This actually looks like one of the better matchup weeks this season to survive in Hockey Survivor II as far as I’m concerned. Sidney Crosby’s apparently decided he wants to add a Rocket Richard trophy to his collection, Alexander Ovechkin loves the big-stage Saturday night games, and somebody has got to remind those Coyotes that they are not cup contenders.
Florida Panthers at Pittsburgh Penguins (Saturday at 7:30 PM) – The Panthers have won just once in their last 10, while the Penguins have won 6 times in that span. Sidney Crosby has also apparently decided that he is sick of all the attention Ovechkin is getting. He’s shooting the puck more, and is on pace to beat his career for goals in a season by a whopping 15. Add to that the fact that Marc-Andre Fleury’s game is starting to round into shape, and this should be an easy Pens win.
Prediction: Pittsburgh wins 5-1
Washington Capitals at Toronto Maple Leafs (Saturday at 7 PM) – I’m not necessarily a fan of picking the Maple Leafs to lose right now, as they’ve been playing some inspired hockey of late, but I’d pick the Caps to beat just about anyone on a Saturday night right now. Ovie’s suspensions and minor injuries haven’t hampered his play in the least when he’s been in the lineup, and he seems to love the atmosphere of Saturday night games in Original Six buildings. Look for Ovechkin and Co. to fill the score sheet in this high-scoring affair.
Prediction: Washington wins 6-3
San Jose Sharks at Phoenix Coyotes (Saturday at 8:00 PM): – The Coyotes are red-hot, and have won 5 straight leading into Thursday night’s game against the Kings. The Sharks on the other hand, are mired in a 3 game losing streak. The Sharks are, however, way too good to lose like this, and the Coyotes can’t keep this up forever. Look for the Sharks to snap the ‘Yotes’ winning streak if the Kings don’t beat them to it tonight.
Prediction: San Jose wins 3-2