They have to get there first, but the Pittsburgh Penguins have proved that they're ready for the playoffs.

With nine games remaining in the regular season, making the playoffs is still not a certainty for the Pittsburgh Penguins. However, their performance over the past few games has put them in an advantageous position in the standings and has proven that they are ready to play playoff hockey.

The 2022-23 season has been inconsistent for the Penguins. Easily identified peaks and valleys are why this team will have to fight for every point to qualify for the postseason. Luckily, it seems like they are heating up at the right moment.

The Penguins' 4-3 win over the Washington Capitals felt like a playoff game, with both teams desperate for the two points up for grabs. It punctuated a trio of tightly contested games against difficult opponents. 

As a whole, the Penguins are beginning to play better and have been able to get more consistent performances throughout their lineup. The bottom of the lineup has contributed in each of the team's last three games, including massive goals by Ryan Poehling and Chad Ruhwedel against the Capitals.

The importance and intensity of these games have risen considerably over the past week. Despite the absence of four defensemen and the uncertainty around their starting netminder, the Penguins have stood up to the challenge. 

While the Penguins remain an overtly flawed team, they have found ways to win games despite their issues, and that's what playoff hockey is all about.

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