The Pittsburgh Penguins Biggest Rival in 2008

Original image from: Daylife/AP Photo.

Over the next few days we will take a look back at 2008 by revealing the results of our Best of 2008 Survey. Thanks to everyone who voted.

Some things don't change.

While the Penguins have built up quite fierce rivalries with the New York Rangers, Ottawa Senators, Detroit Red Wings and Washington Capitals, it is their cross state rival, the Philadelphia Flyers that was voted as their biggest rival.

The close proximity to one another, vastly different playing styles and history between the two teams makes the Flyers public enemy number one in Pittsburgh. And it's not exactly pleasant for the Penguins in Philadelphia either.

After a recent 6-3 loss in Philadelphia, Sidney Crosby stated that the Penguins lost because they "don't hate [Philly] enough right now."

If "Mr. Nice Guy, Spokesman for the NHL" hates the Flyers, that's saying a lot.

But can you blame him? Crosby enters the Wachovia Center to relentless chants of "Crosby Sucks" every time he plays there.

In regards to the Flyers, Evgeni Malkin has said "when we play there, we have problems, like people throwing popcorn on the bench. I don't really like playing against them. I don't like that team."

Of course, then there are stunts like this one pulled by Scott Hartnell that just feed the hatred.

The Penguins may have beaten the Flyers in five games during the 2008 Eastern Conference Finals, but that has only thrown gas onto the fire. The Flyers have played the Penguins even tougher this season and the notorious Philadelphia fans have chanted "Crosby Sucks" just that much louder.

The Philadelphia Flyers were definitely the Penguins biggest rival in 2008 and, if things continue, they will likely remain on that list in 2009.