Penguins Playoff Chances Still Alive Despite Loss
The Pittsburgh Penguins secured a point in their ninth straight game, keeping them within striking distance of the playoffs.
PITTSBURGH – It was unlikely the Pittsburgh Penguins would go undefeated down one of their most challenging stretches of the season. Despite a loss, the Penguins managed to force overtime against the Toronto Maple Leafs, securing a massive point in the standings.
That one point helps keep the Penguins on the cusp of a playoff spot. According to moneypuck.com, there is also virtually no change to their playoff odds. The Penguins entered their matchup with a 38.3% chance of making the postseason and walked out with a 38.4% chance.
The Penguins have a 36-30-12 record and are tied with the Detroit Red Wings for the Eastern Conference’s second wild card spot with 84 points. The Red Wings have a 51.5% chance of reaching the playoffs.
Just ahead of the Penguins and Red Wings are the current front-runners in this tight East race. The New York Islanders are third in the Metropolitan Division with 85 points and a 60.6% shot of making the postseason.
The Washington Capitals (24.2%) and Philadelphia Flyers (25%) are one point behind the Penguins and Red Wings, but they are both on horrid losing streaks. Their odds are vanishing quickly while the Penguins are taking full advantage.
The Penguins may have lost to the Maple Leafs, but securing a point pushed their point streak to nine games as they continue fighting for a history-making playoff push.
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