The Pittsburgh Penguins are changing things up with their season on the line.

PITTSBURGH- The Pittsburgh Penguins couldn't do their part during the Jaromir Jagr jersey retirement, losing a stunner against the Los Angeles Kings. The optimism for the season is fading with every mounting loss. The Penguins are nine points out of the wild-card spot as teams ahead keep finding wins.

The second of a four-game home stand brings a division matchup and a team in front of them in the standings. Here's what to watch as the Penguins take on the New York Islanders. 

1. Evgeni Malkin Pointless In Four Straight

Part of the issue with the Penguins is their need for scoring outside of Sidney Crosby and Jake Guentzel before his injury. That issue extends to the team’s number two center, Evgeni Malkin. He’s gone cold over the last four games, not registering a single point. Between inconsistent linemates, power play failures, and declining physical skills, it’s been a transitional season for the future Hall of Famer.

Despite that, he’s still been a productive player, with 16 goals and 41 points and appearing in all 52 games. In a pivotal Metropolitan Division matchup, the Penguins need Malkin to snap his drought and have a vintage Geno game.  

2. Norris Candidate In New York

The Islanders are trying to sneak into the playoffs again with a 22-18-14 record and 58 points on the season. If they can, it's primarily due to the superstar-level play of defenseman Noah Dobson. His game has improved year over year since arriving in the NHL, and he has reached new heights this season. He's leading the team in assists (51) and scoring (58 points) during a career-defining season. He’s a bonafide candidate for the Norris Trophy this season, and the Penguins will need to shut Dobson down to defeat New York. 

3. Matthew Phillips Next Up

The left and right wing spots on the second and third lines have been revolving doors for the Pittsburgh Penguins. No combination has stuck, and they are going with another new look for this matchup. Recent waiver claim Matthew Phillips is the next forward to get the nod with Malkin on the second line. Before arriving in Pittsburgh, Phillips put up five points over 28 games with the Washington Capitals this season. 

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

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