How have the Pittsburgh Penguins performed so far this NHL season?

The Pittsburgh Penguins have defied preseason projections, racing out to an 8-3-2 record through their first 11 games.

Who is the favorite for the upcoming Penguins vs. Maple Leafs game?

Despite the Leafs' struggles, they are still the betting favorites at -185 for the November 6th game, with the Penguins as tempting underdogs at +154.

Home / Sports / Penguins Defy Expectations, Maple Leafs Disappoint in Early NHL Season

Penguins Defy Expectations, Maple Leafs Disappoint in Early NHL Season

Q: What has been the main issue for the Toronto Maple Leafs this season?

The Maple Leafs have struggled defensively, giving up 3.67 goals per game (27th in the NHL) and posting a poor .872 save percentage (29th).

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Summary

Penguins off to 8-3-2 start, defying preseason projections
Maple Leafs struggle with 6-5-1 record, defensive issues
Penguins seen as tempting underdogs against favored Leafs

Penguins Defy Expectations, Maple Leafs Disappoint in Early NHL Season

As of November 4th, 2025, the NHL season has seen some unexpected developments, with the Pittsburgh Penguins and Toronto Maple Leafs heading in opposite directions.

The Penguins, who were projected to be one of the worst teams in the league this season, have defied expectations and raced out to an 8-3-2 record through their first 11 games. Despite not having the best statistical profile, the Penguins have found ways to win, relying on strong goaltending and their star players to carry them.

In contrast, the Maple Leafs have been one of the most underwhelming teams in the NHL so far. Expectations were that Toronto would take a step back after losing Mitch Marner in the offseason, but their 6-5-1 start against a relatively soft schedule has been a disappointment. The Leafs are struggling defensively, giving up 3.67 goals per game (27th in the NHL) and posting a poor .872 save percentage (29th).

Additionally, Toronto's power play has been abysmal, and they are not creating enough scoring chances at 5-on-5. These issues have overshadowed the team's strong start and have them looking vulnerable heading into their upcoming matchup with the surging Penguins.

Despite the Leafs' status as the betting favorites, the Penguins' tempting underdog odds of +154 make them an intriguing pick for the November 6th game in Ontario.

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