As the 2025-26 NHL season progresses, the Pittsburgh Penguins are making headlines, particularly with standout performances from Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby. On November 10, 2025, the New York Rangers face off against the Penguins, set to be a thrilling matchup following notable team achievements.
Malkin’s Historic Start
Evgeni Malkin has kicked off the season remarkably, accumulating five assists across the first two games. This impressive start positions him second in the NHL for points, trailing only Vegas’ Jack Eichel. Malkin is the first Penguins player to achieve five assists in the opening two games since Mario Lemieux in the 2000-01 season.
Historical Context
- Malkin’s back-to-back multi-assist games are the first for the Penguins since Sidney Crosby’s performance in 2022-23.
- Kevin Stevens holds the franchise record for three consecutive multi-assist games, recorded in the 1990-91 season.
Crosby’s Achievements
In the recent victory over the New York Islanders, Crosby tallied two points, now totaling 626 goals with the Penguins. This milestone places him ahead of NHL greats Joe Sakic and Jarome Iginla for the 16th-most goals in league history. Crosby is one assist away from surpassing Steve Yzerman for ninth-most assists all-time.
Rookie Sensation: Harrison Brunicke
Making his mark, rookie defenseman Harrison Brunicke scored his first NHL goal in just his second game. This achievement makes him the first player born in South Africa to score in the NHL. At 19 years and 154 days old, he is also one of the youngest defensemen in Penguins history to score a goal.
Veteran Contributions from Bryan Rust
Winger Bryan Rust is nearing his season debut, having participated fully in practice. Last season, he achieved personal bests with 31 goals and 65 points, climbing into the top ten in Penguins’ all-time goals with 209.
Statistical Highlights
- Rust has scored 20 or more goals for six consecutive seasons, a feat accomplished by only 19 NHL players.
- He finished the last season strongly with nine goals in 12 games, tied for the team lead.
Goaltending Milestone for Arturs Silovs
Rookie goaltender Arturs Silovs made a memorable debut, stopping all 25 shots to secure his first career shutout. He joins the ranks of notable goaltenders in Penguins history, recording a shutout in his first game with the team.
Key Performances and Stats
- Kris Letang is just three assists away from becoming the 20th defenseman in NHL history to reach 600 assists.
- Meanwhile, forward Justin Brazeau scored his third goal this season, a record for scoring game-winners in his first two outings for the team.
- Pittsburgh’s penalty kill has been exceptional, going 5-for-5 so far.
- The Penguins have scored seven goals, ranking them second behind the Vegas Golden Knights.
The Penguins are set for an exciting match against the Rangers, with fans eagerly anticipating how these players will continue to shape the season. The Pittsburgh team looks to maintain its strong start as they aim for victory in their upcoming clash on November 10, 2025.
