NHL Insider Sounds the Alarm for One Reason Despite the Penguins' Hot Start

With their 4-1 win over Minnesota Thursday night, the Penguins improved to 8-2-2 for the season, extended their point streak to eight straight games, and took over first place in the overall NHL standings.

The night did not start all that smoothly for Pittsburgh, but goaltender Tristan Jarry provided his usual steadying influence between the pipes with several important saves.

The defense did its part, as well, sacrificing their bodies to block shots, including Parker Wotherspoon's fearless denial of a Kirill Kaprizov one-timer on the penalty kill.

Up against the league's best power play at 31.8%, the Penguins' penalty kill was perfect, nullifying all four of Minnesota's chances. On the flip side, Pittsburgh needed but one power play of its own to make a difference.

Rookie Ben Kindel, promoted to the top unit following the Rickard Rakell injury, scored another highlight-reel goal, a product of his hockey IQ, work ethic, and skill.

Kindel said it's a special experience sharing the ice with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, but he's remained focused on playing his own hockey.

It's an approach that has paid dividends, turning him into one of the league's most impressive young stories in quick time.

Not everyone in the hockey world is completely on board with the Penguins quite yet. NHL insider Matt Vensel pointed out that, despite leading the NHL in points, a look under the hood at Pittsburgh's defensive metrics shows warning signs.

He warned that if Jarry and backup Arturs Silovs lose steam, the Penguins could be in trouble.

For now, though, the mix of youthful energy and veteran leadership appears to be working in Pittsburgh. Behind Jarry's fourth straight win and a 5-1-0 record, the Penguins sit atop the league for the first time since Dec. 28, 2016.

The test will be whether they can stay there once the early-season adrenaline wears off.