The Pittsburgh Penguins are back in the playoff picture thanks to outstanding play from their core veterans.

PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Penguins have extended their winning streak to four games and put themselves back in a playoff spot for the first time since mid-November. While contributions are coming from all over the lineup, the Penguins’ core veterans are arguably the biggest reason for their recent run.

During the Penguins' recent 6-0-1 stretch, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have combined for 12 of the team’s 30 goals. As recently as a month ago, it looked like Crosby and Malkin were throwing in the towel on the season, but they have found a new gear and aren’t letting up on the pedal.

Crosby’s production paired with the Penguins wins have put him right back in the MVP discussion. Malkin has thrived since his parents have returned to Pittsburgh for the first time in five years.

Over the last eight games, Crosby has scored seven goals and nine assists for 16 points and help secure at least one standings point in each of those games. Malkin in his last six games has scored six goals and three assists for nine points.

The Penguins are getting production from key veterans, but it doesn’t stop with Crosby and Malkin. Even on the blue line, the veteran faces are stepping up and taking over.

Kris Letang is riding a five-game point streak where he has a goal and seven assists for eight points. Erik Karlsson has really started playing with some confidence and has a three-game point streak of his own, including three assists against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The core of the veterans may have heard the criticisms and are looking to prove many wrong.

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