Will the Penguins finally figure out how to solve Playoffs Henrik Lundqvist?
Honestly, I really think they will. On the other hand, I don’t believe any of the stories of the Pens finally getting to Henrik Lundqvist during the “pushing the net off its moorings” freakout of early March.
Yes, they’ve had success in the 2.5 games since then but they’re also a much better team than they were the previous two years. He’ll come to play the same way he always does, there’s no real question about that.
I mean, the guy hasn’t been below a .927 save percentage in the last four postseasons! He’ll be stellar, and that’s that. Even though he’s under the weather now, he’s an all-world goalie and will probably be great.
But this Penguins team is not the same as ones of years past. Mike Sullivan has this team pushing the envelope, shift after shift after shift, and with the resiliency and fight and passion they’ve shown in the second half of the season I just don’t see them getting frustrated and rattled like they might in the last few seasons.
Could Lundqvist post a shutout in game 1? Absolutely. But instead of being worried he had gotten in their heads and the series being over before it started, I feel much more confident in the idea the Pens will come even harder the next night and put five past him.
I’ll make the bold prediction right now that his four year run of .927 or above save percentages will come to an end this year.
Next: A Final Prediction...