What MATTers : Consistency the Key for Penguins to Earn Playoff Berth

The Pittsburgh Penguins will play 9 more regular season games in the next 2 weeks. Lately, the team has been on a roll, their 6 game winning streak abruptly ending last night, at home against the New Jersey Devils. Despite the loss, it does not spell trouble for the team's playoff hopes. Currently, the Penguins sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division, one point ahead of fourth place New York Islanders, who play the Tampa Bay Lightning this evening. Given this closeness, Pittsburgh must continue to play consistently in order to qualify for the 2016 NHL playoffs. The Penguins are 7-2 over their last 9 games. Sidney Crosby had a 12 game point streak. Kris Letang has been registering points like a crazed maniac. The defense is holding it down, along with the goaltending play. IF Pittsburgh can continue to score, play timely defense, and earn points, the team will be in prime position to extend its playoff run to 10 consecutive seasons. However, the power play must improve. 6 for its previous 63 attempts is not good enough. Opportunities in the playoffs come at a premium. The Penguins cannot afford to waste chances with the man advantage to put goals on the board.
The road ahead is not easy with games at Detroit and the NY Rangers on Saturday and Sunday, respectively. As the Pens are battling both clubs in the standings. Also keep in mind the Pens play the Flyers twice in the final 9, which includes dates with the Nashville Predators (home), NY Islanders (away), and the NHL's best, Washington Capitals (away). Certainly, if the Penguins can somehow navigate these games, a slot in the NHL's postseason will be deserved.
Power to our Penguins and let's continue to watch the excitement unfold.