What MATTers : Penguins Prevail, Butt 21 Years of History

The Pittsburgh Penguins put on a historic display last night, with their 2-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning, in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals. For the first time since 1995, Pittsburgh won a Game 7 on its home ice. Previously, the Pens had lost 3 consecutive affairs. While it wasn't just a coincidence, the team ought to be proud of its efforts. The defense held the Lightning to a single goal and 17 shots. Rookie G Matt Murray played lights out, making save after save, including stoning Lightning star Steven Stamkos on a breakaway. The offense got the job done. Pittsburgh tallied the game's first goal in the second period, and responded 30 seconds following Tampa's tying marker. Thus the total team effort, plus the raucous crowd at CONSOL Energy Center, the Penguins earned their berth in the 2016 Stanley Cup Final.
I don't know what it is about this year's Penguins team. They are playing well, solid hockey, at the right time. The team has overcome a quite deal of adversity - a new coach mid season, the retirement of iron man Pascal Dupuis, and acquisition of minor pieces at the trade deadline (which have thrived, by the way!). All considered, this feels like the Pens' year to take the Cup. Whatever the outcome, 2015-2016 has been such a magnificent ride. Nobody saw this coming. It would only be sweeter than sugar if the Penguins can defeat the Western Conference's San Jose Sharks for the championship.