The Pittsburgh Penguins' playoff dreams are on the line, and the crucial stretch begins NOW! After a break for the 2026 Winter Olympics, the NHL season is back, and every game counts for the Penguins as they push for the postseason.
But here's where it gets controversial... The biggest question mark hanging over the team is the health of their captain, Sidney Crosby. He sustained an injury during the Olympic quarterfinals, and his absence from the semifinal and gold medal games is a worrying sign. It’s hard to imagine he wouldn't have played if he were anywhere near 100%, especially with a chance at his third Olympic gold. This strongly suggests he might not be in the lineup when the Penguins return to action this week. An update on his status will be absolutely vital, as the team will undoubtedly need him down the stretch.
And this is the part most people miss... While we wait for news on Crosby, it appears Avery Hayes is likely to be called back up to the main squad. This would be a thoroughly deserved promotion, not just because he potted two goals in his NHL debut, but also because he's kept up his scoring pace in the American Hockey League. This bodes well for his development and the forward depth the Penguins have been building over the last couple of seasons.
Get ready for some rust! After a three-week hiatus, every NHL team will likely be shaking off some cobwebs. This is especially true for players returning from the intense, highly competitive international games they just played. Everyone is in the same boat.
The Penguins' week ahead is packed with opportunity. They have three games scheduled, and they’ll be facing some more manageable opponents before diving into a tough March schedule. Their week kicks off on Thursday night against the New Jersey Devils. This is a particularly advantageous matchup because the Devils will be playing the second game of a back-to-back, having faced the Buffalo Sabres the night before. Keep in mind, the Devils were struggling heading into the break, losing five of their last six games. While they have talent on paper, things haven't clicked for them this season, and they currently hold the second-worst record in the Eastern Conference. The Penguins have a split season series against the Devils so far.
Saturday afternoon brings another crucial game against the New York Rangers, who are currently the worst team in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers have already begun to dismantle their roster, trading away defenseman Carson Soucy and star forward Artemi Panarin. More moves could be on the horizon before Saturday’s game as the trade deadline approaches. Even before these trades, the Rangers were a team with significant flaws, relying heavily on their goalie, Igor Shesterkin. Without him, their depth is questionable. The Penguins have a 2-1 advantage in the season series against the Rangers, including a season-opening 3-0 shutout win at Madison Square Garden.
The week concludes on Sunday afternoon with a home game against the Vegas Golden Knights. This will be the start of a challenging March schedule and represents the toughest test of the week. While the Golden Knights haven't quite lived up to expectations, they remain a top team in the Pacific Division with considerable talent. This will be particularly challenging for the Penguins as they play the second half of a back-to-back, with travel, while Vegas will be rested at home. On paper, this is the hardest game, but it’s still winnable, especially considering some of the inconsistencies in Vegas's goaltending this season.
The Penguins are in a strong position heading into this week. They need approximately 14 more wins (or about 28 more points) to secure a playoff spot. Regardless of Crosby's availability this week, the expectation should be that they can earn at least four points in the standings.
What are your thoughts on the Penguins' playoff chances this week? Do you think Sidney Crosby will play? Let us know in the comments below!
