2011 Winter Classic Ticket Lottery for Waiting List Members and General Public

Yesterday, the Penguins organization released a statement including more details about tickets for the 2011 Winter Class game between the Penguins and Capitals at Heinz Field this upcoming New Year's day.

The [Penguins] tickets remaining after they have been offered to the Season Ticket holders / Suite holders (who will be receiving letters from the organization shortly) and a block set aside for area youth hockey organizations, will be offered to members on the Season Ticket waiting list by way of lottery.

Keep in mind that the NHL as well as the Washington Capitals (and from what I'm hearing / reading, the Pittsburgh Steelers) will have their own allotment of tickets).

Whatever is left after all is said and done, will be sold to the general public also by way of lottery.  Information regarding will be released sometime in October or November.

Ponikarovsky to LA Kings

Yesterday the LA Kings announced that they signed former Pittsburgh Penguin Alex Ponikarovski to a one-year contract woth $3,200,000 which is a pretty decent raise from last season's contract with the Penguins ($2,500,000 / one-year).  It was a similar situation with Rob Scuderi who signed with the Kings and garnered a pretty hefty raise prior to the 2009-2010 season (he's currently making $3,400,00 / season).

I was seriously hoping that Poni would work out with the Pens ... he was once a great player and I'm not so sure if its been a matter of "fit" or being past his prime ... for LA's sake, let's hope they're the right "fit!"

"[Ovechkin] is a Real Douche!"

I think this may rank right up there with "Shhh" and his 2009 SCF GWG (Game 7) among Pens Nation!!

Yesterday, Mad Max Talbot was being interviewed by 105.9 The X and held nothing back especially when it came to his thoughts on Ovechkin ... he pretty much summed up what all Pens fans believe, "... this guy is a real douche!"

CLICK HERE to listen for yourself!!

... and HERE to read TSN's article, "PENGUINS' TALBOT BLASTS OVECHKIN DURING RADIO INTERVIEW"

But let's cut Talbot a break, shall we, because after all ...

Lemieux and Crosby Skate at Consol!

Well, with the opening of the Consol Energy Center quickly approaching and recent news of the ice being installed there's been buzz around the internet as to who would be the first to skate on the pristine surface of the Pens new home.

What more perfect christening of the new ice at CEC than to have both Crosby and Lemieux skate on it together -- TOO SWEET!!!  And just look at them ... they both look happier than pigs in ... dirt   ; P What a seriously awesome sight!

Lemieux and Crosby hit the ice at 2 p.m. wearing Penguins warmups. The two skated a few laps, passed a couple of pucks back and forth and took several shots on goal during their session.

I really don't want to wish away my summer, but the more talk of the CEC, the more I can't wait for October to get here!!!

Presenting ...

the 2011 Winter Classic logo and a "mock-up" of what the ice will look like on the field!!  CHECK BACK LATER FOR MORE DETAILS / INFORMATION!!!

photos courtesy of Capitals Insider

The Pens Lose Their "Voice"

Last night long-time PA announcer for the Pittsburgh Penguins, John Barbero, lost his long battle with a brain tumor.

"On behalf of the entire Penguins organization, I want to express our deepest sympathy to John's family," said Lemieux, now the team's owner. "John was one of a kind, a true professional, and he always will be remembered as a member of the Penguins family. He will be missed."


You may not have known his name, but I can guarantee that you know (and will forever remember) his voice if you attended any games prior to the 2009-2010 season.  He was the voice of the Penguins at the Igloo for four decades.  It was just something that you took for granted, but you [have felt] will feel the void now that it's gone.  His voice was melodius and "easy on the ears."  And its a voice that will forever remain part of Penguins history in that he's made many memorable calls for some of the most unforgettable Penguins moments and it seems only appropriate that his legacy ends around the same time the Igloo's does.

May you rest in peace, Mr. Barbero, I would hope that I can hear you call a Penguins game once again if I ever make my way to Heaven! : )

If you would like to learn about John Barbero and his history with the Penguins organization, VISIT THE PENGUINS WEBPAGE HERE!!

Crosby One of Four Players Featured on 2011 All-Star Banner

Yesterday, the Carolina Hurricanes unveiled the logo for the 2011 All-Star Game which the team will be hosting at the end of January.

“The primary color of the logo is a tribute to the Hurricanes and their legion of fans, the ‘Caniacs,’ who display their team pride by wearing red during home games at the RBC Center. Also, the holding shape is consistent with the Hurricanes’ primary logo. With the 2011 NHL All-Star Game being played in the state capital of North Carolina, Raleigh, and the popularity of the Hurricanes stretching well beyond the Triangle, inspiration for the banners along the top and bottom of the logo is derived from the official flag of the state of North Carolina.”

A banner featuring four of today's brightest NHL stars will be applied as a window treatment on the west side of the RBC Plaza facing, Fayetteville Street to promote the All-Star weekend.  Application of the window treatment will begin this week and should be finished this Saturday for the Raleigh Wide Open 5.  The banner is 5,000 square feet!

Winter Classic News Conference Set for Tomorrow

The Penguins just announed that a press conference will be held tomorrow at Heinz Field at 12 o'clock noon.

Headlining the list of speakers expected to address the media ... are NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, Penguins chairman Mario Lemieux, Penguins president David Morehouse, Penguins captain Sidney Crosby and Steelers president Art Rooney II.

Others expected to be present are GM Ray Shero, Pittsburgh players Maxime Talbot and Pascal Dupuis along with Pittsburgh mayor Luke Ravenstahl and Allegheny County executive Dan Onorato to represent the city of Pittsburgh.

Representing the Washington Capitals will be president Dick Patrick, GM George McPhee and Washington players Mike Knuble and David Steckel.

Probably the most exciting part is that they'll be unveiling the 2011 Winter Classic logo as well as a mockup of where the ice rink will sit on the Heinz Field surface!!

The event will be emcee'd by NBC and VERSUS play-by-play announcer Doc Emrick and coverage will be provided by the NHL Network and STREAMED LIVE on the Penguins webpage (who will also provide "behind-the-scenes" coverage with video and pictures)!!

HOW EXCITING!!!

As a SIDENOTE: the Penguins NEW third / alternate jersey (replacing the baby blues) will debut at the Winter Classic on January 1st, but details won't be released to the public until the fall.

My Condolences

to the entire Cowher and Young families for the passing of Kaye Cowher, wife of former Steelers head coach Bill Cowher.

Yesterday, Kaye lost her battle with skin cancer; she was only 54.  She leaves behind her husband, Bill, along with three daughters, Meagan, Lauren, and Lindsay; and twin sister, Faye.  To learn more about the life of Mrs. Cowher, VISIT THE PPG which has a really nice article in today's paper.

My thoughts and prayers go out to her entire family at this difficult time (Steelers Nation / Pittsburgh mourns the loss with all of you!).

Pens Sign D-Man

s

The Penguins announced this afternoon that they've signed defenseman Corey Potter to a one-year, two-way contract that pays him $500,000 at the NHL level.

Potter has played the majority of his career for the Rangers AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, but has played eight games on the Rangers NHL roster.

Another one for WBS.

Pics from Pens Development Camp

THANKS to my friend, Lisa, who attended yesterday's practice session at the Iceoplex in Southpointe I'm able to post some really great pics she took!!

ENJOY!!

Crosby Now ESPY's Most Awarded NHL Player

For the fourth straight year, Sidney Crosby was crowned "Best National Hockey League Player" by the fans at last night's ESPY Awards.

He also won, as part of Team Canada during the 2010 Olympics, the ESPY Award for "Best Game" for defeating Team USA for the Gold.

Crosby has now won more ESPYs than any other NHL player since the awards were created in 1993. He broke a tie with current Penguins owner Mario Lemieux, who won the ESPY three times (1993, 1994 and 1998).

I Sure Hope Bennet Plays Hockey Better than He Bowls!!

Beau Bennett gave the Penguins official webpage his take on this week's development camp so far and says he enjoyed hanging out with the guys to finishi out their long day yesterday by going bowling.  He also confessed that even though he warmed up after awhile and his team ultimately won he's not the greatest of bowlers (and was his team's "weak link").

We finished the day with a bowling competition. Our team was pretty good. The first game I was definitely the worst player on my team. I bowled like a 70. I had 19 pins through five frames. It’s not a good start. I got better as the games went on. I was the weak link in the first game and then scored second highest in the second game. I had a quick learning curve. I got the ball straight down the middle more times than not in the second game.

His team consisted of Brian Strait, Reid McNeil, Tom Fitzgerald, Casey Pierro-Zabotel and Keven Vellieux.

I think the most impressive statement throughout the whole article is this (it tells me the kid is on the right track / has the right frame of mind, for sure!):

It’s unreal playing with guys who’ve been there before, played NHL games like Tangradi and Jeffrey. I’m playing with Jeffrey right now. I’m just trying to take it all in, watch what he’s doing a little bit, learn from him and keep getting better as the week goes on.

TO READ MORE, CLICK HERE

Former Penguin Sydor Announces Retirement

Originally a #1 draft pick (7th overall) by the LA Kings in 1990, Darryl Sydor is finally calling it quits after 18 NHL seasons.  Pittsburgh was among six teams (LA, Columbus, Tampa Bay, St. Louis, and the most in Dallas) Sydor has played for over those 18 seasons.

“Darryl was a true pro throughout his entire career and especially for the St. Louis Blues organization,” said Blues President John Davidson.

“I’ve known Darryl for a long time and he is truly one of the classiest professionals I have seen in this league,” said Blues General Manager Doug Armstrong. “I wish nothing but success in the future for Darryl, his wife Sharlene and sons Parker, Braden, Dylan and Cooper.”

On this Date in Pittsburgh Penguins History

2006
Ed Johnston is named Penguins Senior Advisor/Hockey Operations

Photo Gallery (But NO Reports) from Training Camp Yet

I've been pretty much waiting all day just for a morsel of what's going on at today's prospect camp and NOTHING (probably because yesterday wasn't officially anything big except for meetings) and actual practice doesn't start until 3 PM today ... so I should probably just be patient, but that's like asking your dog to balance that biscuit on his nose all day long (I'm hockey-starved and need a quick fix!)!!

Well, it turns out the Penguins webpage just posted a gallery of photos from today's medical and fitness testing at the UPMC Sports Medicine Complex in South Side (and hopefully my readers will come through for me later on today!)!! ; )

TO VIEW THE GALLERY, CLICK HERE

CONFIRMED: Penguins Extend Conner's Contract

[UPDATE]
The Penguins webpage just confirmed this by posting it on the official webpage ... its a one-year / two-way contract (paying him $550,000 at the NHL level).

Not much information confirming this but according to CapGeek.com, the Penguins resigned Chris Conner for another year ($550,000 at the NHL level).

Move to Consol Energy Center Begins

Yesterday, the Pens move into the new Consol Energy Center began as the corporate offices were the first to settle into their new home.

This move will have the business offices rejoin other team operations after being separated due to the expansion of the arena with club seating back in 1997.

"It's like being a kid in the candy store, brand new office space. It’s the first tangible thing that we are able to see in moving into the new arena. Its been a long time coming,” said Travis Williams, Vice President of Business Affairs.

Interestingly enough the two team owners, Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle, will share the smallest office space in the entire building!

In addition to moving into the new space, they've also started raising the championship banners and retired numbers as well (finishing touches before the start of the season).

CLICK HERE TO VIEW VIDEO FROM KDKA

2010 Development Camp Begins Tomorrow for Pens Prospects

The Penguins announced last week that their 2010 Development Camp will begin this Tuesday, July 13th (the rookies and prospects arrived today and a team meeting will be held) and runs through Saturday, July 17th.

All on-ice sessions held at the Iceoplex at Southpointe are open to the public (T, W, F, Sat beginning at 3 PM).

Coach and training staff conducting the camp are Todd Reirden (WBS head coach), John Hynes (WBS assistant coach), Tom Fitzgerald (Pens assistant to the GM), Gilles Meloche (Pens goalie coach) and Mike Kadar (Pens strength and conditioning coach).  I have not been able to find a complete listing of the players that will be participating in this week's camp, but if I eventually do, I'll be sure to post it here!)!!

FOR A COMPLETE SCHEDULE OF THIS WEEK'S CAMP, VISIT THE PENGUINS OFFICIAL WEBPAGE

ALSO, if any readers plan on attending any / all of the camp and take pictures that they'd be willing to share, PLEASE EMAIL ME at thesteelcitysportsfan@gmail.com!!

HOT Diggity-Dog!!!

Since all of you were kind enough to post and send me and my family your well-wishes (for our doggie, Sabrina), I figured that its only right to take the time to thank all of you ... your thoughts and prayers helped get us through and we'll be traveling to bring Sabrina home sometime today!!

Her surgery went well and she's doing fine (the vet was able to remove a large and smaller mass on her liver that were pushing into her stomach making it hard for her to eat) ... we're just waiting for the official call this morning so that we know when to be on our way to bring our baby home!!! : )

Again, THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF OUR HEARTS for all the prayers kind words you've expressed that have carried us through this rough time ... its meant the world to all of us!!

Penguins Sign Another Defenseman

The Penguins just announced that they signed defenseman Andrew Hutchinson to a one-year, two-way contract (that will pay him $500,000 at the NHL level). 

He's coming from Dallas' AHL affiliate the Texas Stars (and it doesn't appear that he played last season), so this will be another player to fill the void in WB / S lineup.

NEWSFLASH: NHL Network Re-Broadcasting 35 Cup-Clinching Games!!

Wanna relive the Stanley Cup winning games again??  Then THIS IS FOR YOU!!!

35 Years of Stanley Cup Clinchers 1975-2010

CLICK HERE FOR FULL SCHEDULE

(all episodes begin at 8:00 PM, est)

KEY DATES
(for any Penguins fan!):
Tuesday, July 27th
Game #6, Pittsburgh over Minnesota (1991)

Wednesday, July 28th
Game #4, Pittsburgh over Chicago (1992)

Thursday, August 19th
Pittsburgh over Detroit (2009)

THANKS to my little "NHL diva," Maureen, for passing this incredible tid-bit along for every hockey fan to enjoy!!  It actually started on Monday and will run every weekday through the end of August (the last week of August being "Fans' Choice Encore #1 - #5")!!

Just One of Those Things

Once again, something unexpected has come up which takes me from the blog.  My husband and I have been struggling with the "illness" of one of our dogs.  I put "illness" in quotations because she hasn't been acting sick at all, but since April she's lost close to 20 pounds and one day last week we discovered that she has a large growth on / near / around her liver.

Struggling comes in the form of multiple visits to the vet last week (including a second opinion) to ultimately lead us to Pittsburgh today.  We had a scheduled appointment today, but didn't do much other than talk to one of the surgeons there. We were to have an ultrasound done, but the doctors who do those were gone for the day so we had no choice but to leave her there over night and make the trip back home without her.

Luckily this hasn't been long and drawn-out; however, its about all we can handle for right now and we won't be able to breathe until we hear from the doctor tomorrow after the ultrasound and, ultimately, after the probable surgery.  We've been hoping for the best, but expecting the worst although the surgeon we spoke to today has been the most optimistic out of everyone and until we get the call and make the trip to pick her up, we'll be missing and sad for our little Sabrina (along with her sister and brother - Sadie and Benji)!!

So now you guys now when I haven't been posting must last and this week.  I apologize, but sometimes things take precedence and this is one of those times ... I will be back up to speed hopefully sooner rather than later!!

Pens Sign Two Forwards

Yesterday, the Penguins signed Ryan Craig formerly of the TB Lightning and signed Brett Sterling formerly of the Atlanta Thrashers AHL affiliate today.  Both are forwards and were signed to a one-year, two-way contract worth $500,000 (at the NHL level).

With the length and type of contracts, it would appear that these two will be playing for the WB / S Baby Pens (and perhaps they'll be moving a player or two to the NHL roster on a more permanent basis).

Mark Eaton to the Islanders

With Shero picking up two of the bigger defensemen in UFA yesterday, you just knew that there probably wasn't any room for Mark Eaton.

Eaton just signed with the NY Islanders for 2 years at $2.5 million / year.

YOU'LL BE MISSED, MARK!!

Paul Martin on Madden TODAY!!

The Pens webpage announced today that one of our newest defenseman, Paul Martin, will be on the Mark Madden show at 3:00 PM today ...

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN LIVE!!!

Hamhuis and Leopold Sign Elsewhere

Not only did we lose Gonchar to Ottawa today, we were able to lock up 2 of the Top 5 UFA defenseman by signing Zbynek Michalek and Paul Martin for five years each; we also lost a pair of defensemen (and a 2011 third-round draft pick) as well.

The Pens acquired the rights to Dan Hamhuis from the Philadelphia Flyers during the first day of the draft in exchange for a third-round draft pick in next year's draft.  It was never a guarantee that we would sign Hamhuis, but I believe it was probably worth the risk (a third-round draft pick isn't that much to give up).  Speculation that Hamhuis wanted to play closer to home was confirmed today with his signing with the Vancouver Canucks (a lengthy 6-year deal worth $4.5 million / year).

I traded for Dan Hamhuis with the intention of signing Dan Hamhuis. When that didn’t seem to be coming to fruition – and we tried really hard to sign him – we wanted to see what else was out there. We made it very clear that his best chance to be a Penguin was before noon (on Thursday).

It’s competitive to get defensemen when they are free agents. If I have to spend a third-round draft pick to try to get a step up on someone – which in the end we didn’t get Dan Hamhuis but we got two other guys. I had four days to talk to Dan Hamhuis and I didn’t have to spend time talking to him today. If I didn’t have that opportunity maybe I would have missed out on somebody.

-- Ray Shero, Penguins GM

With all the talk centered around Gonch and Hamhuis prior to today's free agency, not much has been heard about Pittsburgh's other UFAs.  Although, today was pretty quiet in terms of Pittsburgh signing players and players signing with other teams (as far as all the activity that could've taken place ... there are plenty of players that are still "up in the air" such as Mark Eaton, Bill Guerin, etc.).

Jordan Leopold was the only other player to sign a deal today.  He's now with the Buffalo Sabres for three years.

With only about $2 million left under the cap there's probably not much more the Pens / Shero will be doing (according to Rob Rossi, Shero will wait it out to see what's left / how to spend the rest of that money); however, I believe they took care of a major concern for the team by addressing the blueline in a BIG WAY which definitely makes up for what we "lost."

TSN: Martin to Pittsburgh (5 AT 5!)!!

Rob Rossi reporting that he just got word "Pens HAVE Martin" and the TSC 2010 UFA Tracker is also posting that Martin is, in fact, a Penguin!!!  FIVE YEARS AT $5 MILLION / YEAR!!!

I'm reading from more and more sources that Pens have picked up Martin, but still waiting for OFFICIAL confirmation!!

According to Scott Burnside of ESPN, the Pens have signed Paul Martin (formerly of the Minnesota Wild) ... will update as I get more info!!

It's CONFIRMED: Pens Sign Z. Michalek

ITS BEEN CONFIRMED ... read it on the Pens webpage

According to TSN 2010 UFA Tracker, the Pens signed Zbynek Michalek (formerly of the Phoenix Coyotes) for FIVE YEARS, a total of $20 million ($4 million / year).

It's OFFICIAL ... Gonchar Signs with Ottawa

IT'S OFFICIAL ... read it on the Sens webpage

According to the TSN 2010 Sortable UFA Tracker, Sergei Gonchar has signed with the Ottawa Senators for 3 years for a total of $16.5 ($5.5 / year) ... farewell Gonchar ... I kinda figured it would end up this way (I guess team chemistry and a Stanley Cup isn't as important to him as the money)!