The Pittsburgh Penguins travel to Boston for a matchup with the league's top team.

The Pittsburgh Penguins had a three game winning streak snapped after a hard fought loss against the Washington Capitals. Despite losing their first game of the calendar year, the Penguins enter 2024 as one of the league's hottest teams. They face another imposing test in the form of the Boston Bruins, the NHL's best team thus far. Here's what to watch for as the Penguins take on the Bruins. 

1. Rusty's Back

Bryan Rust returned to the Penguins' lineup in their game against the Capitals, registering no points and a single shot in his return. Playing alongside Evgeni Malkin and Reilly Smith, the Penguins are hopeful Rust can kickstart the second line into another gear. With a game under his belt to get back to game speed, expect the Pens to get the best out of one of their most dependable forwards. 

On the year, Rust has 20 points in 23 games played, and is a huge piece to get back for the Pens as they try to ascend the Metropolitan Division standings. 

2. Captain Marchand 

In his first season as captain of the Bruins, Brad Marchand is certainly making an impact. With 33 points in 36 games, he's still one of the best wingers in the game. Taking over for former captain Patrice Bergeron, Marchand is also guiding a new look Boston team to the best record in the NHL. 

Add in the peskiness of his game and his, shall we say, antagonistic nature, and the Penguins will have their hands full against the Bruin's captain. They may be able to limit his offensive contributions, but Pittsburgh has historically struggled to keep Marchand from getting under their collective skin. If the Pens can do successfully, they'll have a significantly better chance of taking home the win in Boston. 

3. Center Depth Is Key

The calling cards of these two teams over the years has been depth at the center position. That remains the same for both teams this season, despite the roster turnover in both organizations. 

The Penguins still boast the better individual players at the position, but the Bruins are getting consistency from each line, every game. They've been getting impressive play from the likes of Morgan Geekie and Trent Frederic, with both players already at 14 or more points on the season. In this matchup, the center depth will be pivotal for either team to secure a victory.

The Penguins and Bruins face-off at 7:00 p.m. at TD Garden. The matchup will be a special one for Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin, who will skate in his 1,100th career game. 

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