Penguins vs. Canadiens: Balancing the Changes
The Pittsburgh Penguins take on the Montreal Canadiens, looking for their first win against the Habs this season.
The Pittsburgh Penguins squeaked out an overtime victory over the New York Rangers to secure two crucial division wins and four points over the weekend. Currently sitting in the first wild card position in the Eastern Conference, the Penguins' next test comes against the fifth worst team in the league, the Montreal Canadiens. The Habs are 2-0 against the Penguins this season, winning both games in overtime. Here's what to watch for in the final matchup of the season between the Penguins and Canadiens.
1. Penguins Patrolling PPG Paints Arena
The Penguins will finish a five game stint at PPG Paints Arena with this matchup against the Canadiens. The Pens are 3-0-1 in the first four, and are looking to secure a point in their fifth straight game.
The Penguins are once again enjoying success on home ice this season, with a 19-9-5 record at PPG Paints Arena. One player in particular who is lighting it up at home is Evgeni Malkin. In his last eleven home games, Malkin has six goals and 15 assists for 21 points. He and linemate, Jason Zucker, have exploded over the last few weeks as the Penguins have stepped up their offensive game. This matchup against the Canadiens is another prime opportunity for Geno, Zucker, and the rest of the Penguins' offense to continue their impressive play.
2. New Lines Finding Balance?
Head coach Mike Sullivan made a lineup adjustment a few games ago, reshaping the look of his forward lines. After keeping the top six largely untouched, injuries forced the coach's hand, and it seems he's pulled the right strings with his lineup choices.
One of the most intriguing moves was playing Rickard Rakell with newly acquired center Mikael Granlund and young forward Drew O'Connor. The line has looked fantastic in two games played together. The line dominated possession in the offensive zone, and the early returns speak for themselves. It will be interesting to see if these lines continue to find chemistry and results, or if Sullivan will need to go back to the drawing board again.
3. Jarry Looking to Build on Strong Performance
There's no denying that Penguins' goaltender Tristan Jarry has struggled with consistency this season. With multiple injuries derailing him, Jarry has had some poor performances since his most recent return from injury. His most recent start was a solid performance against the Rangers, however, and it appears he may have turned the corner. The Penguins' ability to go on a run in the postseason rests solely on the health and performance of Jarry. If he can keep his game consistent, like he did against the Rangers, the Penguins are suddenly a very dangerous team.
The Penguins and Canadiens face-off at PPG Paints Arena at 7:00 p.m.
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