Having the blueprint is one thing. I imagine it's pretty easy to come up with a "blueprint" to beat anybody in the league, but executing is another story. Especially with this ratf***ed coach and roster.
The problem with being a team like the Pens with limited talent is that you have to execute your game plan to win games.
The Leafs can afford to have one bad period in a 60 minute game and still easily defeat the Pens. The Pens have to play 60 minutes or damn near close to it to get a win.
And it's really hard to play full 60 minute efforts all season long. Elite teams have it easier because they're so talented they can coast to some sloppy wins. Back when the Pens routinely made the playoffs how many games did they have where they'd play like shit for a period or even half the game and then Crosby or Malkin would pull 1g 2a out of their asses and the Pens would come back and get points or win? They can't do that so regularly any more.
