The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to host the Washington Capitals at PPG Paints Arena on February 2025, right after returning from the 4 Nations Face-Off break. The game, with puck drop scheduled for 3 PM, promises to be more than just another regular season match; it is poised to be "A Hockey Night in Pittsburgh" as the team plans to honor the life and legacy of legendary Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Lange.
Doors for the event will open at 1:30 PM, giving fans ample time to arrive and participate in the festivities. A pregame ceremony is slated to begin precisely at 3 PM, so attendees are encouraged to take their seats early to pay tribute to Lange, who became the voice of some of the most memorable moments in Penguins history.
Fans are invited to show their support for Lange by bringing signs with their favorite phrases from the beloved broadcaster. For those without prepared signage, there will be opportunities to create one in the DICK’S Sporting Goods Hallway of Champions before the game. A special display honoring Lange will also be set up at the Highmark Stage for fans to enjoy.
The matchup has significant implications for both teams. The Penguins come to the game with a record of 23 wins, 25 losses, and 9 overtime losses, and they have been showing improvement lately. They have gained points in six of their last nine encounters against the Capitals, holding a record of 5-3-1 during this stretch. Over the past few seasons, the Penguins have been particularly successful against Washington; since the 2015-16 season, no other team has defeated the Capitals more often than Pittsburgh, with 23 victories against them.
Conversely, the Capitals enter the game with a solid record of 36 wins, 11 losses, and 8 overtime losses. Their performance this season has been impressive, positioning them as strong contenders. The Penguins' performance at home has also been noteworthy, with a record of 9 wins, 4 losses, and 2 overtime losses over their last 15 home games dating back to late November.
This matchup is more than just players on the ice; it’s also about the fans and the history they share with the franchise. Lange’s impact on the team and the city has left indelible marks. His catchphrases and legendary calls have become part of the fabric of Pittsburgh’s sports culture, with many fans eager to keep his memory alive through the game’s events.
For those unable to attend, the game will be broadcast live, offering fans multiple ways to stay connected. It will be available on SportsNet Pittsburgh and ESPN+. Fans can also listen to the action on 105.9 the X and via the Penguins app, ensuring everyone has access to this special encounter.
This game against the Capitals holds the potential for excitement, with the Penguins hoping to leverage their recent successes against their rivals. Fans are eagerly anticipating how this historic rivalry will play out, especially as Pittsburgh aims to build on its impressive record against Washington, which includes points gained in 17 of the last 26 matchups, boasting a record of 15-9-2. With the stage set for this significant event, anticipation builds, and fans are sure to enjoy every moment of the occasion.
Whether celebrating Lange’s legacy or supporting their team, the Penguins and their fans will create moments to cherish this upcoming evening. Don’t miss out; make your way to PPG Paints Arena or tune in to catch the action live. It’s more than just hockey – it’s about honoring tradition, celebrating community, and enjoying the thrill of the sport we all love.