Today’s NHL Matchups: Projected Lineups and Starting Goalies

Pittsburgh Penguin © Instagram / penguins

Here’s a rundown of the projected lineups, starting goalies, and injury news for some of the NHL games happening today, January 4th, 2025:

Eastern Conference Matchups

• Pittsburgh Penguins (17-17-5) vs. Florida Panthers (23-14-2): The Penguins look to get back on track after a recent slump, while the Panthers aim to bounce back from a loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Defenseman Owen Pickering is expected to return for the Penguins after missing games with a concussion.
• Ottawa Senators (19-16-2) vs. St. Louis Blues (18-17-4): The Senators will look to Anton Forsberg in net after Leevi Merilainen’s performance yesterday. Defenseman Justin Faulk is a game-time decision for the Blues due to an upper-body injury.
• Montreal Canadiens (17-17-3) vs. Chicago Blackhawks (12-24-2): The Canadiens will be looking to newcomer Kirby Dach to make a positive impact in his NHL debut. Forward David Savard is a game-time decision for Montreal. The Blackhawks will have youngster Connor Bedard centering their top line.

Western Conference Matchups

• Anaheim Ducks (16-17-4) vs. Edmonton Oilers (22-12-3): The Ducks will decide between Lukas Dostal and John Gibson in net after a close win against the Winnipeg Jets. The Oilers will keep Zach Hyman on the third line despite Connor Brown moving up to the top line.

Saturday’s Matchup

• New York Rangers (17-19-1) vs. Washington Capitals (25-10-3): The Rangers will be without starting goalie Igor Shesterkin due to an upper-body injury. Forward Artemi Panarin and Chris Kreider are expected to play after missing practice for maintenance purposes.

This is just a sample of today’s NHL slate. Be sure to check out the full schedule and all the latest news for your favorite teams!

 By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer