What a difference one player makes, at least this has been the case in just the two games Kris Letang has played since an undisclosed ailment kept him out for several games. In the few games since returning to the ice Letang has recorded back-to-back three-point games against the Detroit Red Wings and New York Islanders.
This performance earned the 28-year-old offensive minded defensemen the NHL’s third star of the week.
Letang has made a major impact on the team, helping set the offensive zone pace and keeping a tight lock on both blue lines.
Implementing a new style of play, Letang has quickly found his mojo within Mike Sullivan’s system. “Whatever coach you have, you have to find the positives, what you can relate to,” Letang said to the press in a response to having a new coach.
Regardless, Letang has fit in well, especially with the addition of Trevor Daley who can help relieve any pressure. In his first game back Letang helped Pittsburgh come back from a 2-0 hole against the Red Wings scoring two goals and dishing out one assist. In his last game he had three assists, two ending with Sidney Crosby finding the back of the net.
Game-tying power play goal, courtesy of Kris Letang. Full replay: https://t.co/tYch8tZh4q pic.twitter.com/Ie1TdO7Zcg
— Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) January 1, 2016
This season Letang leads the team’s defensemen with 22 points, and averages 0.76 points per game this season which ranks sixth among NHL blueliners. Without Letang in the lineup this season the Penguins have recorded an abysmal 1-7-1, a stark contrast to the 18-8-3 record when he is playing.
This week’s third star will be able to flash his stick against the Chicago Blackhawks tomorrow at 7 p.m. at the Consol Energy Center.
Photo Credit: @Penguins
