Ray SHERO on Yesterday's SIGNINGS

Pittsburgh Tribune-Review has an article today regarding the signing of Beech, Stone, and Thomas featuring Ray Shero's thoughts on these 3 forwards.

Shero on Bill THOMAS:

"It's really a great story," said Shero, referring to the signing of Thomas. "He's got good skills and NHL strength and that's what we're looking for. We hope it's exciting for him to get signed to his hometown team."

"(Thomas has) a chance like other guys to compete for a job on the team," Shero said.

Shero on Kris BEECH:

"We expect him to compete for a job," Shero said. "He has good NHL experience and good offensive skills so that signing made sense to us."

Shero on Ryan STONE:

"He spent three years in the organization, and we wanted to bring him back," Shero said. "It seems to be a good time for him to crack our lineup. He played well for Wilkes- Barre/Scranton, and he played a big part in leading them to the Calder Cup final. He's a young guy that appears to be getting better and can compete for a spot."

As signings continue I think that the Pittsburgh Penguins are shaping up; however, I agreed with Jory Rand last night on the Nightly Sports Call when he voiced his concern about the chemistry (before Ron Cook chimed in with his smartass reply that chemistry has nothing to do with it). Oh really you cranky bastard? Then why did the Penguins go as far as they did this past season?! The players themselves repeatedly told the media that what their team had was something special with the way they got along on and off the ice. AND what was the situation just the season prior? Yes, they made it to the playoffs, but lost in the first round. No one defended Sidney Crosby let alone anyone else on the team while on the ice - I remember because John and I would get so fired up about it - HIT SOMEBODY!! Anyway, I think it makes a world of difference! Your opinion means NOTHING, Ron Cook - you know nothing of your ass from a hole in the ground!! And I'll end it here!