Penguins News Notes and Other Stuff
The Pittsburgh Penguins had an off day today after their win against the New York Rangers. Fleury was named the number one star, and it was well deserved for his 22nd shut out of his career. It was being reported by some local news outlets that he had tied Tom Barrasso for Franchise record. Well, according to 2 sources, they were wrong.
According to the Penguins Official Website, Barraso had 19 Career shut outs, and according to several other websites including Hockey-reference.com he had 21. Either way, the local outlets were wrong, he now has the franchise record unless I can dig up another site that tells me different.
Fleury’s backup for last night Brad Thiessen, was sent back down to Wilkes Barre. Brent Johnson who was reportedly sick must be feeling better or is well enough to resume the role. Then again, do not be surprised if you see them call up Thiessen again for this weekends back to back games.
In other Penguins news, or should I say, No news…There is absolutely no buzz about any possible deals that involve the Pittsburgh Penguins right now. The few sources that initially had some thoughts or possibilities have retracted all of them because the players suggested have all moved to other teams. The Penguins GM Ray Shero released a statement a few days ago stating that he felt good about the team the way it is, and it will probably stay in tact with little movement.
They do have a couple of weaker links, including Paul Martin who has struggled Mightily this season. He has been much better in the past seasons, but because of injuries and such, his play has been as inconsistent as his line mates. Martin played with Letang yesterday as Orpik sat out for the night, and he played what could have been the best game this year.
In Pittsburgh Penguins Farm System news, the AHL and ECHL Affiliates both are in contention of making the Playoffs this season. Wilkes Barre is among division leaders with 69 points and the Wheeling Nailers are also among conference leaders in points with 63 and in the top 5 in the conference. This shows the depth of the farm system that Mario and his team has put together. The Wilkes Barre Team has been picked apart this year because of call ups and they have maintained such a high level of play. The same can be said for Wheeling, as when the Wilkes Barre team was raided, so to was the Wheeling team. Another amazing stat to back up the Stellar play of the farm teams is the fact that the Wilkes Barre team is leading the AHL with 20 road wins. They have become the real “Road Warriors” of the league.
In Wheeling Nailers news, the team still remains up for sale as the Brooks Brothers continue to shop the team. The asking price is in the Mid 6 figure range, and the brothers have stated they would love to keep the team in Wheeling. Wheeling is celebrating there 20th anniversary which is really impressive when it comes to Minor League Sports.