So, the Pens now have 69 points in 56 games, or a 1.23 points per game average. Projection of season average would indicate a finish at 101 points, probably good enough for Top 5 seeding in the Eastern Conference.
But there's been some great and not-so-great runs this season for the Penguins. Let's establish an upper-bound, lower-bound, and streak-free case.
If you're still laughing at 69 and "streak-free", your maturity level is perfect for this site.
Upper-Bound Scenario:
Remember that 5 game losing streak earlier in the season when the Pens mustered an absolutely pitiful amount of goals? Pretend it never happened. The Penguins play average at worst, and keep their amazing 11-2 start as part of their points.
69 points, 51 games. PPG = 1.35. Pens have 26 games left this season, so...
Projected finish: 104 points
Definitely good enough for Top 4, possibly even enough for the division.
Lower-Bound Scenario:
Switch the above scenario. Say the Pens keep that awful stretch and lose their best one. 11-2 means 22 points out of 26, in 13 games.
47 points, 43 games. PPG = 1.09
Projected finish: 97 points
I'd consider that good enough for at least a playoff spot. Typically the cutoff is 95 points or lower.
Streak-free (shut up) Scenario:
Let's eliminate both of the above situations. 11-7 in 18 games.
47 points, 38 games. PPG = 1.24
Projected finish: 101 points
It seems that taking away the streaks makes for a consistent metric of how the season has gone, even with the streaks. So the Penguins' current record is realistic with their overall performance this season.
Random other topic, the best coach in the West. I don't know how voters on nhl.com could pick anyone but Dave Tippett. With the "great" Wayne Gretzky coaching, the Yotes are a last place team. Tippett has made them into a bona fide contender behind solid D and a great team play strategy. People who want to anoint Quenneville for managing an appropriately highly-achieving club are fools.
Joe Sacco getting more votes than Tippett is more understandable, however. I still say Tippett has done most with the least.
- Matt
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It'll be a tough decision either Sacco or Tippett. I bet Sacco wins it out because the Coyotes seem like the redheaded step child that no one likes. Everyone seems to love the Colorado story in the media because they love Riley and Duchene.
However...I have to agree with Matt. Tippett has brought respectability to a franchise in despair. If you would've told anyone that Phoenix would've been in 4th place in the Western Conference...I would've bet you all of my money that they would be lower.
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