Penguins Set for Clash of Generational Talents
The Pittsburgh Penguins season opener offers plenty of storylines.
The longest offseason of the current Pittsburgh Penguins era has finally concluded. The start of a new season brings a monumental matchup to kick things off.
Sidney Crosby and the Penguins begin their quest to return to the playoffs tonight against 18-year-old rookie sensation Connor Bedard and the Chicago Blackhawks. Bedard had been the unquestioned first-overall pick for several years as he took over the WHL as a member of the Regina Pats.
Tonight, Bedard makes his NHL debut against Crosby, who he has often remarked as his childhood idol. When Crosby made his NHL debut against the New Jersey Devils on October 5th, 2005, Bedard was 80 DAYS old. Fast forward 18 years, and these two will share the marquee for the NHL's first primetime matchup.
Bedard and Crosby won't be the only stars to take the ice Tuesday night. A pair of high-profile players will make their debuts on new teams. 2010 first-overall pick Taylor Hall will take the ice for the first time since signing with the Blackhawks this summer.
Meanwhile, reigning Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson debuts with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Karlsson joins the Penguins in hopes of resurrecting the organization's championship aspirations. Karlsson will likely play on the Penguins' second defense pairing next to Marcus Pettersson.
The Penguins and Blackhawks headline the opening night of the NHL season, and all eyes will be on the opening draw as Sidney Crosby lines up across from Connor Bedard.
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