Penguins Face Challenge Against Golden Knights In Must-Win Game

LAS VEGAS, NV — The Pittsburgh Penguins will attempt to break a three-game losing streak when they face the Vegas Golden Knights Friday at 10 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena. This game marks the second contest of a critical three-game Western Conference road trip for the Penguins, who currently sit nine points out of a playoff position.

The Penguins’ recent performance has been dismal. They began their road trip with a 4-1 defeat against the Colorado Avalanche, making it seven losses in their last eight games. In an effort to shift their fortunes, Pittsburgh made a couple of trades this past Wednesday, sending forward Michael Bunting to the Nashville Predators and defenseman Vincent Desharnais to the San Jose Sharks. In exchange, the Penguins received defenseman Luke Schenn and forward Tommy Novak, along with a 2028 fifth-round pick for Desharnais.

Pittsburgh struggles are highlighted by their ranking among the bottom 10 teams in five-on-five expected goals against, with one of the league’s highest goals allowed per 60 minutes this season. “We are working to reinforce our defense but it is going to take more than just a couple of players to turn things around,” said Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan.

On the other hand, the Golden Knights are currently on a three-game winning streak and aiming for their sixth victory in seven games. Vegas is four points ahead of the Edmonton Oilers for the top spot in the Pacific Division, holding a game in hand. Their offensive output has been impressive, with the team ranking first in expected goals percentage and third in shot attempt percentage since February.

Despite missing key players like William Karlsson and Shea Theodore due to injuries, the Golden Knights have adapted well. Head coach Bruce Cassidy noted, “The depth in our lineup has allowed us to maintain our performance. It’s crucial during the stretch run.” Karlsson is closing in on a return, though will not play on Friday, while Theodore is expected to be sidelined until late March.

Vegas will start goaltender Adin Hill, who boasts a 23-10-4 record with a 2.50 GAA this season. He has experience against Pittsburgh, holding a 2.21 GAA in four career outings against the Penguins. In contrast, the Penguins will go with Alex Nedeljkovic, who is 12-13-5 this season with a 3.14 GAA. His past performance against Vegas features a solid 0.75 GAA in one matchup.

The betting odds favor the Golden Knights, with Pittsburgh listed as a +190 underdog and Vegas as a -230 favorite. The over/under is set at 6.5 goals. “Our goaltending has been a concern, especially on the road,” said Sullivan. “Playing in Vegas is never easy, especially when they are firing on all cylinders.”

Pittsburgh’s high-scoring leader Sidney Crosby has 66 points on the season, yet it may not be enough against a fortified Vegas team strategizing for a deep playoff run. Predictions favor the Golden Knights, with analysts expecting a predicted score of Vegas 5, Pittsburgh 2.

As the clash approaches, both teams will focus on implementing their strategies effectively on the ice, looking to seize any advantage that could shift the balance of this high-stakes matchup.