In-Game Reaction: Pens hold optional skate during Rangers game; fall behind 5-1 after 2

By Artistry

With no Sid, Letang, Martin, Juice [that's going to be my nickname for Jussi Jokinen - I just decided it] or Eaton, and three new guys getting folded into the lineup, there is no reason to get overly dramatic about this debacle at MSG, or even to take it seriously at all. Hey, the Penguins aren't. But there are only 10 games after this one until the playoffs begin, so let me humbly offer some observations.

Where's that smile?

- Aside from ensuring Marc-Andre Fleury doesn't go into a tailspin right now, the biggest thing I'd like to see over the next couple of weeks is Geno regaining his form. He has 5 goals on the season, and with Crosby out, I expect him to double that total down the stretch.

- Brooks Orpik is thoroughly exposed in this role as a top pairing defenseman without an elite partner. This is no surprise at all, but it doesn't make it any easier to watch.

- Brandon Sutter needs to find the place between greatness and invisibility and occupy it more often.

- Brenden Morrow looked considerably more effective playing with Geno and Neal, when he didn't have to be the guy on the puck at all. He could concentrate on drawing defenders to him in front of the net. Not sure how best to utilize him yet, but I'm a touch worried about the current fit. Like Crankshaft, he needs to play with guys who can cover for his deficiencies (read: stop playing Crankshaft with Brooks Orpik).

- I think I speak for all of us when I say, I love you Jarome Iginla.