The Pittsburgh Penguins are eager to get back in the win column against the Carolina Hurricanes.

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Penguins battled hard in their overtime loss against the Vancouver Canucks, The effort earned them a point, but they still wound up one goal short of victory. Despite the loss, the Pens moved up in the Metropolitan Division standings from 7th to 6th place, remaining just two points out of a playoff position. They can make up some more ground in the division with a win in Carolina. Here's what to watch for when the Penguins take on the Hurricanes. 

1. Karlsson's Gone Streakin'

The Penguins are desperate to leave this matchup with two points, and defenseman Erik Karlsson can help deliver that. He's been incredibly effective over the past five games, picking up at least one point in every game in 2024 so far. With six points over that span, he's brought his season totals to seven goals and 29 points in 40 games. If Karlsson can extend his point streak to six games, he'll give the Pens a huge boost in a pivotal game. 

2. Eye of the Hurricane

In the center of the Hurricane's success this season is forward Sebastian Aho. He's on a personal best pace, with 47 points in only 38 games. Poised to be a 90+ point scorer for the first time in his career, he's seemingly elevated his game again this year. 

Touting a top-five defensive team, the Penguin's defense versus Aho's line will be the most critical matchup of this game. The Canes might not be as deep as they have been in recent years, but their first line is a truly elite one, led by Aho's heroic efforts. 

3. Winless in Raleigh

The Penguins have had trouble against the Hurricanes over the past few seasons, and they've especially struggled when playing in Raleigh at PNC Arena. The Pens have struggled so mightily that they haven't won the Hurricanes' building since 2018. In a critical divisional matchup, can Pittsburgh snap their losing streak?

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