Penguins' 2024-25 travel schedule sparks outrage: Team set to log least miles

The Pittsburgh Penguins' unpopularity is set to rise as fans learn that the team will travel a mere 31,700 miles in 2024-25, the fewest of all 32 NHL teams.

For years, the Penguins have faced fan scrutiny, partly due to their frequent appearances in outdoor games and national broadcasts, driven by their successes and star player Sidney Crosby. This trend of high visibility has often irked fans outside Pittsburgh, who feel the Penguins are given an unfair advantage.

While this schedule might fuel the ongoing debate about league favoritism, it's worth noting that Pittsburgh's central location relative to Eastern Conference teams may contribute to their travel ease. According to Google Maps, the Penguins' closest rivals include:

This proximity allows the Penguins to engage in multiple home-and-home series without long-haul flights. In contrast, teams like the Dallas Stars, who will play games in Finland, and the Florida Panthers, the league's southernmost team, face considerably longer travel schedules.

Despite the advantage of fewer miles, the Penguins will still endure extensive road trips and back-to-back games, similar to other teams. However, with more time spent at home, the expectations for the Penguins are high. Anything short of a playoff berth would be seen as a letdown.

As the season unfolds, will this reduced travel distance give the Penguins the edge they need to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a strong playoff position?

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if this scheduling benefit translates into on-ice success.

Source: The Hockey News
Penguins Set to Travel the Least in 2024-25