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Letang going through tests after Rinaldo hit, game-time decision vs. ‘Hawks

Pittsburgh Penguins v Philadelphia Flyers

Pittsburgh Penguins v Philadelphia Flyers

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Quick update on Pens defenseman Kris Letang, who was forced from Tuesday night’s powder keg versus Philly after a nasty hit from Zac Rinaldo.

Letang took Wednesday morning’s optional skate ahead of tonight’s game versus Chicago, but wasn’t made available to media. Per Pittsburgh head coach Mike Johnston, Letang is “still going through tests,” presumably related to concussion protocol, and “will be a game-time decision for sure.”

The Pens have also recalled Derrick Pouliot from AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, though that could be a move related to Simon Despres, who won’t play tonight due to illness.

Letang’s status would, presumably, play a role in Rinaldo’s punishment from the league. The Department of Player Safety has already offered him an in-person hearing for the hit -- time still to be determined -- and, as we’ve seen in the past, injuries do play a role in length of suspension.