris Kunitz, who has 18 goals and has continued to play well in Crosby’s absence.

Sorry for the lengthy reply, that may give you an idea of what to expect.