There is one major key for the Pittsburgh Penguins against their division rivals.

Back-to-back wins against the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils have given the Pittsburgh Penguins new life in their push for the playoffs. As it has frequently, the Penguins surge has led to a massive matchup with the Washington Capitals.

A regulation win would bring the Penguins within two points of multiple playoff spots. They would join four other teams vying for those same positions.

If the Penguins want to take down the Capitals, it starts with the penalty kill. The Capitals have the best power play in the NHL since February 1st and have converted on 31.7% of their chances.

Fortunately, the Penguins penalty kill has been one of their most consistent units. The Penguins are 11th in the NHL on the penalty kill (81.6%) and are 7th in the NHL since February 1st (82.4%).

As always, Sidney Crosby (15 pts in 6 games) and Alex Ovechkin (8 goals in 9 games) are playing their best hockey with the season on the line. Both will be pivotal for their respective teams in a potentially season-defining matchup.

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