You know about the Penguins’ veritable galaxy of offensive stars – Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Marian Hossa and Petr Sykora, among others. But Philadelphia boasts a deceptively strong roster of scoring threats in its own right. Although their moves may be less dazzling than Pittsburgh’s, the Flyers have actually scored more goals per game than the Penguins in these playoffs so far. With seven 20-goal scorers this season, Philadelphia’s offensive attack is well balanced, and the Flyers have three players in the top 10 playoff scorers, compared to the Penguins’ two.

This series is likely to come down to defense and goaltending, and perhaps surprisingly, that’s a battle the Penguins should win. Pittsburgh has allowed fewer goals-per-game than any other playoff team, surrendering only 17 goals in their nine playoff games for an average of 1.89 per game. The Flyers, on the other hand, have given up 34 goals in 12 games, for an average of 2.83.

The Penguins have accomplished this largely thanks to the outstanding play of 23-year-old netminder Marc-Andre Fleury, who’s soared to a 19-3-1 record since returning from injury and has won his last 16 starts at home. But they’ve also demonstrated a commitment to the sound defensive system instituted by coach Michel Therrien. Their penalty kill has stopped an impressive 89.5 percent of enemy power play chances, and their forwards and defensemen are equally willing to sacrifice the body to block shots.

And if you’re thinking that Pittsburgh might have a tough time competing with Philadelphia’s big, physical defense, keep in mind that the Penguins hardly shy away from contact. Led by bangers like Ryan Malone, Jordan Staal, Brooks Orpik and Jarkko Ruutu, the Penguins outhit the Rangers 41-22 in their last game.

The physically punishing Flyers have been shorthanded more often than any team in the playoffs, and their penalty kill is stopping a marginal 77.2 percent of those chances. If the Penguins can keep their composure and avoid taking retaliatory penalties, they can respond to the Flyers’ missteps with their dangerous power play. Staying disciplined is key, however, as Philadelphia has been equally potent on the man advantage.

The Battle of Pennsylvania showcases one of the league’s fiercest longtime rivalries; the feelings between the two teams often border on contempt. Malkin and Crosby have often ratcheted up their games when facing the Flyers; look for them to lead the Penguins’ total team effort en route to the Stanley Cup Final.