R1- Pens 🆚 Isles

If the Islanders are the darlings of the 2018-19 season, then the Penguins are the forgotten, trusty shepherd's dog. It's a bit of 'old hat' for Crosby and his team, and if the underlying numbers are any indication; the Penguins are gonna do what they do - win in the playoffs.

A comparison of their season performances shows no holes in the Pen's game. However, the Islanders underlying numbers show some concern for the PP (obviously), but also the high shooting and save percentages that do not align perfectly with the underlying chance generation and suppression numbers.

But. What have you done for me lately?

In the last 10 games (right), the Pens offence has wilted but the 5v5 defensive game is tops in the NHL. Were they merely getting ready for the playoffs?

Similar story with the Islanders. They maintained solid 5v5 defensive numbers, including - most impressively - an increase in scoring chance suppression. But the PP was still terrible and even the 5v5 scoring dropped.

If past numbers meant anything - which they don't in hockey - the Penguins should win this series.