CBC Sports

HockeyDo the Penguins have enough gusto left?

Posted: Tuesday, June 2, 2009 | 04:08 PM

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Just left lunch with Kelly Hrudey and again I had to pay for him.

We watched the Penguins and Red Wings strut their stuff this morning in the pre-game skate and we kept asking ourselves if there is enough gusto left in the Penguins to make a series out of this.

Last year was the same scenario. Detroit led two games to nil and Pittsburgh was faced with the challenge of winning Game 3. The Penguins did, 3-2. This year is different though and I don't think they have enough in their tanks. Everyone at the rink this morning is kind of pulling for Sid and the Penguins in their hearts. Unfortunately, in their heads, everyone thinks the series is all but done.

I'm really not thinking about hockey though, I'm more concerned about the fact that I always get stuck paying for Kelly's food and drinks. He keeps calling it rookie initiation or pulls the "oops, forgot my wallet" line. Since we've been travelling in the USA and our roaming charges are going through the roof, he's even tried the "oops, sorry, forgot my celly. Can I borrow yours for a few minutes?" And, of course, he calls China for 25 minutes.

I’m going to do my best and focus on the remainder of the series here for a second, but you have to understand my frustration. Now, I feel better. Everyone needs to vent every now and then. I'm a complainer. Others may kick dogs or punch holes in walls, which is the stupidest thing I can think of. Whatever you were mad about add in a sore hand and broken wall to the list too.

So where was I … oh yeah, hockey. Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins. Stanley Cup finals.

I'd love to sit here today, at this moment and tell all of you that this is a great series and it’s going to get even better. Pittsburgh is really going to even things up in the next couple of games and force a deciding Game 7, but … I'd be lying.

After watching the first two games and the latest morning skate, I'm worried that Detroit is just too good. I'm not sure if they can be beaten. There's even a chance they might get Datsyuk back for Game 4. Imagine the Wings adding the NHL's MVP and Selke trophy nominee to their already star-studded lineup?

In my heart, I'm pulling for them. In my head, I think the fat lady is warming up.

I'll keep y’all posted.

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