The Carolina Hurricanes are set to face the Pittsburgh Penguins in an exciting matchup at PPG Paints Arena on December 30, 2025. This game marks the conclusion of the Hurricanes’ schedule for the year. The puck is slated to drop at 7 p.m.
Matchup Preview: Carolina Hurricanes vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
The Hurricanes approach this game with momentum, having secured a 3-2 overtime victory against the New York Rangers in their previous outing. This success was characterized by their ability to respond after trailing twice in the match.
However, the team faces challenges as goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov is out for the season due to injury, compelling Frederik Andersen to assume a significant role in goal once again.
On the other side, the Penguins enter the game following a commanding 7-3 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. Pittsburgh’s performance has been inconsistent, displaying both offensive prowess—boasting the third-best power play in the league—and challenges in defensive stability.
Player Highlights and Streaks
- Sebastian Aho leads the Hurricanes with 35 points this season.
- Seth Jarvis is the top goal scorer for Carolina with 19 goals.
- Sidney Crosby paces the Penguins with 20 goals and 39 points.
- Sebastian Aho has recorded points in three consecutive games, while teammates Jordan Martinook and Jackson Blake have goals in back-to-back matches.
Game Statistics
| Category | Carolina Hurricanes | Pittsburgh Penguins |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 19 (Seth Jarvis) | 20 (Sidney Crosby) |
| Points | 35 (Sebastian Aho) | 39 (Sidney Crosby) |
| Power Play | 17.8% (22nd) | 29.7% (3rd) |
| Penalty Kill | 80.2% (15th) | 81.7% (12th) |
Injury Updates
- Carolina Hurricanes: Pyotr Kochetkov (hip), Jaccob Slavin (UBI), Seth Jarvis (UBI).
- Pittsburgh Penguins: Evgeni Malkin (UBI), Ryan Graves, Kevin Hayes, and Filip Hallander (leg).
Historical Context
Historically, the Hurricanes have a favorable record against the Penguins, winning 76 out of 164 meetings. They achieved a perfect 3-0-0 record against Pittsburgh in the previous season and boast a 16-3-1 advantage in their last 20 encounters.
With multiple injuries affecting both teams, this matchup promises to be a high-scoring affair. Fans can expect both squads to lay it all on the line as they kick off the final game of the year.
Viewing Information
Fans can tune in to watch the game on FanDuel Sports Network South, Sportsnet Pittsburgh, and Sportsnet.
