Penguins vs Senators: Predictions, Picks, and Odds for NHL Showdown Tonight
The Ottawa Senators aim to extend a hot streak with a home game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday, March 26, 2026. The puck drops at 7:00 p.m. ET at the Canadian Tire Centre. TV coverage is on TSN5.
Recent form and context
Ottawa has been elite over the past two months. Since January 25 the Senators are 15-3-2. That run produced the league’s second-most points in that span.
The Senators rank among the NHL’s top eight scoring teams. Their goaltending has been the major edge. Ottawa’s goals-against average is an NHL-best 2.15.
Pittsburgh enters on a slide. The Penguins were outscored 11-3 across their last two games. They also face lineup uncertainty.
Head-to-head this season
Ottawa has already beaten Pittsburgh twice this season. The results include a 4-0 shutout and a 3-2 victory. The Senators pursue a three-game regular-season sweep on Thursday.
Key players and injury notes
Brady Tkachuk has been central to Ottawa’s surge. He recorded a goal and an assist in the 3-2 win over Detroit. Tkachuk has five goals in his last 10 games and two goals this season versus Pittsburgh.
Sidney Crosby is expected to carry more offense for the Penguins. Betting markets list a 2.5 shots-on-goal line for him. Crosby recorded at least four shots in four of his last six contests.
Pittsburgh likely will be without Evgeni Malkin and Anthony Mantha. Both are among the Penguins’ five leading scorers. Their absence affects depth and scoring balance.
Betting perspective and picks
Betting analyst Eric Rosales, with 27+ years of wagering experience, favors Ottawa’s moneyline for this matchup. He predicts the Senators will win their fifth straight game. Filmogaz.com coverage lists Ottawa as the recommended pick.
Markets at publishing showed the Senators as favorites. The book odds and suggested wagers follow.
| Market | Line |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Penguins +125 | Senators -145 |
| Puck Line | Penguins +1.5 (-190) | Senators -1.5 (+160) |
| Over/Under | Over 6.5 (+100) | Under 6.5 (-120) |
Best bet and same-game parlay
Rosales’ top pick: Senators moneyline (-145). He cites Ottawa’s defense and goaltending advantage.
Suggested same-game parlay (SGP): Senators moneyline, Brady Tkachuk anytime goal, and Sidney Crosby over 2.5 shots on goal.
Trends and context for bettors
The Senators have won the moneyline in 15 of their last 20 games. That stretch returned +8.80 units and a 29% ROI for bettors following the trend.
Odds were accurate at time of publishing. Lines can change before puck drop. Not intended for use in MA.
How to watch
- Venue: Canadian Tire Centre, Ottawa, ON
- Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
- Puck drop: 7:00 p.m. ET
- TV: TSN5
This preview provides Penguins vs Senators predictions, picks, and odds context for an NHL showdown tonight. Use the information to make informed wagering decisions.
