Penguins Face Golden Knights Amid Trade Deadline Changes

LAS VEGAS, March 7, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Penguins face off against the Vegas Golden Knights tonight at T-Mobile Arena, continuing their three-game road trip following a 4-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche. The Penguins, sitting at 24-30-10, are struggling in the standings, while the Golden Knights lead the Pacific Division at 37-18-6.

Pittsburgh has made several roster changes ahead of the NHL trade deadline, acquiring forwards Tommy Novak and Anthony Beauvillier this week. Novak is expected to debut this evening. The Penguins’ general manager has been active, having traded defenseman Luke Schenn to the Jets and Beauvillier to the Capitals. As injuries plague the Penguins, P.O. Joseph is out with an upper-body injury, while several key players remain sidelined.

The Golden Knights, coming off a strong 5-2 victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs, aim to maintain their momentum against the Penguins, who have dropped seven of their last eight games. Despite a structured approach to their play, Pittsburgh is averaging only 2.75 goals per game and allowing 4.88.

“We know we need to step up our game,” said Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan. “Every point matters, especially as we approach the final stretch of the season.”

The projected lineup for the Penguins tonight features Rickard Rakell with Sidney Crosby and Bryan Rust on the first line. The Golden Knights’ lineup includes Tanner Pearson, Jack Eichel, and Mark Stone leading their offense.

In terms of odds, the Penguins are a +200 underdog against the -250 favored Golden Knights, with a $100 bet on Pittsburgh potentially yielding $200 in return. On the flip side, a $250 wager on Vegas would net $100.

The matchup is significant as both teams are navigating their seasons. The Penguins hope to regain form and solidify their standing as the playoffs approach, while the Golden Knights aim to enhance their lead in the division. Their next game will be against the Minnesota Wild on Sunday before returning home to face the Golden Knights again next Tuesday.