The Pittsburgh Penguins attempt to save their season with a young forward earning his place on the team.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Penguins are in serious trouble with 15 games remaining in their season. Currently seven points out of the second wild card position, a loss to finish off their home stand effectively ends the team's playoff chances. With a win, they could stay within five points of a playoff spot and keep hope alive. Here's what to watch for as the Penguins take on the Detroit Red Wings. 

1. Puustinen Solidifying Third Line

The Penguins may be in danger of being eliminated from playoff contention, but they still have some positives worth acknowledging. Top of that list has been the play of some younger players like Valtteri Puustinen. Since being given a shot to stay in the lineup, he's become a solid forward who looks to have a level of untapped potential.

With 14 points in 36 games, he's scored more than the likes of Jeff Carter, Noel Acciari, and Emil Bemstrom despite playing in about half the games. Playing on a line with Reilly Smith and Lars Eller, Puustinen is a getting prime scoring opportunities. In a must win game, watch for Puustinen and the third line to be a thorn in the side of the Red Wings.

2. Lyon Tamer

The Red Wings are in the playoff hunt largely due to the play of their breakout goaltender, Alex Lyon. With an 18-14-2 record, the Red Wings are getting quality goaltending from Lyon in his first season. Add in a .904 save percentage and a goals against average of 3.03 and the 31-year-old is hoping to be the number one netminder on a postseason squad.

The Penguins are hoping they get the worst version of Lyon, and have good reason for their hopes. He's lost his last six starts and the Red Wing have struggled through a losing streak. Looking to rebound and return to form, Lyon will get the nod in Pittsburgh. 

3. Rusty's 20th 

Bryan Rust netted his 20th tally of the season in the Penguins' loss to the Rangers. With his goal, Rust achieved his fifth straight 20-goal season. The veteran winger is a steady source of production and defense for a team that is desperate for consistency down the stretch. With six points in the last five games, The Pens are counting on Rusty to factor into more offense against the Red Wings.

The Penguins and Red Wings face off at 6:00 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena. 

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