What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Ask Sidney Crosby.

"We went through a lot of adversity throughout the year," the Pittsburgh Penguins captain said after his club sent the New York Rangers packing in five games, according to NHL.com's Wes Crosby. "I think we learned a lot about this group along the way."

Pittsburgh began the season with lofty expectations, but started extremely slow from the gate, especially Crosby, who had only a goal and four assists through the Penguins' first 11 games.

The club's slow start cost head coach Mike Johnston his job, the Penguins turning a corner after Mike Sullivan was given the position. Pittsburgh only got stronger as the season went on.

Crosby got better, too. He had 10 points in November, 12 in December, 14 in January, 18 in February, and 21 in March.

"I thought we really found our game (in March)," Crosby said. "I think that whole month, we built a lot of confidence."

The Penguins went 12-4 in March. They're peaking at the right time, and that they were able to send the Rangers home in only five games without their No. 1 goalie speaks to the talent and dedication of the club.

"It doesn't get any easier, that's for sure," Crosby said about the next round, and the month ahead. You have to think the Penguins will be just fine, though.

"Right now, they're probably the hottest team in the league and they're going to be a tough matchup," Rangers head coach Alain Vigneault said. He knows.

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