Las Vegas oddsmaker Bovada lists the Pittsburgh Penguins as a slight favorite over the San Jose Sharks in the Stanley Cup Final. But in the hockey world, the best-of-seven NHL series, which starts Monday in Pittsburgh (8 p.m., NBC) is considered a toss-up:
Here’s how we see the Penguins winning it:
1) Use speed to be a disruptive force to Sharks offense
The Tampa Bay Lightning boast a formidable offense, but they had no time and space to make a play in the Eastern Conference Final.
2. Pour on the shots
The Pens outshot the Lightning by 91 shots in the conference final. The Penguins have an attacking style that can generate 35 to 40 shots per game.
3. Matt Murray outplays Martin Jones
At 22, Murray has become a crucial player on the Penguins’ roster. The Penguins seem to rely heavily on his composure. He needs to have a .930 save percentage in the series.
4. Sidney Crosby takes over
He has been a major contributor, but we haven’t seen him light it up offensively as he can do. He can win a game by himself.
5. Kris Letang stays poised and productive
Letang is the Penguins’ fire-starter offensively and defensively. He is a difference-maker. He can’t let his emotions boil over. The Penguins will win if he's one of the top players in the series.
