The Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up to host the struggling Buffalo Sabres at PPG Paints Arena, marking their annual pre-Thanksgiving game. With a record of 10 wins, 6 losses, and 5 overtime losses, the Penguins find themselves in a puzzling streak where they have performed well but still faced disappointing defeats. The game is set to commence at 7 p.m., coinciding with the popular porcelain gravy boat giveaway tradition.
The Penguins have had a light schedule in recent weeks, playing only four games, with notable performances, including a painful 5-0 loss to the Minnesota Wild and a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken, where they led for most of the game. Star players Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin managed to score against Seattle but have witnessed their team’s overtime struggles continue, now sitting at 0-5 in extra-time scenarios.
This matchup has added significance, as the Penguins will soon face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Friday, followed by a home game against the Toronto Maple Leafs and a three-game road trip, starting with the Philadelphia Flyers.
In contrast, the Sabres have been grappling with their share of challenges, including trade rumors and player unrest amid a disappointing season marked by a 14-year playoff drought. Despite this turmoil, they have recently found their footing, winning four out of their last five games, with a resounding 4-1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday. Notable players like Tage Thompson, Alex Tuch, Jack Quinn, and Jack Malenstyn contributed to that victory, while goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukonen showcased his skills by stopping 29 of 30 shots.
In terms of personnel, the Penguins are hopeful with the return of goaltender Tristan Jarry and Ville Koivunen, as Coach Dan Muse has confirmed Jarry will start on Wednesday. The team will also see rookie Tristan Broz make his NHL debut, while Ben Kindel will be scratched for developmental purposes.
The Penguins possess an impressive special teams unit, boasting the best power play in the league at 32.0% and a penalty kill ranked fifth at 85.2%. Meanwhile, the Sabres hold the 20th-ranked power play at 17.9% but have a commendable penalty kill, leading the league at 87.7%.
Historically, the Penguins have been dominant against the Sabres, holding a 14-6-1 record in their last 21 encounters. Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang have particularly excelled against Buffalo, ranking first and second among active defensemen in scoring.
As the anticipation builds for this exciting matchup, the Penguins aim to sharpen their performance and build momentum, while the Sabres look to continue their recent success against a formidable opponent. Fans eager to catch the action can tune in on SportsNet Pittsburgh or listen via 105.9 The X radio.