Just ahead of their scheduled noon skate, the Penguins delivered some news that could cast a shadow over their recent hot streak: Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang were both absent from practice-and not by choice.
Let’s start with Malkin. The veteran center has been battling through a lingering shoulder issue that cost him a month earlier this season.
He made his return on January 8th, but the signs haven’t all been encouraging since. After Sunday’s game, he appeared to be in visible discomfort, and while he didn’t miss any practices this week and suited up last night, the team clearly saw enough to give him a breather today.
Malkin still managed to notch an assist and logged nearly 17 minutes in Pittsburgh’s 6-2 win over Chicago, but his body language suggested he wasn’t operating at full strength.
As for Letang, he’s no stranger to managing injuries either. He missed a pair of games last week before returning to the lineup, and like Malkin, he played in the last two contests.
Letang saw over 21 minutes of ice time in the win against the Blackhawks, which makes today’s absence a bit concerning. Whether it’s precautionary or something more remains to be seen.
The Penguins have promised an update tomorrow, which coincides with their next game-a marquee matchup at home against the Rangers. With the team riding a five-game winning streak, momentum is on their side, but the schedule isn’t doing them any favors. After tomorrow, they’re looking at three more games-on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday-before the Olympic break gives everyone a much-needed breather.
The big question now: will Malkin and Letang be available to keep that streak alive? With the team finally clicking and climbing the standings, the health of two of their most seasoned leaders could be the difference between sustaining this push or stumbling into the break.