The Penguins pulled off another "Shero Shocker" by signing both Pascale Dupuis and Kris Letang to new contracts. In stark contrast to my previous prediction, it seems we may see many similar faces in Pens uniforms this winter.
With so much effort being exerted to keep the team together even after an embarrassing loss in the conference finals, one might find themselves wondering how the Pens are getting better. Much criticism has been heaped upon Ray Shero for allowing the status quo to prevail. He's gone as far as to anoint Mark-Andre Fleury as the #1 goaltender moving forward, even after his second consecutive collapse in the first round of the playoffs. Now, it seems the Pens' biggest off season losses may be in the form of Matt Cooke and Craig Adams, two important but highly replaceable players.
So what does Shero see that we don't? I believe at this point he is chalking anything that happened in the lockout shortened season as an anomaly. The 2012-13 schedule was condensed. It favoured the young and well conditioned. Knowingly or not, the Blackhawks were the perfect mix of just that - and they've got a cup to show for it. The sprint is over. The marathon begins again this fall. It's easy to bet that an increased workload in a shorter period of time likely had something to do with not just the Penguins' failure, but the failure of most teams in the league. Perhaps Shero believes that with a regular schedule, a better result might be forthcoming.
I could yammer on and on about how philosophy needs to change, coaching needs to change, goaltending needs addressed or increasing defensive accountability. But the truth is, this team isn't going to change (much). Bylsma will stilll be Bylsma. Letang will take risks. Play will remain fast paced and up tempo. And in 2013-14, Shero will trot out a lineup which will be very similar to last season's. Let's hope the schedule - the one thing that will change - provides the Pens with the shot in the arm that's needed
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