The Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators are set to face off tonight, December 18, 2025, at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa at 7:00 PM EST. Here’s a look at the projected lineups and what to expect from this Eastern Conference matchup.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Penguins (14-9-9) are currently struggling, having lost their last six games. Coach Dan Muse is looking for a way to turn things around, emphasizing the need to focus on their own game. Despite the team's struggles, some players are performing well. Sidney Crosby is leading the team with 35 points (19 goals, 16 assists). Erik Karlsson has been a key contributor from the blue line with 22 assists. Bryan Rust has also been a consistent scorer.

Here’s a possible look at their projected lineup:

• Forwards:
  • Sidney Crosby
  • Evgeni Malkin
  • Bryan Rust
  • Jake Guentzel
  • Reilly Smith
  • Rickard Rakell
  • Tommy Novak
  • Drew O’Connor
• Defense:
  • Kris Letang
  • Erik Karlsson
  • Marcus Pettersson
  • Ryan Graves
  • Chad Ruhwedel
  • P.O Joseph
• Goaltenders:
  • Stuart Skinner
  • Arturs Silovs

Skinner has a record of 11-9-4 with a 2.93 goals-against average. Silovs has a 4-4-6 record.

Ottawa Senators

The Senators (15-13-4) are aiming to build momentum after a comeback win against Winnipeg. Tim Stützle leads the team with 33 points (15 goals, 17 assists). Jake Sanderson has been a steady presence with 19 assists. Linus Ullmark is expected to start in goal.

Here’s a possible look at their projected lineup:

• Forwards:
  • Brady Tkachuk
  • Tim Stützle
  • Claude Giroux
  • Drake Batherson
  • Ridly Greig
  • Dylan Cozens
  • Mathieu Joseph
  • Parker Kelly
• Defense:
  • Thomas Chabot
  • Jake Sanderson
  • Artem Zub
  • Travis Hamonic
  • Tyler Kleven
  • Erik Brannstrom
• Goaltenders:
  • Linus Ullmark
  • Leevi Meriläinen

Ullmark has a 12-8-4 record with a 3.00 goals-against average. Meriläinen has a 3-5-0 record.

Keys to the Game

• Penguins: Need to break their losing streak and improve their defensive play. Sidney Crosby and Erik Karlsson need to continue their strong offensive contributions.
• Senators: Aim to capitalize on the Penguins' struggles and build momentum. Tim Stützle and Jake Sanderson need to lead the offense. Linus Ullmark needs to be solid in goal.

The Senators are favored to win, with Ottawa having a 63% chance of winning.