Penguins Eliminate Panthers, Inch Closer to Playoff Spot

Pittsburgh takes down two-time defending champs in back-to-back games.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 6:56pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the action and energy of a hockey game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Florida Panthers, with the players' movements and the intensity of the match represented through the fractured, overlapping planes of the composition.The Penguins' decisive victories over the reigning champions have put them in prime position to secure a playoff spot.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Florida Panthers for the second consecutive day, eliminating the two-time defending Stanley Cup champions from playoff contention. Penguins stars Rickard Rakell and Sidney Crosby led the way, with Rakell scoring twice and Crosby adding a goal and two assists.

Why it matters

The Penguins' wins over the Panthers have put them in a strong position to clinch a playoff spot, continuing the team's streak of postseason appearances. The defending champions' elimination is a significant development in the NHL's Eastern Conference playoff race.

The details

The Penguins followed up their victory over the Panthers on Wednesday with another win on Thursday, solidifying their hold on a playoff position. Rakell scored twice, while Crosby contributed a goal and two assists to the effort.

  • The Penguins defeated the Panthers on Wednesday, April 5, 2026.
  • The Penguins defeated the Panthers again on Thursday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Rickard Rakell

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored two goals in the team's back-to-back wins over the Panthers.

Sidney Crosby

The captain and star center for the Pittsburgh Penguins, who recorded a goal and two assists in the team's victories over the Panthers.

Florida Panthers

The two-time defending Stanley Cup champions who were eliminated from playoff contention following their losses to the Penguins.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The NHL team that defeated the defending champion Panthers in consecutive games, moving closer to clinching a playoff spot.

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What they’re saying

“We knew these games against Florida were going to be crucial, and the guys really stepped up to the challenge. This puts us in a great position heading into the final stretch.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

What’s next

The Penguins will look to clinch a playoff spot in their remaining regular season games, while the Panthers' focus will shift to the offseason and making roster changes to bounce back next year.

The takeaway

The Penguins' back-to-back wins over the defending champions have solidified their position in the playoff race, showcasing the team's resilience and ability to rise to the occasion against top competition.