5 Reasons the Penguins Should Make a Deep Playoff Run

OK, fine. The Penguins didn't take first place off the NY Rangers in the Eastern Conference like many of us thought they would. But the Penguins are looking good for a strong playoff run. Here are 5 Reasons the Pens should go deep into the Playoffs:

5. Sid the Kid is back! I know, it's blasphemy that I didn't list this as #1. But it's not #1. Crosby is back and playing well. He brings unbelievable depth to the Pen's offense. His leadership and puck skills are second to none. Since Crosby's return on March 15th, he has scored 6 goals and tallied 19 assists. His return will be a key reason for the Penguin's success. Although, I have to admit, they would still be there without Sid. They are just that good this year.

4. Kris LeTang is back and healthy. LeTang is great defensive player, and an anchor of the Penguins Power Play. Kris being back and healthy is a big plus.

3. The Penguins 3rd Line. Pascal Dupuis, Jordan Staal, and Steve Sullivan form the best 3rd line in the league, maybe the best 3rd line in the history of the NHL. They would be the 1st line on most teams. The trio has totaled for 138 points this season.

2. The Power Play is Back!! The Penguins are 5th in the NHL on the Power Play and 3rd in Penalty Killing going into the Playoffs. They were 1st in Penalty Killing last season, but they ranked a pathetic 25th on the Power Play. This vast improvement will be a huge factor in a strong playoff run.

1. Evgeni Malkin, this years Art Ross Trophy winner! Geno scored 50 goals for the first time in his career and did a great job of leading this team during Crosby's absence. The first line of Kunitz, Malkin, and Neal has been explosive this year with 106 goals and 176 points. With Geno and Crosby both on the ice, the Penguins are the clear favorite to win Lord Stanley's Cup.