Pens Streaking Under Bylsma

Since Dan Bylsma took over as head coach on February 15 the Penguins have compiled an outstanding record of 7-1-1 and have been able to move into playoff contention because of this. They have won 4 of 4 on the road - a huge win last night against the Florida Panthers, whom the Pens are battling for a playoff spot - and the last 5consecutive. They have not put this many wins together since a streak of 6 back in November. Bylsma has instituted his system, which encompasses aggressive playmaking by both forwards and defensemen, rugged stand-up defense at the blue line and the team has bought into it. Quickly and whole-heartedly.

The trade deadline moves that GM Ray Shero put together could prove to be the difference maker. Shero traded for the New York Islanders veteran Bill Guerin on Wednesday and earlier traded Ryan Whitney to the Ducks for forward Chris Kunitz. Both Kunitz and Guerin played on the first line with Sidney Crosby last night. This line combination looks to be formidable and immediately made a difference in the game. Guerin assisted on the Pens first goal by Crosby and Kunitz has made a difference with his ability to play in front of the net as well as being an aggressive playmaker on the boards. Guerin should prove to be able to play with Sid as very few others are capable of once the two play a few more games with each other.

Whether or not the Penguins will make the playoffs remains to be seen. If they can continue performing at the high level they have in the past nine games it could be inevitable.