The Pittsburgh Penguins controlled what they could but are still unlikely to see postseason hockey.
PITTSBURGH – The Pittsburgh Penguins took care of their business and managed a massively important win over the Nashville Predators. While the win did wonders to keep the Penguins playoff hopes alive, they got no help from around the league.
For the Penguins to see their playoff chances increase, they needed a win paired with losses from multiple other teams. The Detroit Red Wings, Washington Capitals, and New York Islanders also won.
According to moneypuck.com, thanks to those wins, the Penguins' playoff odds dipped from 23.7% to 14.9%. While not quite at zero, the Penguins will need outside help during their off day.
The Penguins will see their season effectively come to an end if either the Red Wings or Capitals win. The Red Wings finish their season against the Montreal Canadiens, while the Capitals take on the Philadelphia Flyers.
Penguins fans will have to watch those matches closely to hope that Game 82 against the Islanders will be meaningful.
Heading into the final game of the season, the Penguins hold a 38-31-12 record for 88 total points, one point behind the Red Wings and Capitals. The Red Wings are the team on the outside looking in with a 36.3% chance of making the playoffs and the Capitals have a 48.9% chance.
The Islanders clinches their spot in the postseason and drew an end to the Flyers' hopes in the process.
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