The Pittsburgh Penguins take on the Philadelphia Flyers in an afternoon showdown at PPG Paints Arena.

The Pittsburgh Penguins lost a disappointing matchup against the New York Islanders in their last game. They squandered another third period lead, ultimately losing in overtime. Although they secured a point, the Penguins are looking for two points when they take on their arch rivals, the Philadelphia Flyers, for the first time since before Thanksgiving. Here's what to watch for in what should be another great installment of Pens vs. Flyers. 

1. Penguins Forward Depth Under Fire

The Penguins are struggling through a depth issues at forward. Over the past week, the Penguins have had to make several roster moves and lineup adjustments to ice 18 skaters. They've recalled Alex Nylander twice in that span on an emergency basis, meaning they are without enough healthy players on the NHL roster. They also had to play seven defensemen in their game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, due to not having enough healthy forwards to dress. 

This rash of injury is coming at a terrible time, as the team is in the midst of remodeling their third and fourth lines. With the additions of Nick Bonino and Mikael Granlund, Coach Sullivan is clearly desperate to build chemistry and find his ideal lines prior to the playoffs. This matchup against the Flyers will be another test for the Penguins and their forward depth. 

2. Red-Hot Zucker

Jason Zucker continues to impress for the Pittsburgh Penguins, and he's been the hottest forward on the team over the last five games. He's netted six goals over that span, and his high-energy and tenacious attitude on the ice is consistent spark for the Pens. 

The Flyers are a team that requires the Penguins to play with edge and at a fast pace, an environment Zucker thrives in. The Pens will be relying on him to extend his red-hot goal scoring pace to help the team secure a win against their bitter rival. 

3. Tippett the Scales 

The Flyers are having another forgettable season, despite having the highly entertaining and polarizing John Tortarella behind the bench. One player that has stood out this season for the Flyers, however, is young forward Owen Tippett. The former first-round pick was part of the trade package Florida sent to Philadelphia for Claude Giroux last season. 

Tippett has broken out under Tortarella this season, setting career high marks with 18 goals and 34 points in 60 games. The 24 year-old forward plays with intensity all over the ice, and the Penguins will have their hands full against Tippett in this matchup. 

The Penguins and Flyers face-off at 3:30 p.m. at PPG Paints Arena. 

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