Pittsburgh Penguins End 3-Year Playoff Drought

The NHL team clinches a postseason berth for the first time since 2023.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:11am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a hockey game in motion, with players and the ice surface broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes of color.The Pittsburgh Penguins' return to the NHL playoffs after a three-year drought is a triumph of perseverance and team unity.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins have clinched a spot in the 2026 NHL playoffs, ending their three-year drought from the postseason. The Penguins last made the playoffs in 2023 before missing out the following three seasons.

Why it matters

The Penguins are one of the NHL's marquee franchises, having won 5 Stanley Cup championships. Their return to the playoffs will be a boost for the team's loyal fanbase and the city of Pittsburgh, which has a rich hockey tradition.

The details

The Penguins secured their playoff berth with a win over the New Jersey Devils on April 9th. It marks the first time since 2023 that the team will compete in the NHL postseason, having missed out in 2024, 2025, and 2026 prior to this season.

  • The Penguins last made the playoffs in 2023.
  • The Penguins clinched a 2026 playoff spot on April 9th.

The players

Pittsburgh Penguins

A professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that competes in the National Hockey League (NHL).

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What’s next

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

The takeaway

The Penguins' return to the playoffs is a testament to the team's resilience and ability to bounce back after a three-year drought. Fans in Pittsburgh are eager to see their team compete for the Stanley Cup once again.