Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to begin a five-game homestand with a match against the Columbus Blue Jackets. The game will take place at PPG Paints Arena, with puck drop scheduled for 7 PM and doors opening an hour earlier. Fans can watch the game on SportsNet Pittsburgh and ESPN+, or listen on 105.9 the X and the Penguins app.

Both teams hold similar records, with Pittsburgh at 17-17-7 and Columbus at 17-17-6. Historically, the Penguins have performed well against the Blue Jackets, securing points in 13 of their last 14 encounters since December 2019. In their past 28 games against Columbus dating back to February 2017, Pittsburgh has maintained a strong record of 21-4-3.

The Penguins currently enjoy a notable home winning streak against Columbus, having won their last 15 home games against them since December 2015. This streak is the second-longest in franchise history for home wins against a single opponent.

Sidney Crosby has been a key player in these matchups, recording an impressive total of 61 points over his career games against Columbus. His performance ranks him third in NHL history for points per game against this team among players with at least 20 games played.

Pittsburgh's recent form shows they have scored three or more goals in most of their recent matches against Columbus. Rickard Rakell has been particularly effective during this period, ranking third in NHL goals since late November.

Tristan Jarry has contributed significantly as well, helping secure points in nine of his last twelve starts. Defensemen Matt Grzelcyk and Erik Karlsson have also been instrumental recently, contributing assists and goals respectively.

Kevin Hayes returned to the lineup to score his fifth goal of the season and continues to perform well against Columbus specifically. Sidney Crosby is on the brink of reaching significant career milestones, including tying Bobby Hull for sixth-most goals with one franchise and approaching Joe Sakic's record for points with one franchise.