On April 9, 2026, the Pittsburgh Penguins secured their playoff position with a decisive 5-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Bryan Rust opened the scoring, followed by a quick response from Evgeni Malkin and a standout performance from Egor Chinakhov, who netted one goal and provided two assists. The Penguins maintained a lead throughout the game, with significant contributions from key players including Sidney Crosby and Erik Karlsson. Despite the Devils' attempts to rally, including a goal from Jack Hughes, the Penguins extended their lead with a late goal from Karlsson. The win not only showcased Pittsburgh's offensive prowess but also marked the return of goalie Stuart Skinner, who made crucial saves, ensuring the team’s defensive stability. This victory positions the Penguins for a strong finish as they look ahead to the postseason, aiming for their first playoff run since 2022.