Penguins vs. Red Wings: Sharpening Up

The Pittsburgh Penguins play their fifth preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings.

The Pittsburgh Penguins are back home for their final home preseason game against the Detroit Red Wings. Less than a week before the 2023-24 regular season begins, the Penguins are still looking to finalize the bottom half of their roster. With just two more games left before final roster decisions are made, here’s what to watch for as the Pens take on the Wings. 

1.) Scoring Not Guaranteed

The Penguins had one of the most exciting off-seasons in team history, headlined by the acquisition of Erik Karlsson. Expectations are sky high for what their elite core can achieve, but the early goings have been rough. 

The power play shows no signs of improving last year’s average production, despite improved personnel. 

The second and third lines have looked decent at best, but the hole at second line right wing remains until Jake Guentzel returns to the lineup. Several players have spent time on Evgeni Malkin’s wing, but none look like viable part-time solutions.

The preseason is the time to look unimpressive and sporadic as the team adjusts to new line mates and schemes. While it’s far from time to push the panic button, the team needs to use the final two preseason games to generate some team offense. 

2.) Goaltending In Regular Season Form 

Despite the offense struggling throughout the preseason, the one area of success has been goaltending. 

Starting goaltender, Tristan Jarry, has been no exception in his appearances so far. After such a disappointing 2022-23 season, Jarry looks healthy and ready for the new opportunity after signing a five-year extension. 

Presumptive back-up Alex Nedeljkovic also looked solid in his lone game of preseason action. The goaltending will once again look to continue leading the team against the Red Wings. 

The Penguins and Red Wings face-off at PPG Paints Arena at 7:00PM. 

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