Penguins Face Maple Leafs: Lineup, Updates, and Viewing Guide
The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to face the struggling Toronto Maple Leafs in a crucial matchup at PPG Paints Arena. This game is scheduled for Saturday evening, with the puck dropping shortly after 7 p.m. The Penguins currently hold a record of 12 wins, 6 losses, and 5 overtime losses, while the Maple Leafs sit at 10 wins, 11 losses, and 3 overtime losses.
Penguins’ Recent Performance
The Penguins enter this game with a two-game winning streak, including a recent overtime triumph over the Columbus Blue Jackets. In that contest, they managed to rally from a 3-1 deficit, securing a 4-3 victory. This marks their first overtime win of the season, improving their overtime record to 1-2.
Sidney Crosby was instrumental in the comeback, scoring twice, bringing his season total to 15 goals. Bryan Rust also contributed with a goal, while Kris Letang netted the decisive goal in extra time. Goaltender Tristan Jarry performed well, stopping 26 of 29 shots, which enhances his record to 7 wins and 2 losses.
Penguins’ Key Players
- Sidney Crosby: 15 goals, 14 assists this season.
- Bryan Rust: 6 points in the last three games against Toronto.
- Tristan Jarry: 7-2-0 record with a .912 save percentage.
Maple Leafs’ Struggles
Conversely, the Maple Leafs are navigating a difficult stretch. They have not won in regulation since November 5. Recent losses to rivals like the Montreal Canadiens and the Washington Capitals have contributed to their woes, although they did secure an overtime victory against Columbus.
Toronto activated key players Auston Matthews and Nic Roy from injured reserve earlier this week, but the team’s performance remains inconsistent. They currently rank near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings.
Maple Leafs’ Key Players
- Auston Matthews: Scored one assist against Washington.
- Joseph Woll: Stopped 30 of 33 shots in a recent game.
Viewing Information
Fans can catch the game on SportsNet Pittsburgh and Hockey Night in Canada. Radio coverage will be available on 105.9 The X.
Expected Lineups
| Pittsburgh Penguins | Toronto Maple Leafs |
|---|---|
| Kevin Hayes – Sidney Crosby – Bryan Rust | Matthew Knies – Auston Matthews – Nicholas Robertson |
| Tommy Novak – Evgeni Malkin – Anthony Mantha | Max Domi – John Tavares – Easton Cowan |
| Danton Heinen – Ben Kindel – Ville Koivunen | Dakota Joshua – Nicolas Roy – Bobby McMann |
| Joona Koppanen – Blake Lizotta – Connor Dewar | Steven Lorentz – Scott Laughton – Calle Jarnkrok |
| Defense: Parker Wotherspoon – Erik Karlsson | Defense: Morgan Rielly – Oliver Ekman-Larsson |
| Goalie: Tristan Jarry | Goalie: Joseph Woll |
Special Teams Comparison
| Category | Penguins | Maple Leafs |
|---|---|---|
| Power Play Percentage | 30.2% (2nd) | 15% (26th) |
| Penalty Kill Percentage | 85.7% (4th) | 81.4% (13th) |
This game promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams seek to secure vital points in the competitive NHL landscape. The Penguins will aim to extend their winning streak, while the Maple Leafs hope to turn their season around.
