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Bryan Rust Says Penguins Lacked Energy Against Devils
Bryan Rust Says Penguins Lacked Energy Against Devils

Penguins vs. Golden Knights: Tests Getting Tougher

The Pittsburgh Penguins take on the defending Stanley Cup champions in a Sunday evening matchup.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are fresh off of back-to-back losses to divisional opponents after rattling off five straight victories. The Penguins waste no time trying to right the ship, as the defending Stanley Cup champs come to town. Here's what to watch for as the Penguins battle the Vegas Golden Knights. 

1. Crosby Doing It All

This era's greatest player is continuing to be great in every facet of the game. At 36-years-old, Penguins' captain Sidney Crosby is turning back time with his performance to begin the season. 

With points in 11 straight games, Sid the Adult has 22 points in 16 games, and is right in the the thick of the NHL scoring leaders. As the Pens look to steal a victory over Vegas, Crosby is poised to extend his league leading scoring streak. 

2. William Karlsson Leading Las Vegas Offense

The Golden Knights are one of the most high powered offense in the NHL. Between Mark Stone, Jack Eichel, and Jonathan Marchessault, they have multiple 40+ goal scorers in their lineup. 

Despite the name recognition of their top stars, the offensive production in Vegas is paced by William Karlsson. A former Lady Byng Trophy winner and one-time 70+ point scorer is enjoying an offensive renaissance to begin the 2023-24 campaign. He has 20 points in 18 games, and could give the Penguins fits as they try to stifle the star power in Vegas. 

3. Nedeljkovic Returning?

The goaltending depth in Pittsburgh has been tested early, with backup Alex Nedeljkovic on the shelf the past few weeks. Tristan Jarry has manned the net as usual with Nedeljkovic absent, but got some assistance from third stringer Magnus Hellberg. 

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But it appears Nedeljkovic is ready to return, especially after completing a conditioning stint in Wilkes-Barre (that included an empty net goal). With the Penguins on their second of back-to-back contests, it could be the perfect time for Nedeljkovic to return to the Penguins' lineup. 

The Penguins and Golden Knights face-off at 6:00 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena. 

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