The highly anticipated preseason matchup between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings has been delayed due to travel issues. Originally scheduled to start at 7:00 p.m. ET, the game will now commence at 8:30 p.m. ET at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
The delay is attributed to the Penguins' travel complications from Pittsburgh to Detroit. It remains unclear whether the team has arrived in Detroit or if the delay is a result of ongoing travel difficulties.
Team Lineups and Preseason Performance
The Penguins, who have lost both of their preseason games so far to the Buffalo Sabres, will field a mix of NHL veterans and roster hopefuls. Players such as Lars Eller, Drew O'Connor, and Ryan Graves are set to take on the Red Wings. Goalie Tristan Jarry and forwards Rutger McGroarty and Boko Imama are listed on the Penguins' roster for both nights of their back-to-back preseason games.
On the other hand, the Detroit Red Wings, who are 2-0 in the preseason with wins against the Chicago Blackhawks, will feature stars like Patrick Kane, Alex DeBrincat, and Dylan Larkin. This game marks the second half of a back-to-back situation for the Red Wings.
Additional Context and Recent Preseason Challenges
This delay is not an isolated incident; several preseason games across the NHL have been affected by travel issues and the impact of Hurricane Helene. The Penguins themselves are also participating in the NHL's annual Kraft Hockeyville game, with most of their NHL roster traveling to Elliot Lake, Ontario, to face the Ottawa Senators.
Doors at Little Caesars Arena will open at 5:30 p.m. ET to accommodate the adjusted start time, ensuring fans have ample time to prepare for the delayed game.
