Penguins vs sharks The Pittsburgh Penguins are preparing for an important matchup against the San Jose Sharks in Game 19 of the 2026-27 NHL regular season. The two teams are scheduled to meet on Wednesday, November 11, at SAP Center in San Jose, California. Both clubs are looking to improve their early-season performances and build momentum as the regular season continues.
Pittsburgh enters the matchup with a 6-10-2 record, while San Jose holds an 8-11-1 record. The Penguins are coming off a disappointing 5-2 loss to the Anaheim Ducks, while the Sharks recently ended a five-game losing streak with a shootout victory over the New York Islanders.
Sidney Crosby Leads the Penguins’ Offensive Attack
One of the biggest storylines heading into the matchup is the performance of Penguins captain Sidney Crosby. The veteran forward continues to play an important role in Pittsburgh’s offense and has been productive against San Jose throughout his career.
Crosby enters the game with an active 10-game point streak against the Sharks, recording five goals and 11 assists during that stretch. His experience, leadership and offensive creativity could make a significant difference in this matchup.
Rickard Rakell and Evgeni Malkin are also important players to watch. Both forwards are expected to contribute alongside Crosby as Pittsburgh looks to generate more scoring opportunities.
Macklin Celebrini Is the Player to Watch for San Jose
The Sharks have an exciting young talent in Macklin Celebrini, who has emerged as one of the team’s most important offensive players. The 20-year-old center leads San Jose with seven goals and 21 points through 18 games.
Celebrini’s speed, playmaking ability and offensive instincts make him a major challenge for opposing defenses. Pittsburgh will need to limit his opportunities and prevent him from controlling the pace of the game.
Will Smith is another important offensive option for San Jose. With 13 points this season, he provides additional scoring support and could play a key role in the Sharks’ attack.
Erik Karlsson Could Make a Difference penguins vs sharks
Defenseman Erik Karlsson remains a major part of Pittsburgh’s offensive strategy. He leads the Penguins in scoring this season with three goals and 15 assists.
Karlsson has also been particularly effective during road games, recording 13 points in his first 10 road appearances. His ability to create scoring chances from the blue line and contribute to the power play makes him an important player to watch against his former team.
Meanwhile, Tommy Novak has also enjoyed success against San Jose, collecting 11 points in nine career games against the Sharks.
Key Storylines Heading Into Game 19 penguins vs sharks
Several important factors could determine the outcome of Wednesday’s matchup.
Penguins looking for consistency: Pittsburgh needs a stronger performance following its loss to Anaheim. Improving defensive coverage and taking advantage of scoring opportunities will be essential.
Sharks building momentum: San Jose will look to carry confidence from its recent shootout victory over the Islanders and take advantage of playing at home.
Goaltending battle: Penguins rookie goaltender Sergei Murashov is expected to start, while Yaroslav Askarov is projected to guard the net for San Jose. Both goalies could have an important impact on the result.
Special teams performance: Power-play opportunities and penalty killing could become decisive factors, particularly if the game remains close.
Penguins vs. Sharks: Game Information
- Matchup: Pittsburgh Penguins vs. San Jose Sharks
- Game: 19 of the 2026-27 NHL season
- Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2026
- Venue: SAP Center, San Jose, California
- Puck Drop: Approximately 10:00 p.m. ET
- TV: SportsNet Pittsburgh and NBC Sports California
- Radio: 105.9 The X
What to Expect From the Matchup
The Penguins vs. Sharks matchup offers an important opportunity for both teams to improve their early-season results. Pittsburgh will rely on experienced players such as Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Erik Karlsson, while San Jose will look to its young stars, particularly Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith.
Although the Penguins have struggled with consistency, their recent history against San Jose provides some encouragement. Pittsburgh has won seven of its last 10 meetings with the Sharks and has recorded four victories in its previous five visits to SAP Center.
Both teams have plenty to prove, making Game 19 an interesting matchup for NHL fans.