The Pittsburgh Penguins season is on the line against the Nashville Predators.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Penguins have just two games remaining in one of the most up-and-down seasons in recent memory. 

Coming off of a disappointing loss, the Pens must win their final two games to remain in the hunt for the postseason. They will wrap up their home schedule with a meeting against a Western Conference wild card team. Here's what to watch for as the Penguins take on the Nashville Predators. 

1. Season On The Line

The Penguins really know how to make you sweat, and they continue to do so entering their final two games of the season. Sitting one lone point back of the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, the Pens must win this game and the next to have any hope of postseason action. 

The Penguins have been one of the best teams in the league since the end of March. They have collected points in 10 of 11 games and have more points than any other team over that span. They need to regroup from their first regulation loss of the month to earn two points against another extremely talented team. 

2. Nyquist's Season to Remember

The Nashville Predators are one of the biggest surprises in the NHL this season. Many expected this to be a retooling year under new leadership, but here they are with 47 wins and a playoff spot clinched. 

A big reason for their success this season is the overachievement of a variety of forwards, like Gustav Nyquist. Nyquist is enjoying the best season of his career at 34 years old. He has 22 goals and 52 assists, putting him at nearly a point-per-game average. He’ll look to close out the regular season on a high note, and the Penguins will need to find a way to limit the damage he causes. 

3. Rust Sets Career High

The Penguins might have lost their most recent game, but forward Bryan Rust had some reasons to be happy. He scored his 28th goal of the season, establishing a new career high in the goal-scoring department. With 55 points and two games remaining, Rusty has a chance to catch and possibly eclipse his career-high of 58 points as well. More importantly for the Penguins, they need Rust and his linemates to contribute another couple of goals in a can't-lose game. 

The Penguins and Predators face off at 7:00 PM. 

Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.

Boston Defenseman Fined For Actions Against Penguins

Penguins' Sidney Crosby Gets Glowing MVP Endorsement

Penguins Still Have Path to Playoffs

Penguins' Sidney Crosby Upset About Bruins' Last Second Shot

Penguins Clinging to Playoff Hopes After Loss

• undefined
• undefined