Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Injuries Still Plaguing the Penguins?

With yesterday's announcement of Chris Kunitz undergoing surgery today for a torn abdomen muscle that has been nagging him over the past few weeks (possibly months) and his absence from the lineup for 4-6 weeks, it makes one wonder whether or not this could be an issue and one of the team's reasons for the "poor" showing over the previous five-games creating the losing streak that they broke yesterday with their 6-2 win over the Atlanta Thrashers.

Who else could possibly be "ailing" ... Malkin? I honestly think his is a mental hurdle and strongly believe that this kid may put alot of pressure on himself - the harder he tries, the more he doesn't get what he wants accomplished. Although he didn't score any goals in yesterday's game (even over the past five games), he's always good for an amazing pass or creating scoring possibilities (and they're just as valuable as a goal ... who cares who scores as long as it's contributing to the success of the team!) ... look at the Caputi goal ... AMAZING!!

And how about Talbot? He was a healthy scratch last night making that the third time this season since his return to the lineup. What's going on with him? The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review posted a short 'blurb' today about head coach Bylsma eluding to the fact that Talbot may still be having a hard time getting back to 100% even though his surgery and rehabilitation was successful.
"I wouldn't recommend getting shoulder surgery if you need to rehab," Bylsma said. "It's long and it's hard. You deal with a lot of pains even when you know you're healthy."
So the team's shortcomings may just be more than meets the eye!!

2 comments:

Unknown said...

I was at last night's game, and I was surprised at Malkin's poor showing. He had numerous turnovers and was often out of position. He had occasional bursts of energy, however, when he seemed determined to score. He'll get out of his funk soon enough...I'm not at all worried.

It was nice to hear the crowd chanting his name in support...though I wonder if that doesn't just make him more self-conscious.

Stephanie said...

Good game to be at, Daniel!!

He does concentrate too hard on making things happen although I'm really glad to hear that the Igloo was chanting his name (they could be booing him!)!! When they did that, did he have a burst of energy of was he making mistakes ... my guess would be that he would enjoy that; however, Malkin has always been content with giving the spotlight to Sid.

I'll be at the game tomorrow which I'm excited about - I LOVE being there when they play Philly (I hope there's some fights!)!! ; )

THANKS (as always) for posting a comment!!! : )