The Boston Bruins are set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 13, 2025, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This game marks the final regular-season matchup for both teams, with both franchises enduring disappointing seasons and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2006.
Team Form and Recent Performance
- Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins enter this game with a 33-35-12 record and are on a two-game winning streak, including a 4-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils in their last outing. Pittsburgh has averaged 2.95 goals per game this season while allowing 3.51 goals per game, ranking near the bottom of the league defensively. Despite their struggles, Sidney Crosby continues to lead the team with 89 points (32 goals, 57 assists), and Rickard Rakell is one point away from tying his career-high of 69 points. The Penguins have been strong at home recently, earning points in eight of their last 10 home games (7-2-1).
- Boston Bruins: The Bruins have had a challenging season, holding a 32-39-9 record and sitting last in the Eastern Conference standings. They are coming off a 5-2 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, marking their second loss in their last four games. Boston has averaged 2.68 goals per game this season while allowing 3.31 goals per game. David Pastrnak leads the team with 102 points (42 goals, 60 assists), and Morgan Geekie has contributed 55 points (31 goals, 24 assists). The Bruins have struggled on the road, with a 12-25-3 record away from TD Garden.
Key Players to Watch
- Pittsburgh Penguins: Sidney Crosby remains the focal point of the Penguins’ offense, and he is one point away from reaching his ninth 90-point season, a milestone achieved by only 10 players in NHL history. Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust provide additional scoring depth, while Tristan Jarry will need to deliver a strong performance in goal.
- Boston Bruins: David Pastrnak continues to be the offensive engine for the Bruins, while Morgan Geekie and Pavel Zacha add depth to the lineup. Jeremy Swayman will need to step up in goal, as Boston’s defense has been inconsistent throughout the season.
Matchup Analysis
- The Penguins have points in 10 of their last 15 home games against the Bruins dating back to December 2016 (9-5-1). Pittsburgh’s recent home form and balanced scoring give them an edge in this matchup. Boston, on the other hand, will need to improve their defensive efforts and capitalize on scoring opportunities to stay competitive.
- Both teams have struggled defensively this season, which could lead to a high-scoring affair. The Penguins’ ability to control the pace of the game and limit turnovers will be crucial, while the Bruins will need to rely on their star players to make an impact.
Boston Bruins 5.5
Pittsburgh Penguins – 162
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Saturday, April 12, 2025
