Penguins Host Senators on Margaritaville Night: Key Players to Watch

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — The Pittsburgh Penguins look to break a losing streak as they host the Ottawa Senators on Margaritaville Night at PPG Paints Arena this Sunday at 5 p.m. ET. Fans can enjoy live music before the game, with doors opening at 3:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on SportsNet Pittsburgh and ESPN+, with radio coverage on 105.9 The X.

Pittsburgh enters the matchup with a record of 29-34-11, having claimed points in 15 of their last 20 games against Ottawa since March 23, 2017. However, the Penguins have lost their last three home games to the Senators and will look to turn things around.

The Senators currently stand at 39-28-5, battling for the first Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference after a recent victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Ottawa’s strong performance contrasts with Pittsburgh’s recent struggles, as they have lost four of their last five games, conceding an average of six goals per game during this period.

In roster news, the Penguins recalled forwards Rutger McGroarty and Ville Koivunen from their AHL affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. McGroarty has been impressive this season, tallying 39 points in 60 games, including 18 points in his last 19 matches. Koivunen leads the team in points and goals among rookies, showcasing potential impact as he steps onto the NHL stage.

Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, who notched his 80th point of the season with a recent goal against the Buffalo Sabres, is a key player to watch. He is currently riding a nine-game point streak, tying for fourth across the league in this span. Crosby’s contributions will be crucial as the Penguins seek to bolster their playoff chances.

Additionally, Bryan Rust is on the verge of reaching career milestones, needing just two goals to hit 200 and two points to match his personal best of 58. Rust has excelled against Ottawa, recording 19 points in 22 career games versus them.

On the Senators’ side, forward Claude Giroux will be looking to continue his scoring prowess. With 76 points against the Penguins historically, he is an active threat in this matchup. Defenseman Erik Karlsson also stands out, ranking high among team blueliners in overall points this season.

As both teams gear up for this one-game showdown, the Penguins must overcome their recent home struggles against Ottawa to gain critical points as the postseason approaches.