Panthers Kick Off Stanley Cup Defense in ESPN Tripleheader NHL Action
Historic NHL Showdown: Penguins’ Legacy and Eager Returns in This Season’s Matchups
The much-anticipated game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers is not just another matchup; it symbolizes the 20th season of a legendary trio that has defined hockey excellence. Sidney Crosby, Kris Letang, and Evgeni Malkin have brought a staggering total of 3,703 regular-season points to the ice as the highest-scoring trio for a single team in NHL history.
While Letang is signed for three more seasons and Crosby has two years left on his contract, this season could mark the last for Malkin, who is entering the final year of his contract at the age of 39.
Comeback King: Gabriel Landeskog’s Return to the Ice
In addition to the Penguins’ monumental legacy, the NHL is buzzing with the return of Colorado Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog. After missing significant time due to a knee injury, Landeskog is set to make his comeback in Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round against the Dallas Stars. This marks his first game since the Avalanche’s Stanley Cup victory on June 26, 2022.
Fans can expect to see Landeskog compete in his first regular-season game since March 10, 2022, when he faces off against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. This game is scheduled for 10:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN, SN1, and TVAS.
Farewell Season for Anze Kopitar: A King to Remember
As the season unfolds, another poignant moment looms: Anze Kopitar, the core of the Los Angeles Kings, has announced that this will be his final NHL season. Having served as the team’s captain since June 16, 2016, Kopitar has paved the way for the Kings, leading them to two Stanley Cup championships in 2012 and 2014.
In his illustrious career, Kopitar has played all 1,454 games for the Kings, amassing 1,278 points with 440 goals and 838 assists. A two-time Selke Trophy winner and a three-time Lady Byng Memorial Trophy recipient, he remains one of the most respected figures in the league. Last season, he contributed 67 points, including 21 goals and 46 assists, solidifying his legacy.
Upcoming Schedule Highlights
The excitement surrounding these matchups is palpable, with several key games scheduled:
- Chicago Blackhawks at Florida Panthers, 5 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN1, TVAS
- Pittsburgh Penguins at New York Rangers, 8 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN1, TVAS
- Colorado Avalanche at Los Angeles Kings, 10:30 p.m. ET; ESPN, SN1, TVAS
This NHL season promises to blend nostalgia and thrilling competition, as both veteran athletes and beloved teams take the stage in pursuit of glory. As we navigate through these significant moments, fans worldwide are left on the edge of their seats, waiting to witness history come to life on the ice.
