Penguins vs. Oilers: Facing a New Challenge

The Pittsburgh Penguins are winless in three straight games, and face the Edmonton Oilers' high-powered offense. The Penguins, who now in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, gave up five straight goals to the Oilers in their first matchup this season. The Penguins are one point out of a playoff position and are desperate for a win. Here's what to watch for when the Oilers visit PPG Paints Arena. 

1. Red-Hot Rickard Rakell

It's hard to find positives in the Penguins' game recently, but there is one player who has upped his game. Rickard Rakell is on fire the last five games. He has three goals and seven points, and seems to be finding a groove on the first line and power play unit. Rakell has 40 points on the year and is the fourth highest scorer on the team. The Penguins will need another productive night from Rakell if they want to take down the Oilers.

2. Connor McDavid and Leon Draisitl Continue to Dazzle

Through 58 games, Connor McDavid has already eclipsed the 100-point mark on the season, with 105 points. McDavid's unparalleled production leads the league by 20 points. In second place is McDavid's own teammate, Leon Draisaitl. For comparison, Sidney Crosby has scored more than 105 points only twice in his storied career. 

The reeling Penguins are getting thrown into the fire again when they take on the Oilers. McDavid and Draisaitl are the most potent 1-2 punch in the league, and the Pens must find a way to keep at least one of those superstars off of the scoresheet. 

3. Is Tristan Jarry Back For Good? 

Tristan Jarry returned to action against the New York Islanders and looked solid at times, but struggled through some rustiness in his return. Towards the end of the game, it appeared that he took a shot that rendered him uncomfortable but remained in the game. With Jarry's chronic injuries this season, it's unclear how long he will remain available. When he's in the lineup, the Pens are a different team. Hopefully the day off provided some needed rest, as he's in for a difficult night against the Oilers. 

The Penguins and Oilers face off at 7:00 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena. 

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