The Pittsburgh Penguins (24-29-10) and Colorado Avalanche (35-24-2) are set to face off in an interconference matchup on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. This game features two teams with contrasting seasons: the Avalanche are battling for playoff positioning in the Western Conference, while the Penguins are looking to salvage pride in a challenging campaign. Here’s a detailed preview of the game:
Team Overview
- Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins are currently seventh in the Metropolitan Division and are on the outside looking in for the playoff race. They have struggled with consistency this season, particularly on the road, where they hold a 10-16-5 record. Pittsburgh is coming off a 4-2 loss to the St. Louis Blues, marking their third consecutive defeat. Offensively, the Penguins rank 25th in the league, averaging 2.7 goals per game, while their defense has allowed 3.4 goals per game, ranking 28th. Despite their struggles, the Penguins have seen strong performances from veterans like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, who continue to lead the team.
- Colorado Avalanche: The Avalanche are fourth in the Central Division and are firmly in the playoff hunt. They have been in solid form recently, winning seven of their last 10 games, including a 5-2 victory over the Arizona Coyotes in their most recent outing. Colorado boasts a balanced team, ranking 10th in goals per game (3.3) and 8th in goals allowed per game (2.7). Led by Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, the Avalanche are a dangerous team, particularly at home, where they hold an 18-10-2 record.
Key Players to Watch
- Pittsburgh Penguins:
- Sidney Crosby: The Penguins’ captain leads the team with 65 points (25 goals, 40 assists) this season. His leadership and ability to create scoring opportunities make him a key player for Pittsburgh.
- Evgeni Malkin: The veteran center has tallied 55 points (20 goals, 35 assists) and remains a consistent offensive threat for the Penguins.
- Tristan Jarry: The goaltender has faced a heavy workload this season, with a .902 save percentage and a 3.12 goals-against average. His performance will be critical in keeping Pittsburgh competitive.
- Colorado Avalanche:
- Nathan MacKinnon: The dynamic forward leads the Avalanche with 78 points (30 goals, 48 assists) this season. His speed and playmaking ability make him one of the most dangerous players in the league.
- Cale Makar: The star defenseman has contributed 60 points (15 goals, 45 assists) while anchoring Colorado’s blue line. His ability to generate offense from the back end is a key asset for the Avalanche.
- Alexandar Georgiev: The goaltender has been solid, with a .918 save percentage and a 2.55 goals-against average. His ability to make timely saves gives Colorado a significant advantage.
Matchup Analysis
- Offense vs. Defense: Colorado’s high-powered offense will test Pittsburgh’s struggling defense. The Avalanche’s ability to generate scoring chances and capitalize on the power play (ranked 7th in the NHL at 25.3%) could be a deciding factor. Meanwhile, the Penguins will need to rely on their veteran stars to create offense and challenge Colorado’s disciplined defense.
- Special Teams: The Avalanche’s power play has been a strength, while their penalty kill ranks 11th in the league (82.3%). The Penguins’ power play has been inconsistent, ranking 22nd (18.1%), and their penalty kill is 20th (79.5%). Special teams could play a pivotal role in this game.
- Key Matchup: The duel between Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon will be a highlight. Both players are capable of taking over the game, and their performances could heavily influence the outcome.
Injury Report
- Pittsburgh Penguins:
- Kris Letang (upper body) is questionable.
- Bryan Rust (lower body) is out.
- Colorado Avalanche:
- Gabriel Landeskog (knee) is out.
- Bowen Byram (upper body) is questionable.
What to Expect
This game is expected to be a fast-paced and competitive contest. The Avalanche enter as the favorites, given their superior record, home-ice advantage, and recent form. However, the Penguins’ veteran leadership and ability to rise to the occasion make them a dangerous opponent. Expect Colorado to rely on their star players and depth to secure a victory, while Pittsburgh will look to play spoiler and snap their losing streak.
Pittsburgh Penguins 6.5
Colorado Avalanche – 278
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, March 3, 2025
