Opinion
3 min read

Penguins Glide into Oilers' Territory: A Clash at Rogers Place

As the Pittsburgh Penguins prepare to face off against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place, fans are eager to see if their team can carry the momentum from their recent performances. The Penguins have shown a mix of resilience and vulnerability in their past games, which could be pivotal in predicting the outcome of this upcoming match.


Feb 23, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brian Dumoulin (8) moves the puck as Edmonton Oilers right wing Kailer Yamamoto (56) chases during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Edmonton won 7-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on February 21 against the New York Islanders, despite falling short with a score of 4-5 after an intense overtime battle, PIT demonstrated a strong offensive presence by firing 41 shots on goal. Their shooting percentage stood at 10 percent, and they dominated faceoffs with a winning percentage of 58 percent. However, defensive lapses were evident as they gave away possession 14 times and were outscored during even strength play.


On February 18 against the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh's performance was less than stellar. They managed only one goal from an impressive total of 30 shots – translating to a mere three percent shooting success rate. The powerplay opportunities were plentiful but fruitless; despite five chances with the man advantage, they capitalized only once. This inefficiency must be addressed if they hope to overcome Edmonton's defense.


Feb 23, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) scores a goal on a penalty shot against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Casey DeSmith (1) during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. Edmonton won 7-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

However, it's not all doom and gloom for PIT fans. On February 16 versus the Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh showcased what they're capable of when things click into place – securing a victory with four goals scored on just 27 shots for an impressive shooting percentage of fifteen percent while also being shorthanded.


The Oilers will undoubtedly pose a challenge; their home advantage at Rogers Place is something that cannot be overlooked. Edmonton has been known for its high-scoring offense this season and will test Pittsburgh's defense throughout all three periods.


Feb 23, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97)is upended by Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Brian Dumoulin (8) into Pens goaltender Casey DeSmith (1) during the third period at PPG Paints Arena. McDavid (97) was awarded a penalty shot as a result. Edmonton won 7-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

For PIT to emerge victorious in this encounter, it is crucial that they capitalize on powerplay opportunities unlike in previous games and tighten up defensively to minimize giveaways that could lead to scoring chances for EDM.


The scheduled game promises excitement as two formidable teams clash on March fourth at nine PM Eastern Time (seven PM local time) in Edmonton’s renowned arena – Rogers Place. Fans won't want to miss what could potentially be one of the most thrilling games of the season; those unable to attend can catch every second live through ESPN+ online or SportsNet PT television broadcasts.

Rate the article

Related stories

Pittsburgh Penguins to Dominate Vancouver Canucks in Upcoming Showdown at PPG Paints Arena
Opinion

Pittsburgh Penguins to Dominate Vancouver Canucks in Upcoming Showdown at PPG Paints Arena

4 min read
Can the Pittsburgh Penguins Glide Past Utah Hockey Club in Upcoming Clash?
Opinion

Can the Pittsburgh Penguins Glide Past Utah Hockey Club in Upcoming Clash?

3 min read
Pittsburgh Penguins Ready to Turn the Tide Against Winnipeg Jets at PPG Paints Arena
Opinion

Pittsburgh Penguins Ready to Turn the Tide Against Winnipeg Jets at PPG Paints Arena

3 min read