Thu Jan 08 23:40:00 UTC 2026: # Penguins Face Desperate Devils After Humiliating Loss

The Story

The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to face the New Jersey Devils on January 9, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. Eastern. The Devils are reeling from a devastating 9-0 loss to the Islanders, while the Penguins are riding a 5-0-0 winning streak since Christmas. The game marks the second of four meetings between the teams this season, with New Jersey having won the first matchup in a shootout. Pittsburgh aims to capitalize on New Jersey’s struggles, which include poor scoring, goaltending, and penalty killing.

Key Points

  • The New Jersey Devils have a 6-11-1 record since the start of December, including a 2-5-1 record in their last eight games.
  • The Devils have scored 0 or 1 goals in 11 of their last 25 games, averaging just 2.08 goals per game during that stretch.
  • The Penguins have a 5-0-0 record since December 25, 2025, ranking near the top of the league in wins, points, goals for, goals against, and power play percentage.
  • Sidney Crosby is on a five-game point streak, accumulating 5 goals and 7 assists.
  • The Penguins’ schedule includes three games in four days, with matchups against Calgary and Boston following the Devils game.

Key Takeaways

  • The Penguins are heavily favored due to their current winning streak and the Devils’ poor performance.
  • The Devils will likely be motivated to put forth a strong “response game” after their embarrassing loss.
  • Pittsburgh needs to avoid complacency and exploit New Jersey’s weaknesses to maintain their winning momentum.
  • The Penguins’ upcoming schedule presents a challenging stretch that will test their endurance and consistency.
  • Sidney Crosby’s pursuit of Ray Bourque’s assist record adds an interesting subplot to the Penguins’ season.

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