The Penguins defeated the Blackhawks 3-2 in a shootout on Monday night but the result is insignificant to say the least. Not only was this a preseason game, but the Hawks played without five of their top six forwards (Toews, Kane, Sharp, Hossa, Saad) as well as their top defensive pairing (Keith, Seabrook).
However, there are some observations worth noting in the Penguins’ fifth preseason game:
Jeff Zatkoff looked strong for the Penguins which has suddenly become important since Tomas Vokoun has been sidelined while recovering from surgery to dissolve a blood clot in his hip. The 26 year old stopped 30 of 32 shots including a diving save on a shot that bounced off the boards. With Fleury continuing to struggle, the Penguins might need to lean on their back up more than they want this season. Zatkoff’s confidence and ability to take good angles on shots could make him a viable piece throughout the regular season.
Letang looked extremely confident with both his shot and decision making. It’s pretty clear Rob Scuderi is a much better defensive partner than Mark Eaton or Simon Despres. Letang scored both goals for the Penguins, showing off his entire skill set in the process. On the first goal, Letang anticipated a breakout pass, stole the puck, and beat Nikolai Khabibulin on a backhand shot. Later in the third period, Letang blasted a perfectly placed shot past the goaltender from the left point on the power play.
Letang is at his best when he can free roam in the offensive zone and Rob Scuderi give Letang the confidence to do just that.
The second line of Evgeni Malkin, Beau Bennett, and James Neal created a lot of chances and seemed to own the puck for a couple shifts late in the game. Bennett might not have as strong of a shot as Malkin or Neal, but his vision and playmaking skills fit perfectly with the star forwards. The only issue with this line is discipline. Beau Bennett took two penalties and James Neal added a minor as well. With Malkin usually near the top in PIM for the team, along with Neal’s tendency to be a hot head at times, the Penguins will need Bennett to stay out of the box as much as possible.
Robert Bortuzzo and Simon Despres looked sluggish and slow. The Blackhawks forwards skated circles around both players and neither of them won a lot of puck battles. Despres has been in the doghouse for being out of shape at the start of camp, especially after Bylsma stuck his neck out for the young defenseman after the 2013 playoffs concluded. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot of competition pushing for their spots. Olli Maatta had moments but he’s still inexperienced, while Brian Dumoulin is working his way back from injury.
Photo courtesy of Pittsburgh Blitz
