NHL Preview: Vegas Golden Knights (38-19-6) vs. Pittsburgh Penguins (25-31-10)

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Date and Time: Tuesday, March 11, 2025, 7:00 PM ET Location: PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania TV Channel: SportsNet Pittsburgh, ESPN+ Live Stream: Available on Fubo (Regional restrictions may apply)

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Team Overview:

Vegas Golden Knights: The Vegas Golden Knights have had an impressive season, currently holding a 38-19-6 record and sitting near the top of the Western Conference. They are coming off a 6-5 loss to the Los Angeles Kings but have been strong overall, averaging 3.36 goals per game while allowing just 2.73 goals per game. Key players include Jack Eichel, who leads the team with 77 points, and Mark Stone, who has 56 points1. Goaltender Adin Hill has been solid, with a 23-11-4 record, a 2.60 GAA, and a .904 SV%.

Pittsburgh Penguins: The Pittsburgh Penguins have had a challenging season, currently holding a 25-31-10 record and sitting outside the playoff picture in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a 3-1 win against the Minnesota Wild, snapping a four-game losing streak. The Penguins have struggled defensively, allowing 3.59 goals per game1. Key players include Sidney Crosby, who leads the team with 68 points, and Rickard Rakell, who has 54 points. Goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic has a 12-14-5 record, a 3.17 GAA, and a .891 SV%1.

Key Matchups:

Jack Eichel vs. Sidney Crosby:

This matchup features two dynamic forwards who can score and create opportunities for their teammates. Eichel’s playmaking ability and Crosby’s leadership will be crucial for their respective teams.

Mark Stone vs. Rickard Rakell:

Stone’s two-way play and Rakell’s offensive contributions will be on display in this matchup. Stone’s ability to control the game and Rakell’s scoring touch will be key factors.

Adin Hill vs. Alex Nedeljkovic:

Hill’s solid goaltending will be tested against Nedeljkovic, who has shown flashes of brilliance. This battle in the crease could be a deciding factor in the game.

Team Insights:

Vegas Golden Knights:

The Golden Knights have been strong on both ends of the ice, averaging 3.36 goals per game while allowing just 2.73 goals per game.

Vegas’ depth has been a strength, with contributions from players like Tomas Hertl and Shea Theodore. Their ability to maintain a high level of play throughout the game will be crucial.

Pittsburgh Penguins:

The Penguins have struggled defensively, allowing 3.59 goals per game. They will need to tighten up their defense to have a chance against the high-powered Golden Knights.

Offensively, the Penguins rely heavily on Crosby and Rakell to generate scoring opportunities. Secondary scoring from players like Bryan Rust and Erik Karlsson will be essential.

Injury Report:

Vegas Golden Knights:

No significant injuries reported.

Pittsburgh Penguins:

No significant injuries reported.

Vegas Golden Knights                    – 218

Pittsburgh Penguins                       6.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, March 10, 2025

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