Red Wings, Penguins Open 2026 With Key Eastern Conference Clash PITTSBURGH (Interstat) — The Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins will open the 2026 calendar year with a pivotal Eastern Conference matchup Thursday at PPG Paints Arena. The Red Wings (23-17-0) enter on a strong run, having earned points in seven of their last 10 games (7-2-1), including a 3-2 overtime victory over Toronto on Sunday. Detroit sits in a playoff position and has shown resilience, winning three of its last four games in overtime. Conversely, the Penguins (17-21-0) are looking to build momentum after a 5-1 win over Carolina on Tuesday snapped a three-game losing skid. Pittsburgh has struggled for consistency, posting a 3-6-1 record over its last 10 contests. A key matchup will feature Detroit defenseman Simon Edvinsson against Pittsburgh forward Anthony Mantha. Edvinsson is coming off a goal and four-shot performance against Toronto and has recorded six points (two goals, four assists) in his last 11 games while providing a consistent physical presence. Mantha, facing his former team, is riding a hot streak with four goals and an assist in his last three games, including a two-goal effort against Carolina. His offensive surge is vital for a Penguins team that has been outscored 34-24 during its recent 3-6-1 stretch. In net, Detroit’s Cam Talbot is expected to start after making 25 saves in the win over Toronto. Pittsburgh likely will counter with Stuart Skinner, who stopped 27 of 28 shots against Carolina. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, Detroit is projected to win 3-2. The teams will meet again in Detroit on Saturday. The Penguins will need to contain a balanced Detroit attack and find secondary scoring behind Mantha and captain Sidney Crosby, who had a goal in the last outing. The Red Wings will aim to continue their strong defensive play and timely scoring as they begin a challenging January schedule. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.