The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to conclude their three-game road trip with a matchup against the Buffalo Sabres. The game is scheduled for a 7 PM puck drop at KeyBank Center. Fans can catch the action on SportsNet Pittsburgh and ESPN+, or listen on 105.9 the X and on the Penguins app.
The Penguins have a team record of 29-33-11, while the Sabres stand at 30-33-9. In past encounters with Buffalo, Pittsburgh holds a strong record of 14-5-1 in their last 20 games. Historically, the Penguins have performed solidly at KeyBank Center, achieving a record of 15-3-3 in their last 21 visits. The team has scored three or more goals in recent matches against Buffalo.
Sidney Crosby, after securing an assist in Tampa Bay, is one point away from achieving his 20th point-per-game season. “He has recorded at least one point in 50 of 61 career games played against them,” continues the statement. Over recent games, Crosby has amassed 13 points across all skaters. His contribution extends to 21 of the last 28 games against Buffalo.
Bryan Rust is nearing personal career milestones, being just two goals away from his career-high, reached last season. Over his recent games, Rust is on a three-game goal streak, and has notched up five goals in his last six games.
Defenseman Erik Karlsson ranks prominently, having accumulated 50 points this season. He is close to equaling Markus Naslund’s record for points among Swedish-born players and is on the brink of hitting 200 career goals. “Karlsson’s 199 career goals rank second in the NHL among active blueliners,” the release states.
Evgeni Malkin has been productive since returning from the 4 Nations break, with 12 points in the last 15 games. He has had impressive performances against the Sabres, showing consistency in scoring.
Looking at some quick stats: Erik Karlsson and Kris Letang lead in points among defensemen against the Sabres. Noel Acciari is approaching 100 blocked shots, and Bryan Rust is among a select group of players achieving multiple 25-goal campaigns. The Penguins have a record of 5-2-1 in their last seven games, with their power play performing notably well.
Pittsburgh owns a substantial record when both Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin contribute points in a game.
