Penguins Honor Women’s Hockey Ahead of Match Against Maple Leafs

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Penguins will host the Toronto Maple Leafs today at PPG Paints Arena, starting at 1 PM, with doors opening at 11:30 AM. This matchup not only marks an important game for the Penguins, who are pursuing a playoff spot, but also a celebration for Her Hockey Day, presented by 84 Lumber, highlighting the contributions of women hockey fans during Women’s History Month.

Fans attending today can explore information tables across the concourse and participate in a special Her Hockey Auction. To join, interested parties can text HERHOCKEY to 76278 or visit herhockey.givesmart.com, with the auction open from 12 PM to March 10. Proceeds will benefit the Pittsburgh Pennies, an initiative aimed at increasing female participation in hockey and promoting gender equality within the sport.

The Penguins come into this game with a record of 24-28-9, while the Maple Leafs boast a stronger 37-20-2. Historically, Pittsburgh leads the recent series against Toronto, holding a 21-14-3 record over the last 38 matchups. Furthermore, the Penguins have triumphed in five of their last seven home contests against the Maple Leafs, showing promise in their home environment.

Coach Mike Sullivan expressed optimism as the Penguins conclude their 13th set of back-to-back games. Although Pittsburgh’s performance in back-to-back situations is subpar at 9-16-0, hope remains high due to standout players such as Kris Letang, who has tallied 13 points in his last 19 encounters with Toronto, and Evgeni Malkin, who boasts an impressive record against the Maple Leafs with 71 points in 48 games.

“We have to come out with a strong start,” Letang stated about today’s game. “It’s critical for our momentum and confidence.”

With Malkin seeking to break Mario Lemieux’s franchise record for points against Toronto, he enters the match riding a wave of success, having recorded seven points in his last five games since returning from a break. The captain, Sidney Crosby, is also on the cusp of history, needing just one goal to surpass Bobby Hull on the NHL’s all-time scoring list, while leads in assists stand at 1,048, just one shy of tying Gordie Howe for 10th place.

Defensively, Erik Karlsson and Letang stand poised to contribute offensively against Toronto, with Karlsson leading active defensemen in scoring against the Maple Leafs. As both teams take to the ice, the Penguins will look to improve their inconsistent power play, aiming to capitalize on opportunities if they arise.

Recent struggles against the Flyers only heightened the need for a strong performance today. Following a disappointing 6-1 loss, Sullivan noted the importance of mindset and energy in returning to winning form. “It’s crucial for us to stay focused, find that right energy, and turn things around,” Sullivan emphasized.

The stage is set for an engaging match as the Penguins aim not only for victory, but also to uplift the spirits of their fans in honor of women in hockey.