Pittsburgh Penguins Summary

The Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up for the 2026-27 season, set to begin with a highly anticipated matchup against their rivals, the Philadelphia Flyers, on September 30. This game will mark the first time the two teams meet since the Flyers eliminated the Penguins in the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season.

Following the season opener, the Penguins will host their home opener against the Montreal Canadiens on October 3, and then face the Washington Capitals on October 7. Roster changes are significant as forward Anthony Mantha, who had a standout season with 33 goals and 31 assists in 81 games, has signed with the New Jersey Devils for two years at an average of $4.75 million after a revitalizing year with the Penguins.

The Penguins face a competitive landscape in the Metropolitan Division, with the Capitals and Devils also making notable roster changes. President of hockey operations and general manager Kyle Dubas is navigating a crowded roster, contemplating potential trades, especially with players like Rickard Rakell being speculated as trade candidates due to his reasonable cap hit and productivity.

As the Penguins prepare for the upcoming season, the uncertainty regarding their division rivals adds to the stakes, making the Penguins' strategy crucial for their playoff aspirations.