Overview
- Puck drop is 7 p.m. ET at PPG Paints Arena for the teams’ second meeting after New Jersey’s 2-1 shootout win on Nov. 8.
- Pittsburgh has scored 25 goals across its five-game run, most recently rallying to beat Columbus 5-4 in overtime on Sidney Crosby’s winner.
- The Devils arrive on a prolonged scoring drought and a 9-0 loss to the Islanders that coach Sheldon Keefe called embarrassing and unacceptable.
- Evgeni Malkin returned to full practice this week and is projected to be available, pending final decisions before game time.
- New Jersey defenseman Simon Nemec practiced and is expected to suit up if no late setback occurs, offering a potential boost on the blue line.