Pittsburgh comes into this game off of a 5-4 loss to the New York Islanders in overtime. With the loss, the Penguins have lost two straight and are 7-1-2 in their last 10. With an overall record of 28-15-12, Pittsburgh sits second in the Metropolitan Division, a point ahead of the Islanders with two games in hand.

In the final game before the Olympic break, the Penguins are looking to end their losing skid and build some momentum. A factor to look out for in this game is going to be the Penguins’ power play. Although it’s top five in the NHL this season, it’s gone cold over the last week or so. However, the team’s penalty kill has gone in the opposite direction and now ranks third in the NHL. Against one of the league’s hottest teams in the NHL, the Buffalo Sabres, special teams will be crucial for success. 

Even in the loss, there are some positives coming out of the last game. The biggest one is the continued excellence of recent addition Egor Chinakhov. Scoring a goal against the Islanders, Chinakhov is up to eight goals and 11 points through 17 games with the Penguins. With a goal in the game, Anthony Mantha has put together a terrific season with the organization as well. The winger has 20 goals and 41 points through 55 games this season. Another recent addition, Ilya Solovyov, has also been doing well in his first few games with the black and gold. The Russian defenceman coming over from the Colorado Avalanche through trade has appeared in four games so far with the Penguins. Playing a primarily defensive role, Solovyov has scored two assists and given valuable minutes to Pittsburgh so far. 

Arturs Silovs is it expected to start in the net as per the Penguins’ usual rotation; however, this is subject to change, especially with this being the final game before the Olympic break. Always check up-to-date lineups before the game before locking in any kind of bet. Silovs is 10-7-8 this season with an .895 save percentage. However, at this point it is a good time for our disclaimer. Please check social media for the latest rosters updates before locking in your daily fantasy starters.Â