New York Islanders Rank Low in Metro Power Ranking

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Apr 2, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) carries while holding off New York Islanders defenseman Johnny Boychuk (55) during the third period at Barclays Center. Pittsburgh Penguins won 5-0. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Penguins

Record Over Last 10: 2-1-1

The defending Stanley Cup champions rank middle of the pack for two reasons. It’s got nothing to do with personal bias. Or jealousy at their recent cup success. None of that.

The first is that Sidney Crosby isn’t playing. The best player in hockey isn’t playing due to a concussion. It came from what was potentially a routine coming-together along the boards at practice.

With Crosby out the Penguins are significantly weaker. Yes, they still have Evgeny Malkin and Phil Kessel. But that just won’t be enough for them.

Crosby was the best player for the Penguins in the 2015-16 regular season. (In the playoffs, not so much). His 85 points to end the season reminded us all that his best days aren’t over yet.

The second reason the Penguins rank this low is a 4-0 loss to the Carey Priceless Montréal Canadiens. Listen, if David Desharnais can put up two goals against you, something is wrong.