"The Pittsburgh Penguins were not expected to be a playoff team in 2025-26; their preseason standings points over/under was 77.5, which a number that they've already blown past as they sit in second place in the Metro."
"If Pittsburgh wants to take the division crown, this game and the return match on March 22 against the Canes are basically must-wins given the deficit. Aside from the two games against the Canes, the Penguins' remaining schedule includes just four games against current playoff teams, and nine against teams not in a playoff spot."
"Stathletes projects the Hurricanes' division title chances at 97.2%, with the Penguins' at 1.5%. But hey, that's not zero!"
The Pittsburgh Penguins, unexpectedly competitive in 2025-26 after preseason projections of 77.5 points, sit second in the Metropolitan Division behind the Carolina Hurricanes. The Penguins trail by seven points but hold a favorable remaining schedule with nine games against non-playoff teams. Wednesday's matchup against Carolina represents a crucial four-point swing opportunity, with a return game on March 22. While statistical models give the Hurricanes a 97.2% division title probability compared to Pittsburgh's 1.5%, the Penguins' path remains mathematically viable with approximately 15 games remaining before the April 16 season conclusion.
#nhl-division-race #pittsburgh-penguins #carolina-hurricanes #metropolitan-division #playoff-contention
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