Penguins risk missing playoffs despite notable improvements

The Pittsburgh Penguins are at risk of missing the playoffs for the third straight year, despite improvements in key areas. Their goal differential is currently minus-54, the second worst in the NHL, impacting their playoff chances. This season, the Penguins have shown better performance in protecting leads. They have only lost one game in regulation after leading through two periods, a significant improvement from previous seasons where they struggled to maintain leads. Additionally, the Penguins' power play has improved under new assistant coach David Quinn. They currently rank ninth in the NHL with a 24.2% conversion rate, a notable increase from last season's 15.3%.