Despite being the favorites, Red Wings are being overlooked
There is a strong sense throughout NHL circles that the Pittsburgh Penguins are more equipped to upend the Detroit Red Wings this time around as the two teams will meet for a rematch in the Stanley Cup Finals, Satuday night. Even though the Penguins may be primed to hoist their first Stanley Cup since 1992, the Red Wings should not be overlooked by no means. Why the Red Wings should not be overlooked The Red Wings are the deepest team in the National Hockey. Not only do you have to deal with star forwards Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg, Marian Hossa, & Johan Franzen, you also have to deal with role players Dan Cleary (14pts), Valtteri Filppula (14 pts), Mikael Samuelsson
Clearing the front of the net an area of focus for the Penguins
Top to bottom the Detroit Red Wings may be the deepest team in the National Hockey League. Where the Red Wings exploited the Penguins last season was their ability to cause havoc in front of the net. Led by gritty winger Tomas Holmstrom, the Red Wings have a “front of the net presence” on their top three lines. Holmstrom caused the Penguins problems in the 08 playoffs and Pittsburgh will have their hands full with Holmstrom again this time around. While Holmstrom will look to establish his presence early in game 1, the Penguins primary concern is going to be tough rugged winger Johan Franzen. Franzen (19 pts) leads the Red Wings in playoff scoring and he is not nicknamed
Franzen, Wings agree to 11 year-deal worth $42.9 million
The Detroit Red Wings and forward Johan Franzen have agreed to a long-term extension. – Detroit Free Press. The deal is believed to be worth $42.9 million over 11 years with a cap hit of $3.9 million per season. Franzen has a no trade clause for the first 6 years of the contract.