VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The Pittsburgh Penguins (25-14-11) are set to face the struggling Vancouver Canucks (17-29-5) at the Rogers Arena on Sunday, marking a potential trap game for the Penguins as they conclude their four-game road trip in Western Canada. The game’s puck drop is scheduled for just after 6 p.m. EST (3 p.m. PST), with Elizabeth Irving performing the National Anthems.
The Penguins enter this match on a high note, coming off a commanding 6-2 victory against the Edmonton Oilers. The team showcased their offensive prowess by making history with three goals scored in just 37 seconds during the first period, setting the record for the fastest trio of goals against Edmonton in NHL history. Notable performances included Anthony Mantha’s two goals and Sidney Crosby’s stunning game-winner, highlighting the depth and talent of Pittsburgh’s roster.
Vancouver finds itself in dire straits, currently holding the worst record in the NHL with only 39 points, trailing behind other struggling teams like the St. Louis Blues and Calgary Flames. The Canucks managed to recall goalie Nikita Tolopilo to back up Kevin Lankinen, who is set to take the starting role given that Thatcher Demko is sidelined due to injury.
The Penguins are looking to maintain their momentum, having achieved a record of 10-2-2 since the holiday break. They currently occupy second place in the Metropolitan Division, with a four-point cushion above the fourth-place Philadelphia Flyers. Should they secure a victory, it would not only complete a perfect trip through Canada but also serve as the Penguins’ first accomplishment of this nature since the 2019-20 season.
In terms of lineup confirmation, Coach Dan Muse has indicated that defenseman Kris Letang will be in the lineup after a full practice session, and Stuart Skinner will start in goal as he continues to shine with a recent record of six wins in his last seven outings.
The Penguins have performed well against the Canucks, winning 12 of their last 18 encounters. However, the matchup has been closely contested in recent years, with both teams alternately claiming victories at Rogers Arena in their last eight meetings.
Pittsburgh holds a significant advantage in special teams, boasting a power play percentage of 27.4% and ranking fourth in the league, while Vancouver’s power play struggles at 19%. The Canucks also have the league’s worst penalty kill, sitting at 70.6%.
In this critical matchup, the Penguins aim to avoid the trap that the lowly Canucks may represent while solidifying their position in the playoff race, potentially energizing their season as they push forward. With star players like Crosby and Rakell continuing to rack up points, optimism abounds in the Steel City as they look to extend their winning streak.