There’s been no shortage of concern over the Penguins during these first 44 games.
Relax.
Yes, they only went into Wednesday’s games with a one-point lead on the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, but there have been some pleasant surprises this season, too.
Here are five, each of them followed by a few words from Penguins coach Mike Sullivan:
1. Phil Kessel is once again among the NHL’s elite.
He’s also expected to be the Penguins’ lone representative for the NHL All-Star Game at the end of the month in Tampa, Fla.