The Pittsburgh Penguins close out their regular season with a contest against the New York Islanders.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Penguins battled hard over the last few weeks of the season, but it just wasn't enough to overcome their turbulent season. The playoffs are out of reach for the second straight season, and despite some positives to build on for next season, this current one is a failure. Also, for the second consecutive year, the Penguins will play a meaningless 82nd game of the season. Here's what to watch for as the Pens close out the 2023-24 season against the New York Islanders. 

1. Finish Strong

It doesn't matter that the Penguins can't earn a playoff position in this contest; they need to show up for their final game of the season. The team shouldn't have trouble hyping themselves against a divisional opponent, especially a heated one like the Islanders.

The Penguins are looking for solid finishes from a variety of players. Breakout forwards like Valtteri Puustinen and Drew O'Connor are eager to prove they can bring even more to the team in more prominent roles next season. On the back end, PO Joseph, Ryan Shea, and Jack St. Ivany are all vying to leave one final positive impression in 2024.  

2. Another 30-Goal Year For Horvat

Last season, the Islanders paid a premium for forward Bo Horvat and signed him to an eight-year extension. In his first full season on Long Island, Horvat's certainly looked like an $8.5 million player. He has 33 goals, making this his third straight 30+ goal season. Ten of his tallies have come on the man advantage as well.

The Islanders have a well-rounded and underrated group of forwards. With five 20+ goal scorers playing in their top nine, the Islanders can score on you with any of their top three lines. But even amongst Brock Nelson and Mat Barzal, Bo Horvat stands out as the top player for New York. The Penguins must keep Horvat off the scoresheet to close the year on a happy note. 

3. Carter's Final Game?

Could this be Jeff Carter's final NHL game? The Penguins' center has enjoyed one of league history's most successful 19-year careers. Now 39 years old, he still managed to put up 10 goals playing in a very sheltered role. 

Far from the 30-goal scorer he once was, there's no denying the impact he's had in the Penguins' locker room. If this is his final game, hopefully, he goes out doing what he was known for his entire career: scoring goals. 

The Penguins and Islanders face off at 7:00 p.m. at UBS Arena. 

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