The biggest previews for the Pittsburgh Penguins matchup with the Washington Capitals.

PITTSBURGH — When the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals meet, the whole hockey universe is abuzz. Two of the league's most successful franchises and players going toe-to-toe tend to make for a marquee matchup around the league. But things have certainly changed in the NHL, and neither the Pens nor the Caps are contenders or even threats to make the postseason.

Even worse, both teams are in sell mode with days remaining until the trade deadline. What remains amongst the change is two of the greatest hockey players battling it out. Here's what to watch for as Sidney Crosby and the Penguins welcome Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals. 

1. Sid vs. Ovi 

The Penguins and Capitals are both long shots to make the postseason, but this matchup shouldn't suffer from any lack of intensity because of that. Crosby has historically dominated the matchup, outscoring Ovechkin by 26 points over 67 matchups. 

Two of the all-time leading scorers are still producing in their 19th season. Ovi has found a late rhythm and picked up 17 goals and 45 points on the year. Crosby has 32 goals and 63 points, still cruising over a point per game. In a critical matchup, will either captain step up and will their team to victory?

2. Sandin's New Contract

Last season, the Capitals gave up a first-round pick to acquire defenseman Rasmus Sandin from the Toronto Maple Leafs. It seemed slightly odd that a team out of the hunt at the time would give up their own draft choice for a roster player, but it looks like Sandin and the Capitals have been a perfect fit. In 71 games over parts of two seasons since getting to Washington, he's put up 35 points. This season, he's put up 20 points in 52 games and is the second-leading skater in ice time. 

All of that success has led to Washington giving a long-term investment to Sandin. The team announced he had signed a five-year extension, earning him an average annual salary of $4.6 million. At 24 years old, he seems to be the heir apparent to John Carlson on defense. The Penguins will need to keep 

3. Power Play... Surging?

The Penguins have one of the sorriest power plays in the NHL this season. Over the last few games, however, they have put together a respectable performance. They’ve converted on the man advantage in five of the previous seven games, raising their success rate to just over 15%. To secure two points, the Penguins will need another solid outing from their power play.

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

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