Key #1: Speed over Strength
The Pittsburgh Penguins are a team built on speed. The San Jose Sharks are a team built on size and strength. The Penguins need to do what they've been doing ever since Mike Sullivan took over as head coach and overwhelm teams with their ability to fly. If they can do that, they will be in good shape.
Key #2: Contain Shoeless Joe
Joe Pavelski has been the most dominant hockey player of this postseason. His 13 goals speak for themselves, and he wears the C for San Jose with pride. The Penguins defense has a tough task at hand, and Olli Matta will need to continue to perform his stellar work in stepping up for the wounded Trevor Daly on defense. The Penguins will also have to beware of another Joe (Thornton) and a Joel (Ward). The Pens defense will not get a pardon, but I think they will be up to the task.
Key #3: Protect home ice.
There is no understating how crucial the first two games of this series will be. The San Jose Sharks have been an NHL franchise since 1991. How long did it take for the Pittsburgh Penguins to win a game in San Jose? Till 2015. Nearly 24 years. So, it doesn't take a neuro surgeon to figure out that things will not come easy at the SAP Center. Win at home.
Final Prediction: Pens in 5
This team is special. This team is exciting. This team is talented. The Pittsburgh Penguins have it all, and they have come too far to be eaten by Sharks. I say Pens in 5 because;
1. They are due to have a short series and
2. They are due to win the cup at home.
This team is ready for a title. This city deserves to watch their club hoist Lord Stanley's Cup in our house. And it will happen. Believe that.
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