Penguins Look To Turn Things Around In A Crucial Part Of The Season

The Pittsburgh Penguins are reaching a pivotal moment in their season. They could either sink or swim based on the next couple of weeks. Let's take a look at some of the most key games of the month ahead.

Penguins Looking Ahead At Several Key Eastern Conference Games In December

In December the Pittsburgh Penguins will run the Eastern Conference contenders gauntlet.

When it comes to Metropolitan Division matchups the Penguins will face three Divisional opponents in December. They have a pair of games against the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers as well as a game against the Carolina Hurricanes.


All three of these teams sit above the Penguins in the standings. Just one point behind the Flyers Pittsburgh could make up a lot of ground. Within 2 points of the Islanders, their spot is attainable as well. However, if the Penguins fail to capitalize this month they could fall out of the race entirely.

Penguins Need Success Outside Of The Division As Well

With 13 total games in December, the Penguins could take advantage of a huge swing.

A trip up to Canada will provide a good challenge in the middle of the month. Games against the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs will be a good test to see where the Penguins are at. The Penguins will need to show an ability to take care of teams like the Canadiens throughout the month.

The Penguins will face three Western Conference opponents. The Minnesota Wild and Arizona Coyotes are struggling teams that the Penguins need to put away. The Saint Louis Blues are a similar veteran team hungry to get back to the playoffs. If the Penguins could win this game it could be a big momentum getter.

Overall, the month of December could be the turning point for the Penguins when looking back at the end of the year. Hopefully for this group they will be able to look back on the month fondly and not with regret.