It remains to be seen if Kris Letang will get suspended for his hit on Marcus Johansson ... and if he does, for how long.
(You can read initial reactions and some analysis about the specifics of the check vs. the one that got Brooks Orpik suspended here.)
There are a few things we do know already.
For one thing, the NHL’s Department of Player Safety is reportedly looking into it.
Department of Player Safety is reviewing the Letang hit on Johansson to see if it reaches the level for potential supplemental discipline.
— Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) May 3, 2016
Another factor that could help Letang avoid a suspension or limit the duration of supplemental discipline: Marcus Johansson returned during the second period.
In fact, Johansson delivered some hits on Letang.
Kris Letang is being hit by everybody. Receive a knee behind the head from #capitals Niklas Backstrom.
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) May 3, 2016
There have been some nasty moments in Game 3, and more might be coming. The Penguins lead 2-0 with a few minutes remaining in the middle frame.