Kris Letang injury update: Penguins ‘hope it’s not long-term’

The Pittsburgh Penguins gave an injury update for star defenseman Kris Letang that leaves more questions than answers. 

Kris Letang of the Pittsburgh Penguins has suffered just about every injury a hockey player can suffer. He has significant concussion issues which have haunted him throughout his career. Letang even suffered a stroke back in 2014. The Penguins defenseman has missed the past four games and last played on Feb. 21. Pittsburgh has provided an injury update for him, but it doesn’t sound too optimistic.

It sounds like the Penguins aren’t sure when he could return. This suggests maybe his absence is due to his concussion issues. Another concussion for Letang would be yet another setback. He has had no fewer than four concussions during his career (and most likely more fans don’t know about).

Hopefully this isn’t related to Letang’s stroke. He’s been symptom free since returning, but sadly, those issues can lie dormant and strike later in life. Considering the vague timetable for Letang’s return, one can’t rule it out.

The Penguins need him if they’re going to defend their Stanley Cup. One could argue Letang is Pittsburgh’s most irreplaceable player. If Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin get injured, the other steps in. In fact, the stats suggest both players increase their productivity while the other is out, though an increase of playing time is likely the largest reason for it.

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Even if sensational rookie goaltender Matt Murray suffers an injury, Marc-Andre Fleury has a lot of experience. But the Penguins defense relies on Letang eating a lot of minutes during all situations. Few teams have what it takes to replace someone of his caliber. Justin Schultz replaced him efficiently on the power play, but the Penguins defense is much worse off without him.