The Pittsburgh Penguins kick off their 2024 with a matchup against the Washington Capitals.

After going 7-1-1 over their last nine games, the Pittsburgh Penguins are one of the hottest teams in the NHL as 2024 begins. Now, within earshot of a playoff position, the Penguins are hopeful they can continue this run in the new year. Their first test comes against Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals. Here’s what to watch for in the latest installment of the Pens versus the Caps. 

1. Teams Trending In Opposite Directions 

The Penguins and Capitals are on two different types of streaks heading into this matchup. The Pens are winners of three straight and keep wracking up points. The Capitals, however, are losers of three straight and four of their last five. Over their last 10 games, they’ve been a barely average team, going 4-3-3. The two teams are currently tied with 40 points each, and the winner of this matchup will leapfrog the other in a neck-and-neck division. 

2. Geno vs. Ovi

The Russian influence in the NHL entered a renaissance when Alex Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin joined the league nearly two decades ago. Now, in the waning years of their careers, it’s still just as impressive when these two go head-to-head. 

Geno is out-producing his fellow countryman this season, with 31 points compared to Ovi’s 21. Just like Crosby and Ovechkin, these two show up big-time when they square off and you can expect the same in this contest.

3. Smith’s 800th Game

Pittsburgh Penguin’s forward Reilly Smith will appear in his 800th game against the Capitals. The 32-year-old forward is a Stanley Cup champion and one of the most respected players across the league. He has eight goals and 20 points in his first season in Pittsburgh, and he’s made for a solid linemate for Malkin. In his career, he’s amassed 208 goals and 493 points over 13 NHL seasons. 

The Penguins and Capitals face-off at PPG Paints Arena at 7:30 p.m. 

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