Vindication or Frustration?

More than a month has passed since the Ottawa Senators eliminated the Pittsburgh Penguins from playoff action in a five-game series. And in that time, the Senators have taken out the Eastern Conference's top two regular season teams.

Throughout the first round series, I found myself disgusted at the way the Penguins played, but, at the same time, in awe of the way the Senators played. It was as if the Senators transformed their playing style specifically to fit the playoffs.

Sadly, the Penguins looked as if they were in the midst of a preseason exhibition game, dressing primarily non-roster training camp invitees.

But after watching the Senators dismantle the New Jersey Devils in round two and the Buffalo Sabres in round three, there is almost a sense of vindication that arises.

If the Penguins had to lose in the first round, at least it was to the team representing the Eastern Conference in the Stanley Cup Finals, right?

I suppose, so, but there still is that part of me that wanted to see the Devils -- the Penguins divisional rivals -- crush the Senators in four games.

The Penguins' first-round defeat still frustrates me, and I'm even more frustrated that the Senators are one of the teams that will take center stage to compete for the most recognizable trophy in professional sports.

I wanted to see the Penguins compete with a Western Conference team for the Stanley Cup. The Senators prevented that from happening, and the fact that they are now in the final series does not justify or vindicate the series loss they dealt the Penguins.

The Senators have reached the big dance because they earned it, and, in the process, they have earned my respect.

And, because I dislike both the Anaheim Ducks and Detroit Red Wings, my allegiance during the Stanley Cup Finals will be with the Senators.

But that doesn't mean I am happy they are there.