Senators' Comrie has Penguins struggling

The diminutive player has played like a giant in the Senators' 3-1 series lead.
OTTAWA (AP) -- Mike Comrie is one win away from uncharted territory -- the second round of the NHL playoffs.
He is one of the reasons the Ottawa Senators lead their best-of-seven series 3-1 against the Pittsburgh Penguins heading into Game 5 tonight.
"He's been great," linemate Mike Fisher said. "He's not the biggest guy, but he's got a big heart. He's playing really well and physical, making good plays and being smart. He's been huge for us.
"He's playing with a bit of an edge."
No doubt that will come as a surprise to Edmonton Oilers fans who chased their native son out of town four years ago during a messy contract dispute.
Comrie has brought a physical presence in this series, scored two goals and added a huge assist in four games.
"He's one of the smaller guys in the league but he goes out and plays like [6-foot-9] Zdeno Chara. It's unbelievable," rugged Ottawa winger Chris Neil said.
Having a great time
Comrie says he's having a blast.
"It's been a lot of fun," he said. "Playing in the playoffs again is what every player wants to do. Having an opportunity to play with this team ... it makes things a lot more enjoyable when you have a chance to win every night."
Comrie arrived in Ottawa from Phoenix in a January trade that was precipitated by injuries to top two centers Jason Spezza and Fisher. But he's proven to be much more than a Band-Aid, especially in the playoffs.
"I think he's risen to the occasion," Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson said. "As the games get more important he's really played better. He's really determined and he's really gritty."
The 5-10, 185-pound Comrie stunned fans, and maybe some teammates when he fought in Game 2 with 6-2, 188-pound Colby Armstrong of the Penguins -- and won the fight.
"I didn't really want him to do it, no question about it, but the fact that he did it and did well in it, tells me and tells the players, 'I'll help look after you and we'll all battle in this together.' And I kind of like that about him," Senators coach Bryan Murray said.
Found a home
Comrie has found a home on the Senators, his fourth stop in six NHL seasons.
"When I was first traded here the first thing that went through my mind was being part of a team that has a chance to contend for a Stanley Cup," Comrie said. "As a player that's all you can ask for."
Alfredsson said the trade could not have worked out any better.
"Ever since he came here he's jelled with the team, he's a fun guy to be around," Alfredsson said. "He's obviously been a great addition for us."
Comrie has had to adjust to a new role. Instead of the first-line center, he's the second-line winger.
Copyright 2007 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.