Even though they're still up 3-2 in their series against the New York Rangers, there will be some added pressure for the Pittsburgh Penguins to win Game 6. This comes after franchise superstar Sidney Crosby was ruled out of Friday night's match-up after suffering an upper-body injury early in Game 5.

As they aim to finish off the Rangers and advance to the second round, the Pens will have to adjust to the void that's been left by Crosby on Friday night. With that said, let's now take a look at the three players who will need to step up the most for Pittsburgh in a crucial Game 6 against New York.

Players who must step up for the Penguins in Game 6

1. Evgeni Malkin 

Despite having two assists in Game 5 against the Rangers, Evgeni Malkin will more than likely have to take on a bigger load offensively with Crosby out injured. Still one of the best scorers and playmakers in the NHL, it goes without saying that Malkin's value to the Penguins is truly unmatched.

He's a seasoned champion, a proven winner, and a mainstay that Pittsburgh has been able to rely upon for years. In what they hope will be a series-clinching win, Malkin will need to provide the Pens with some additional shots on goal, assists, and defensive stops that will keep their title hopes alive in 2022.

2. Kris Letang 

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Last game Kris Letang was highly effective for the Penguins when he was able to get off five shots on goal. He was also able to score a goal for them, but now that the Penguins have home ice and are in prime position to close out the series tonight, Letang must elevate his play on both ends of the ice. Letang is another regular for Pittsburgh whose veteran leadership and high-IQ play have been vital to their success in previous playoff runs. In their continued pursuit of another Stanley Cup win, the Pens will need a more explosive performance from Letang in Game 6.

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3. Jake Guentzel 

Jake Guentzel kept the Penguins competitive on Wednesday night with two timely goals, but unfortunately, it wasn't enough to earn them the win. With so much riding on tonight's game, Guentzel will once again have to be at his level best against this fiery and determined Rangers squad. Especially with them looking to tie up the series and force a game seven. He may not possess the elite shooting or passing abilities that Crosby does, but Guentzel has shown that he's more than capable of providing the Penguins with a boost offensively.

All-in-all, Pittsburgh will miss Sidney Crosby's presence on the ice on Friday night. However, they still possess all the depth and manpower to hold down the fort until he returns to full strength. Between Malkin, Letang, and Guentzel they've got three guys who will need to rev up their play and lead the Penguins to the second round of the playoffs. Plus it shouldn't be too much longer before Crosby is back in the line-up and up to his old tricks. In the meantime, Malkin, Letang, and Guentzel must produce for Pittsburgh as they hope to eliminate New York tonight.