The Pittsburgh Penguins might look down, but they aren't quite out yet.
PITTSBURGH - Yet again, the Pittsburgh Penguins are in need of outside help for them to have a real chance at making the playoffs.
The odds are slim, but a postseason appearance is still possible if the New York Islanders lose in regulation followed by a win from the Penguins in their last game of the regular season.
“We hope that we get another opportunity here,” Sidney Crosby said. “You just got to mentally prepare as if you’re going to get that opportunity.”
Regardless of their situation, the Penguins are hopeful and staying ready if they get that last chance.
Head coach Mike Sullivan stated that his mindset in the Penguins most recent practice was keeping the intensity high.
“We’re hopeful that we’re going to play a meaningful game,” Sullivan said. “We’re game planning for that.”
The fate of the Penguins’ postseason hopes don’t lie in their hands, but they are professional athletes and need to be ready for whatever battle comes their way.
“It’s not always upbeat and perfect,” Crosby said. “It wasn’t gloomy or terrible either. Every guy in here knows the situation.”
Every member of the Penguins’ organization knows the situation and where the team stands, but everyone is remaining confident and holding onto hope that they aren’t done playing hockey this year.
“We're not out of the playoffs until we are out of the playoffs,” Sullivan said. “We've got to operate on the assumption that we have meaningful hockey ahead."
The season might seem over and the end of an era might seem near, but the Penguins aren’t booking vacations just yet.
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