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Pens ice Game 1 in Eastern finals

Yeah, that's the way I like it.

Just like Game 7 in the Capitals series, the Penguins jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first period.

That's good enough to grab another drink, kick back and relax while cheering every check, shift and shot by the Pens.

Unfortunately, the Pens didn't rout the Hurricanes like they did the Caps. It would have been fun, but it wasn't necessary, either.

Goalie Marc-Andre Fleury overshadowed Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and the Staal brothers with a strong 25-save performance.

This could be a sign that Fleury is getting hot at the right time. A hot goaltender can carry a team.

And not to get too far ahead of things, but if you look down the road, a potential matchup against the Red Wings looms. Fleury could be the difference if he's in the zone.

But let's get back to Monday night.

Malkin had a goal and an assist, Crosby didn't score (!) but he did have an assist, and the Hurricanes were stuffed on offense.

The only problem is we'll need to wait until Thursday for Game 2. You gotta thank the NHL for treating this like an NBA series that's spread out over two weeks.
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