Penguins clinch playoff spot with 5-2 win over Devils

Pittsburgh secures postseason berth with victory over New Jersey

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:50am

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring dynamic brushstrokes and neon colors that capture the intensity and excitement of a professional hockey game.The Penguins' playoff-clinching victory over the Devils showcases the team's enduring excellence and ability to overcome adversity.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins clinched a playoff spot by defeating the New Jersey Devils 5-2. Evgeni Malkin scored and had two points, Sidney Crosby set up two goals, and Kris Letang recorded an assist in the win.

Why it matters

The Penguins' playoff clinching extends their impressive streak of making the postseason, a testament to the team's consistent excellence and ability to overcome injuries and roster changes over the years.

The details

The Penguins jumped out to an early lead and never looked back, getting goals from Evgeni Malkin, Sidney Crosby, and others to secure the victory over the Devils. Pittsburgh's veteran core of Malkin, Crosby, and Letang played key roles in the win.

  • The game was played on April 10, 2026.

The players

Evgeni Malkin

A veteran center for the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored a goal and recorded two points in the playoff-clinching win.

Sidney Crosby

The captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins who set up two goals in the victory over the New Jersey Devils.

Kris Letang

A defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who recorded an assist in the game.

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What they’re saying

“This is a big win for our team and our fans. We've worked hard all season to get to this point and I'm proud of the effort the guys put in tonight.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins

What’s next

The Penguins will await their first-round playoff opponent, which will be determined in the coming days as the regular season concludes.

The takeaway

The Penguins' playoff clinching extends their remarkable run of postseason appearances, showcasing the team's sustained excellence and ability to overcome injuries and roster changes to remain a perennial contender in the NHL.