2025-10-18 Pittsburgh at San Jose Matchup Preview

Team Records and Recent Performance

The Pittsburgh Penguins enter this contest with a regular season record of 3 wins, 2 losses, and 0 overtime losses. San Jose comes into the game looking to turn around a slow start, with a record of 0 wins, 2 losses, and 2 overtime losses. Pittsburgh will be looking to take a commanding lead in the series and San Jose is looking to stave off falling deeper into the hole.

Offensive Outlook for Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh's offense has been generating 28.34 shots for per game during the regular season. Their power play has been converting at a 23.08 percent clip. Faceoff percentage has been a strength for the Penguins, as they have won 52.77 percent of their faceoffs. Pittsburgh will need to establish their control in the faceoff circle and translate that into sustained offensive zone time.

Defensive Outlook for San Jose

The San Jose Sharks have allowed 31.78 shots against per game so far this regular season. Their penalty kill will be tested against Pittsburgh's capable power play unit, and they will have to be disciplined to not put themselves at a disadvantage. San Jose will need to find a way to limit high-danger scoring chances against and rely on their goaltending to keep them in the game.

Offensive Outlook for San Jose

San Jose's offense has been producing 26.87 shots for per game, a figure they will be looking to improve upon. Their power play has been a bright spot, converting at a rate of 31.25 percent. The Sharks have struggled in the faceoff circle, winning just 48.06 percent of their faceoffs. San Jose will be looking to exploit favorable matchups and generate more scoring opportunities.

Defensive Outlook for Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins have been allowing 30.13 shots against per game. Their ability to shut down San Jose's power play will be a key factor in the game's outcome. Pittsburgh needs to tighten up defensively and reduce the number of shots they are conceding.

Keys to the Game

For Pittsburgh, controlling the neutral zone and limiting San Jose's transition game will be critical. Staying out of the penalty box and capitalizing on their own power play opportunities will also be crucial. San Jose must improve their faceoff win percentage to gain possession and generate more offensive pressure. They need to leverage their power play effectiveness and find a way to penetrate Pittsburgh's defense consistently.

The Goaltending Matchup

Both teams will be relying on their goaltenders to make key saves and keep them in the game. A strong performance between the pipes could be the difference between victory and defeat. The goaltenders will need to be sharp and ready to handle a high volume of shots.

Final Analysis

This matchup pits Pittsburgh's slightly more robust overall offense against San Jose's stronger power play. The game could be a tight, low-scoring affair, with special teams playing a significant role. San Jose's home ice advantage and slightly better power play could give them a slight edge in a close contest. San Jose is looking to establish a strong attack in the offensive zone and rely on that momentum to take the game.

Predicted Score

Pittsburgh 2.0, San Jose 3.0