Penguins Look to Turn Things Around Against Lightning

The Penguins (10-10-1) face a tough test as they visit the Lightning (10-8-5) on Thursday Night.

Penguins Looking for a Bounce Back Game in Tampa

Although their record may not seem spectacular, the Lightning recently got their all-star goalie back from injury and are always a tough opponent. The Penguins currently sit 7th in the Metro and will be looking to pick up the win and try to get some momentum as we pass the quarter point in the season.

Key Factors for the Penguins

This first factor goes without saying, but the power play has just got to be better. I can't remember the last time the Penguins scored a power play goal, and this is clearly holding them back. I'm not sure what needs to be done regarding this, but something needs to change quickly.

The lines will likely remain the same as they did in Nashville, according to the workflow from Wednesday morning's practice. Jarry is expected to get the start after a days rest, and the Penguins absolutely need him to be sharp to win this one. Jarry currently has a 2.48 GAA and a .918 SV% and has showed glimmers of brilliance at times this season.


As always, I expect the top line of Guentzel - Crosby - Rust will be firing, but it is key that the bottom six contributes on the score sheet as well. Malkin and Smith also seemed to work very well together when they connected for that beauty the other night, look for them to keep it up.


Ultimately, most of the success this team has had this season has occurred when all four lines were chipping in. It's worth noting that I also really liked John Ludvig's game on Tuesday night and I hope that he can bring the physicality and energy to the lineup on Thursday.

Lastly, I wanted to mention the injuries. Rakell remains week to week with an upper body injury, Ruhwedel remains on the IR with a lower body ailment. The good news is that Joseph was a full participant in Tuesday's practice which hints towards his return being soon.

All things considered, this is a big game for the Penguins and it would be a very nice one to win. I felt the team played very well Tuesday they just couldn't come away with it.

Let's hope they build on that performance and beat Tampa on Thursday night.

Details to follow.