Pittsburgh Penguins: 2017-18 Atlantic Division Preview

Florida Panthers

The Florida Panthers also finished in the bottom of the Eastern Conference but will be looking for a better run this season. While the Panthers weren’t the most improved team through the offseason, their intention will still be to win.

Last season, the Penguins topped the Panthers in all three matchups they took the ice for. Two of the Pens’ wins carried goal differentials of four goals and were a dynamic show of the Penguins’ top offense.

The Panthers have had problems finding their footing in the best system that works for them. Florida’s system is mostly defensive and their penalty kill is very strong, but when it comes to scoring and keeping leads they struggle.

Pittsburgh can keep their dominance over Florida by keeping their strong offensive play alive.  The Penguins need to keep pushing to the net to make plays to get ahead, while their very reliable goal tending in Matt Murray can help them stay ahead.