Event Preview
Overview
The New York Rangers are set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This Metropolitan Division matchup is crucial for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning. The Penguins, currently 30-15-12, are in the hunt for a higher seed, while the Rangers, at 22-29-7, are striving to close the gap and improve their standing.
Season Snapshot
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins have demonstrated a strong offensive presence, averaging 3.41 goals per game, ranking 4th in the league. Their power play efficiency stands at 29.1%, placing them 8th overall. Defensively, they allow 2.89 goals per game, which is 10th in the NHL. Key players include Sidney Crosby, who leads the team with 24 goals and 47 points, and defenseman Erik Karlsson, who has contributed 28 assists and 31 points. (thescore.com)
New York Rangers
The Rangers have faced challenges this season, averaging 2.61 goals per game, ranking 27th in the league. Their power play operates at 22.7%, placing them 11th. Defensively, they concede 3.16 goals per game, which is 20th in the NHL. Artemi Panarin leads the team with 16 goals and 44 points, while defenseman Adam Fox has added 28 assists and 44 points. (thescore.com)
Recent Form
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Penguins have shown resilience, winning three of their last five games. Their most recent victory was a 6-5 win over the Rangers on January 31, 2026, where Anthony Mantha and Noel Acciari each scored twice. (espn.com)
New York Rangers
The Rangers have struggled recently, losing their last five games. In their previous matchup against the Penguins, they narrowly lost 6-5, despite a strong third-period effort. (espn.com)
Talking Points
-
Injury Impact: The Penguins are without captain Sidney Crosby due to a lower-body injury, which could affect their offensive dynamics. (cbssports.com)
-
Rangers' Power Play: With a power play efficiency of 22.7%, the Rangers need to capitalize on special teams opportunities to gain an edge. (thescore.com)
-
Goaltending Matchup: The performance of Rangers' goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who has a 2.47 GAA and .912 SV%, will be crucial against the Penguins' potent offense. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
-
Playoff Implications: Both teams are vying for playoff positioning, making this game a potential turning point in their respective seasons.
Players to Watch
-
Sidney Crosby (PIT): Despite his injury, Crosby's leadership and scoring ability have been pivotal for the Penguins this season. (cbssports.com)
-
Artemi Panarin (NYR): Leading the Rangers with 16 goals and 44 points, Panarin's playmaking skills are essential for the team's success. (thescore.com)
-
Erik Karlsson (PIT): With 28 assists and 31 points, Karlsson's offensive contributions from the blue line are significant. (thescore.com)
-
Igor Shesterkin (NYR): The Rangers' goaltender has a 2.47 GAA and .912 SV%, making his performance critical in this matchup. (sportsdata.usatoday.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
-
Offensive vs. Defensive Play: The Penguins' high-scoring offense faces the Rangers' defensive unit, which has struggled this season. How the Rangers manage the Penguins' attack will be pivotal.
-
Special Teams Battle: With both teams having strong power plays, the effectiveness of their penalty kills could be a deciding factor.
-
Goaltending Duel: Shesterkin's ability to withstand the Penguins' offensive pressure will be crucial for the Rangers' chances.
Fun Facts
-
Penguins' Power Play: The Penguins' power play efficiency of 29.1% ranks 8th in the NHL. (thescore.com)
-
Rangers' Faceoff Percentage: The Rangers lead the league with a 54.5% faceoff win percentage. (thescore.com)
-
Previous Matchup: In their last encounter on January 31, 2026, the Penguins edged out the Rangers 6-5. (espn.com)
Things to Chirp About
-
"With Crosby out, can the Penguins still maintain their offensive prowess?"
-
"Will the Rangers' power play finally click against the Penguins' penalty kill?"
-
"Can Shesterkin stand tall against Pittsburgh's high-powered offense?"
-
"How crucial is this game for the Rangers' playoff aspirations?"
Prediction
While the Penguins have been strong this season, the absence of Sidney Crosby could impact their offensive output. The Rangers, despite their recent struggles, have the potential to capitalize on this and leverage their home-ice advantage. This game is expected to be closely contested, with the outcome hinging on special teams performance and goaltending.