Penguins Struggle To Stay Playoff Contenders

Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang, right wing Reilly Smith and center Sidney Crosby, from left, celebrate Smith's goal against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period of an NHL hockey

Kyle Dubas, the general manager/director of hockey operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins, is facing a critical juncture as the team struggles to secure a playoff spot this season. With only eight games remaining before the March 8 deadline, the Penguins find themselves eight points out of a playoff position and are closer to the bottom of the Eastern Conference than a wild-card spot.

The team's star-studded power play has been underperforming, and aside from Sidney Crosby, who continues to excel at 36, goal-scoring has been a challenge. Despite the team's current predicament, Dubas is hesitant to initiate a complete overhaul due to the impressive track record of core players like Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang.

While the Penguins have historically been known for making deadline acquisitions to bolster their Stanley Cup aspirations, this season presents a different scenario. The team's recent performance has raised questions about their playoff potential, with a record of 2-4-1 since the All-Star break.

Dubas, who took over as GM last summer, has made strategic moves to strengthen the roster, including acquiring Erik Karlsson and adding experienced players like Reilly Smith and Lars Eller. However, the team's reliance on older players has led to inconsistent play and a lackluster power play ranking.

Star-studded power play struggling, except for Sidney Crosby.

Penguins 8 points out of playoff spot with 8 games left.

Dubas hesitant to overhaul roster due to core player track record.

Team's recent performance raises doubts about playoff potential.

Coach Mike Sullivan has been experimenting with line combinations in the absence of injured players like Jake Guentzel, but the team has struggled to find consistency. Despite the challenges, Sullivan remains optimistic about the group's potential and their ability to turn the season around.

As the trade deadline approaches, Dubas faces pressure to make decisions that will shape the team's future. Players like Karlsson acknowledge the team's untapped potential but emphasize the need for collective effort to improve performance.

With time running out, the Penguins must rally to prove they are still a playoff-caliber team and salvage their season. The clock is ticking for Dubas and the Penguins as they navigate a crucial period in their quest for postseason success.