The 2025-26 NHL regular season begins Oct. 7. Leading up to the season opener, NHL.com is identifying six things to watch for each team. Today, the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Last season: 34-36-12, seventh in the Metropolitan Division; missed Stanley Cup Playoffs

Coach: Dan Muse (first season)

Biggest challenge

Mixing the old with the new. Muse, 43, will be a head coach for the first time in the NHL after replacing Mike Sullivan on June 4. The Penguins continue to be led by forwards Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin , and defenseman Kris Letang , and defenseman Erik Karlsson and forwards Bryan Rust and Rickard Rakell are also well-established. The future is just as important as the present in Pittsburgh. Forwards Rutger McGroarty , 21, and Ville Koivunen , 22, should land pro

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