The Pittsburgh Penguins have been flourishing with the return of one key player in Sidney Crosby, but they won’t get another one back tonight. Kris Letang can’t go against the Philadelphia Flyers.
Letang hasn’t played since Oct. 18 thanks to an upper-body injury.
It’s a disappointment that he’ll sit out this rivalry match, but there’s still optimism that he’s nearing a return.
“He will not be in the lineup tonight,” Head coach Mike Sullivan said. “He’s making strides and getting closer. We’re hopeful we will get him back soon.”
Pittsburgh’s next game doesn’t come until Wednesday, so maybe he can get back in the mix by then.
Tonight’s game in Philly begins a set of four road games for the Penguins (which includes a three-game swing against the tough California teams).
The Penguins face a challenging November - nine away contests vs. five games at home - so rushing Letang into action could be counterproductive.