"Statistics and history suggest that the Penguins, as currently constructed — that is, without center Sidney Crosby — simply cannot score enough to win a championship this spring.

Even with goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, whose play ranks among the league's best.

The exploits of center Evgeni Malkin and right wing James Neal are impressive, but they are being relied upon to carry the scoring load far too much.

"Someone else needs to start scoring," center Dustin Jeffrey said. "Soon.""