PITTSBURGH — One of the big story lines coming out of the Stanley Cup Final between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Nashville Predators is the Pens' chance to be the first team since 1998 to win back-to-back Stanley Cups.
But the players won’t tell you that.
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They addressed international media at PPG Paints Arena Sunday for media day, saying they are focused on winning the series, not necessarily making history.
Droves of reporters and photographers corralled around each player as they had a chance to ask questions ahead of Game 1 Monday night in Pittsburgh.
Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin garnered the most attention, and Geno had the crowds laughing.
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"It's good competition between me and Sid. Sid scores, I want to score too. Sid scores one more, I want to score one more too. Sid scores Hat Trick, I stop," joked Malkin.
Crosby, in front of media seven people deep around him, calmly mentioned how the team has found ways all season long to win and that mentality has helped them get to the Stanley Cup Final.
WATCH: PENS ON 11: Crosby talks his team, the competition at Penguins Media Day
"I think the fact that a lot of guys went through it last year and can draw from experience last year is good, but it doesn't guarantee anything,” Crosby said.
Patric Hornqvist, a former Predator himself, will be a game-time decision. He’s been out since the first game against the Ottawa Senators.
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Matt Murray, in his rookie season, said he never would have dreamt that his first two years in the NHL would lead to two Stanley Cup Finals.
“I just feel so fortunate to be on this team,” said Murray.
His equal in the other net, Predators goalie, Pekka Rinne, said he’s aware of the strength between Crosby and Malkin.
“When those guys are in your zone, you have to watch closely and know what’s going on,” said Rinne.
WPXI is your home for Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final. Our coverage begins at 7 p.m.
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