Preview: Devils at Penguins, Thursday, February 26, 2026 PITTSBURGH (Interstat) — Two Eastern Conference teams on divergent trajectories will meet Thursday night when the Pittsburgh Penguins host the New Jersey Devils at PPG Paints Arena. The Penguins (29-27-0) enter on a high, having won five of their last six games, including a decisive 5-2 road victory over the Buffalo Sabres on Feb. 5. Their offense has been potent during this stretch, scoring four or more goals in four of those wins. Goaltender Arturs Silovs, who made 26 saves in the win over Buffalo, has provided stability. In contrast, the Devils (28-29-0) are mired in a slump, having lost four consecutive games and seven of their last ten. They are coming off a 3-1 home loss to the New York Islanders on Feb. 5, a game in which they managed just 13 shots on goal. Captain Nico Hischier scored their lone goal in that contest. The season series is split 1-1. The Penguins dominated the most recent matchup, a 4-1 win in Pittsburgh on Jan. 8. The Devils won the prior meeting 2-1 in a shootout in New Jersey on Nov. 8. Pittsburgh’s recent success has been fueled by strong play at home, where they have won three straight. The Devils, meanwhile, have struggled on the road lately, dropping three of their last four away from home. Statistically, the Penguins hold a slight edge in the standings and carry significant momentum. According to National Statistical’s game simulator, Pittsburgh is projected to win by a score of 5-2. For New Jersey, reversing their fortunes will require jumpstarting an offense that has been held to one goal or shut out in three of their last four games. Defensive focus will also be critical against a surging Penguins attack. The game is the start of a challenging stretch for both clubs. Following Thursday’s contest, the Penguins embark on a difficult four-game road trip featuring matchups with the New York Rangers and Boston Bruins. The Devils continue a road swing in St. Louis on Saturday before returning home for a six-game homestand. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. EST.