With his new six-year contract extension, James Neal has solidified himself as part of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ core group of players, which also includes elites such as Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Jordan Staal, Kris Letang, and Marc-Andre Fleury.

Aside from the game itself, there’s little that’s more exciting than the prospect of seeing a new player, especially a star player, get traded to your favorite team. And that’s why February is one of the most thrilling times of the year for hockey fans.

As always becomes the case this time of year, much of the focus in the hockey community has shifted to the trade deadline and what players might be traded. Could the Penguins be active this year, or will they sit tight with what they have?

With news that Alex Ovechkin has been suspended for three games comes the follow-up question: why is he permitted to skate in the All Star Game this weekend?

When James Neal was acquired last season, the consensus was that he would be the long-term left winger for Sidney Crosby.

I didn’t buy it then, and I really don’t buy it now.

From the Faceoff-Factor family to you and yours, we wish you a very Merry Christmas! May you have a safe and blessed holiday!

Instead of talking about highlight reel goals, beautiful saucer passes, and amazing saves, fans across the country are talking about “Sindy Crysby” and his concussion.

An unexpected and pleasant surprise this gloomy Friday afternoon.

Is James Neal really as bad as his tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins suggests?

After a long summer without hockey, it’s nice to finally have something to talk about once again.

The Pittsburgh Penguins will be streaming today’s practice live on their web site, and Faceoff-Factor will make it one step easier. Watch here!

The Pittsburgh Penguins have announced that four of the team’s six pre-season games will be aired locally on television.

The Pittsburgh Penguins will stream Sidney Crosby’s 12:30 media scrum live on their web site.

Could we learn a more definite timetable for the superstar center’s return?

Updates from Darren Dreger and Bob McKenzie inside.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are reporting that Craig Adams has undergone successful appendectomy surgery.

It’s no surprise that as training camp approaches, more and more doubts surrounding Sidney Crosby’s progress surface.

Each summer NHL officials led by NHL Senior Vice President of Player Safety and Hockey Operations Brendan Shanahan convene to test potential rule changes. This year, Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Dan Byslma has been asked to participate due to his status as reigning Jack Adams Trophy recipient.

Watch as Jordan Staal works out in preparation for the 2011-12 season.

The Pittsburgh Penguins today announced the signing of their 2011 first round draft pick, defenseman Joe Morrow.