NHL Power Rankings 2011: Penguins Slowly Climbing Toward Top Of Rankings

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been on a hot streak of late, and they're doing it while still experiencing some pretty serious injuries. Those who put together the NHL Power Rankings across the Internet have taken notice of this good play, and as a result, the Penguins are starting to climb up the various Power Rankings. First, let's take a look at CBC Sports, who have the Penguins ranked as the sixth best team in all of Hockey.

Pittsburgh's PK is absolutely ridiculous at 97 per cent. GM Ray Shero says contract talks with James Neal haven't started yet. You have to wonder who will have more bargaining power if he waits much longer. Neal already has eight goals this year without Crosby and Malkin (most of the season). The Pens' depth is just something else.

Perhaps the greatest indicator of their success though is the rankings at Real Clear Sports, which average seven different ranking services to form one big cumulitave ranking. They have the Penguins ranked third behind the Capitals and the Red Wings, which is pretty fair if you ask me.

For more on the Penguins, head over to PensBurgh.