Penguins Veteran Center Hitting New Level

The Pittsburgh Penguins pulled off one of their most impressive wins of the season against the Vancouver Canucks. Just when they seem out of the playoff picture, they've rattled off three wins in a row. Trying to keep pace in the crowded wild card race, the team continues their road trip in Seattle. Here's what to watch for as the Penguins take on the Kraken.

1. Rak 'N' Roll

Rickard Rakell had his best game of the season in the Penguins' most recent victory. It's been a tough season for the forward, with only 25 points in 44 games and a string of injuries derailing him. 

Desperate to make the postseason, the Pens are banking on getting the 2022-23 version of Rakell for the final 25 games of the season. His two-goal outing in Vancouver is an excellent start, but they need more from him. Can Rakell keep rolling and find his game again as the team continues their West Coast swing?

2. McCann's Elite Emergence

The Kraken are in a similar position to the Penguins, as they are on the outside looking in on the playoffs. If they can climb into a postseason position, it'll be on the back of star forward Jared McCann. The former Penguin has taken his game to new heights since becoming a member of the Kraken. He has a 27 and 40-goal season, respectively, and is already at the 25-goal mark again this year with games to play. He possesses one of the most lethal and underrated shots in the league, and the Penguins will have to limit his scoring chances if they want to leave Seattle with two points. 

3. Eller's Game Peaking

The biggest issue with the Pittsburgh Penguins this season has been their depth scoring. Over this recent improved run, that issue has been resolved. Leading that charge is veteran third-line center Lars Eller. Between the first power play unit and the third line clicking, Eller is currently playing his best hockey. He raised his season stats to 11 goals and 20 points with a two-point performance in Vancouver. Needing another big win, the Pens are counting on Eller to continue his impressive play.

The Penguins and Kraken face off at 10:00 p.m. at Climate Pledge Arena.