The NHL released the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoff first-round schedule early Sunday morning with the Penguins beginning their quest for the cup against the Presidents Trophy winner New York Rangers in The Big Apple on Thursday night.
The Pens will be without defensemen Kris Letang, who is done until next season due to a concussion sustained on March 28 from a hit by Arizona Coyotes captain Shane Doan. That came days after the team officially ruled Foreward Pascal Dupuis out for the remainder of the season and playoffs due to blood clots.
The team does, however, expect defensemen Derrick Pouliot to return to the ice for the playoffs after missing the last two games due to an upper body injury. Christian Ehrhoff could also be ready for the first round after being out since late March.
Penguins first round schedule
GM 1: Thursday 4/16 – 7 p.m. @ Madison Square Garden
GM 2: Saturday 4/18 – 8 p.m. @ Madison Square Garden
GM 3: Monday 4/20 – 7 p.m. @ CONSOL Energy Center
GM 4: Wednesday 4/22 – 7 p.m. @ CONSOL Energy Center
GM 5: Friday 4/24 – TBD (If Necessary) @ Madison Square Garden
GM 6: Sunday 4/26 – TBD (If Necessary) @ CONSOL Energy Center
GM 7: Tuesday 4/28 – TBD (If Necessary) @ Madison Square Garden
After struggling down the stretch to a 3-5-2 record in their final 10 regular season games, the Penguins will have to find a way to turn it around if they want to compete.
(Photo Credit: Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
