Overview
- Across back-to-back games, Pittsburgh squandered a 5-1 third-period lead to San Jose in a 6-5 overtime loss and a 3-0 third-period lead to Utah in another overtime defeat, conceding eight third-period goals in total.
- The slide reached five straight losses as the Penguins sat fifth in the Metropolitan Division and third in the Wild Card race, one point behind Boston with two games in hand.
- Earlier in the week, Pittsburgh traded Tristan Jarry to Edmonton for Stuart Skinner and Brett Kulak, with Kulak set to make his Penguins debut against the Oilers.
- Analysts contend the club needs further action, citing potential demotions and call-ups and highlighting Kris Letang’s struggles as part of the late-game issues.
- Roster churn continued as Matt Dumba cleared waivers and was assigned to AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, and prospect Emil Pieniniemi’s suspension was lifted so he can report to ECHL Wheeling.