Reality Check

Buy Sam a Drink

And get his dog one, too.....as Penguins future Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Lange often goes off following a clutch goal. We liked Pittsburgh's chances against Ottawa to begin with. But a four-game sweep seemed practically out of the question considering the manner in which Ottawa owned the regular season series. Playing minus top gun Daniel Alfredsson, the Senators looked little like the formidable team that ousted Sidney Crosby and company a year ago in five games. Considering how gruelling and drawn-out these playoffs are, a four-game sweep is especially welcome and allows extra rest for the victorious club. While it is obvious, Pittsburgh is much more seasoned and experienced, we still feel the Pens are one-to-two seasons away from actually hoisting Lord Stanley's Cup. Can they reach the conference finals this season? Only time will tell. But Marian Hossa's addition could prove critical in that regard. For now, Pens' fans must relish the moment before taking out bank loans to purchase ducats for the next round....