Penguins Rest Crosby, Malkin Ahead of Playoffs

Penguins sit star players before crucial postseason matchup with Capitals

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:15am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game in fragmented, overlapping planes of color, representing the complex balance between player performance and wellness in the NHL.The Penguins' strategic decision to rest their star players ahead of the playoffs reflects the league's need to prioritize long-term player health and sustainability.Today in Pittsburgh

The Pittsburgh Penguins have decided to rest star players Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin for their upcoming game against the Washington Capitals, raising questions about the team's strategy ahead of the NHL playoffs.

Why it matters

This move highlights the delicate balance between player health and team performance in professional sports. The Penguins' decision to prioritize long-term player wellness over a single regular season game raises broader questions about the sustainability of the NHL's schedule and the league's approach to managing player workloads.

The details

The Penguins have already clinched a playoff spot, giving them the flexibility to rest their two franchise cornerstones Crosby and Malkin for the matchup against the Capitals. This strategic decision aims to ensure the stars are fresh and ready for the crucial postseason run ahead.

  • The Penguins play the Capitals on April 12, 2026.

The players

Sidney Crosby

A legendary NHL center and captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, known for his elite playmaking skills and leadership on the ice.

Evgeni Malkin

A skilled Russian center who has played his entire NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, forming a dynamic duo with Sidney Crosby.

Pittsburgh Penguins

A professional ice hockey team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a member of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Washington Capitals

A professional ice hockey team based in Washington, D.C., and a rival of the Pittsburgh Penguins in the NHL's Metropolitan Division.

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What’s next

The Penguins' decision to rest Crosby and Malkin will be closely watched by the NHL and fans alike, as it could set a precedent for how teams manage their star players ahead of the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Penguins' decision to prioritize long-term player health over a single regular season game highlights the need for the NHL to reevaluate its approach to player workload and schedule, ensuring the sustainability of the league and the well-being of its athletes.