Penguins vs. Flames: Staying Hot

The Pittsburgh Penguins take on the Calgary Flames, looking for their second win of the season.

The Pittsburgh Penguins picked up their first win of the season in Washington, D.C. After out-working their divisional opponent for 60 minutes, the Penguins will have less than 24 hours to prepare for their next match. Here’s what to watch for when the Pens meet the Calgary Flames. 

1. Special Teams Stand Strong

One of the keys to the Penguins success this season is winning the special teams battle. The power play capitalized twice on three opportunities against the Capitals, contributing greatly to the team's victory. 

The other side of their specials teams has also stood strong through the team's first two games. The Penguins' penalty killing crew has successfully killed off the team's first seven penalties. The group is revamped and rejuvenated with the additions of defensively savvy veterans like Noel Acciari, Lars Eller, and Matt Nieto. 

They'll be put to the test again with the Flames coming to town. If they can continue to improve, the Pens will continue to win. 

2. Ned’s Pens Debut?

Tristan Jarry turned in a decent performance in the season opener, but his performance in the nation’s capital was top notch. He stopped all 19 shots en route to a shutout. 

After playing in the team's first two games, look for Jarry to receive an early season breather. Newly signed backup goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic expects to start on the second half of the back-to-back, and make his regular season debut for Pittsburgh. He looked vastly improved in the preseason, and he's looking to translate that success to the regular season and guide the Pens to their second victory of the year.

3. Crosby Leading The Charge 

In an unsurprising turn of events, the Penguins are being led in all areas of the ice by their captain, Sidney Crosby. Crosby has three goals in the first two games, and has looked dominant on both sides of the puck. 

Crosby made clear that he expected more out of himself and his team in 2023-24, and he's delivered on that so far. With another test against the Flames, look for the Penguins to follow their captains lead yet again. 

The Penguins and Flames face-off at 7:00 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena. 

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