Preview: Surging Penguins Visit Islanders in Key Eastern Conference Matchup BELMONT PARK, N.Y. (Interstat) — Two teams riding strong stretches of play will meet when the Pittsburgh Penguins visit the New York Islanders on Tuesday night at UBS Arena. The Penguins (28-25-0) enter on a five-game winning streak, having averaged 5.4 goals per game over that dominant run. Their most recent victory was a 6-5 shootout win over the New York Rangers on Saturday, powered by a two-goal performance from forward Noel Acciari. Acciari has been a key contributor during Pittsburgh’s surge, recording four points (two goals, two assists) in his last three games. His recent uptick in offensive production has provided valuable depth scoring behind the team’s star players. The Islanders (30-25-0), sitting just ahead of Pittsburgh in the standings, have won three of their last four games. Their offense is spearheaded by center Mathew Barzal, who has been consistently productive with eight points (three goals, five assists) in his last nine contests. Barzal registered a goal and an assist in the Islanders’ last outing, a 4-3 loss to the Nashville Predators on Saturday. This will be the second meeting between the clubs this season. Pittsburgh won the first matchup 4-3 on Oct. 9, 2025, in a game that required a third-period comeback. The Islanders will look to leverage home-ice advantage at UBS Arena, where they have played solid hockey this season, to slow down the Penguins’ high-powered attack. Pittsburgh’s recent success has been marked by explosive offensive performances, scoring six goals in three of their last five victories. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, the Islanders are projected to edge the Penguins with a 4-3 final score. Following this contest, both teams face quick turnarounds. The Penguins travel to face the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday, while the Islanders head to New Jersey to take on the Devils the same night. The outcome of Tuesday’s game could carry significant weight in a tightly contested Eastern Conference playoff race.