Mario Lemieux is back, playing with his two favorite wingers, Jaromir Jagr and Kevin Stevens. By the look in his eye, it’s obvious Mario meant what he said when he returned last December, saying, "You know I play this game to win championships. I’m coming back to help these guys reach our goal - to win the Stanley Cup."

During the recent game against St. Louis, Mario definitely decided to take charge in the third period. By sheer will and determination, he scored one goal and got a shot on goal that Jagr swooped in and scored on. The other players marvel at his incredible talent even after years of watching him make impossible plays. His presence on the team, on the bench, and in the locker room will make a huge difference to how the Pens react in the playoffs. Mario doesn’t seem to ever get down. He is always positive, always confident, not just in his abilities, but in the teams’. He knows that hard work and perseverance will cause good things to happen.

Jagr will almost surely win the scoring title again, maintaining the hold that he, Mario, and Wayne Gretzky have had on it since 1980. This will give him an extra boost of confidence too coming into the playoffs, knowing he is the best the league has to offer. With Mario and Kevin, he should be able to recreate history from the playoffs of the early ‘90’s.

The incredible story of the "second" line will continue into the playoffs. These three, Kovalev, Lang, and Straka have become a force, instinctively knowing what the others will do after playing together for almost two full seasons. They are all having career years and the playoffs should make them hungrier still.

The defense has toughened up with added help from the forwards. Kasparaitis continues to shine, being the most durable of the defensive corps. Bob Boughner proved his mettle against Keith Tkachuk, playing a solid game while keeping one of the best players in the league pretty much in check. Ian Moran has come back and will add a little extra spark to the team.

In goal, there may have be a "nice" dilemma. Do the Pens start Johan Hedberg who has played so remarkable well? Do they play a goalie with a proven track record in Garth Snow? Or will J.S. Aubin surprise everyone and play like he can? Barring injury, the team could go into post-season play having three competent goaltenders, a luxury not many other teams have at this time of year.

Coach Hlinka has demonstrated his power of late and we can be sure he will be taking charge and doing what he does best - trying to win championships.

Much like the robins and cherry blossoms, the Capitals seem to be part of spring in Pittsburgh. It’s almost become a tradition. The Pens seem to have the psychological edge on this team for whatever reason and since the Caps traded Richard Zednick to Montreal, won’t have him to worry about since he caused the team some trouble this season. Ollie the Goalie is tough though and we can’t assume it would be a walkover to play the Caps.

Whoever the Pens play, it will be exciting. Everyone seems to have the playoff bug already and can’t wait for the tournament to begin.