2007-2008 Pittsburgh Penguins Schedule

With Wednesday’s release of the 2007-2008 NHL schedule, I am here to break-down the Pittsburgh Penguins schedule. I’d like to point out that the NHL apparently fears matching the Penguins with colors. The Penguins do not play against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues or Chicago Blackhawks.

Friday, October 5, 2007 – at Carolina – The first game of the year!

Saturday, October 6 – vs. Anaheim – The Pens’ home opener against the defending Stanley Cup champions

Wednesday, October 10 – vs. Montreal – Sidney Crosby takes over the NHL points lead.

Saturday, October 20 – at Washington – I’ll be there!

Monday, November 5 – at New Jersey – I’ll watch the first two periods and then probably switch to ESPN for the Steelers-Ravens game. How am I going to watch both games plus Prison Break and How I Met Your Mother?

Thursday, November 22 – at Ottawa – The first time these teams will meet since the Stanley Cup playoffs. Hopefully, the result of this game will be better for the Pens than the last few against the Senators.

Saturday, December 29 – vs. Buffalo – Jay Caufield bobble-head night?

Friday, January 18, 2008 – vs. Tampa Bay – Michel Ouellet returns to the Burgh.

Wednesday, January 30 – at Atlanta – Jordan Staal scores his 17th short-handed goal.

Sunday, March 9 – at Washington – This is the same weekend as my brother’s wedding. I’m going to try to make it (it meaning the game; I will definitely make the wedding). Actually, the Penguins aren’t playing on Saturday. Maybe Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin will attend the wedding!

Saturday, April 6 – at Philadelphia – The last game of the regular season. Sidney Crosby wins another scoring title.

My prediction is that the Penguins make the playoffs as the #6 seed. There will be some growing pains as there will be high expectations to start the season, which the team did not face last year. The division will also be better since the Flyers can’t be as bad as last year.

The second annual hockey road trip will take place again, dates to be determined. This year will likely include trips to Chicago, Detroit and possibly Minnesota. I think a game in Tampa and/or New York/Long Island/New Jersey could also be on the agenda.