Given the ever increasing likelihood of a rematch of the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals, I figured I would ask you guys a question I have been wondering myself the past few days. I guess the real question here is do you think that Bylsma is that much of a better coach than Therrien, or were the Red Wings players going to outplay us anyway, reguardless of coaching in 2008?

IMO, it was clear that Therrien did not have our team prepared for games 1 and 2 of the Finals last year. Our team looked lost and amazed by the speed of the Red Wings. However, more than anything, I think no matter how well prepared we were or were not, the Red Wings had the age and experience and our players were young and inexperienced. I don't blame Therrien for that. Granted, I expect a more experienced, determined, and all around better Penguins team to show up this year.

It's obvious Bylsma's style of coaching is preferred by our players to that of Therrien's. He seems to relate to the players better. We have been phenomenal since he came in, granted that Gonchar came back and the additions of Guerin and Kunitz were huge. Several players have definitely acceled with the coaching of Bylsma (i.e. Staal). Assuming there is a rematch in the finals, I am anxious to see how our team stacks up against Detroit this year with Bylsma at the reigns. I don't think I am alone in thinking this would be a dream match up because I have wanted revenge all year on Detroit. Don't get me wrong, I admire Detroit as an organization and they have been consistent winners but I honestly think we are better than last year and they aren't quite as good as they were last year (but I am obviously biased). The Hossa story could make it even better. I can't wait to see the signs Pens fans have for him at Mellon!

Anyways, I don't think it would have made much difference who the coach was last year. We were inexeperienced and didn't really know what to expect and I think theres not much a coach can change about that. Do I think Bylsma is a better coach? Definitely. This year, I am hoping that the combination of our more experienced team and a better coach will put us over the top reguardless of if we play Detroit or Chicago. What do you think?

Also, do you think Hossa might have stayed in Pittsburgh if Bylsma were the coach last year? I don't really care about Hossa leaving anymore but I remember being pissed about it when it happened. I don't want do dwell on old subjects but do you think he honestly believed he had a better chance to win a Cup with the Wings or another reason (like not hitting it off with Therrien?).