Under pressure; Penguins putting triumphant regular season in rearview as playoffs begin

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - The Metropolitan Division champion Pittsburgh Penguins are ready for the post-season to begin.

Despite a rash of injuries that included significant absences by stars such as Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang and Paul Martin, Pittsburgh posted the second-highest point total in franchise history and won the division easily.

While coach Dan Bylsma credited his team for finding a way to win with a constantly evolving lineup, he understands this season will be judged by what happens in the playoffs. Pittsburgh opens the post-season on Wednesday night in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against Columbus.

The Penguins won all five meetings between the two clubs during the regular season, outscoring the Blue Jackets by a combined score of 16-8.