Mid Season Report: Pens Battling with Devils, Canes

The Pittsburgh Penguins fulfilled most of their lofty expectations in the first half of the season. Sporting a shiny 17-7-1  record with 23 games to go, by all accounts everyone has performed according to plan.  However, a big test is on the horizon as the Penguins enter the 2nd half without star defenseman Kris Letang.

Letang was injured late in the Penguins game against Vancouver yesterday. He collided with Canucks' defenseman Shea Weber and appeared to twist his left knee as he fell awkwardly into the corner boards.  As he limped off the ice under his own power, it was believed he had sustained a minor knee injury- However, it was later reported that Letang suffered a concussion on the play, as his head struck the end boards.  Letang's history of concussions leads GM Fargas and Pens' medical staff to err on the side of caution.

"Kris has reported some dizzy spells and sensitivity to light.  He's pretty banged up right now, and we expect him to miss several weeks as he recovers.  We need him 100% for the playoffs, and we will not rush him back", said GM Fargas.

Asked if the Penguins were likely to make some moves before the trade deadline, Fargas quipped "Unlikely. I hate buying in to rental players, giving up tangible assets for one month of a player that may or may not fit in."

The Penguins certainly have depth on the blueline in the meantime, with veterans Francois Beauchemin, Willie Mitchell and Chris Phillips all expected to receive a boost in playing time. Ian Cole and young Andrej Sustr are also likely to pick up some minutes in wake of Letang's loss.

"Now is the time for other players to grab their opportunity. Kris Letang didn't start out as an all-star, he worked hard and made a name for himself when he was given an opportunity. Now it's someone else's turn to be that guy for us. We've got a deep team here in Pittsburgh and I expect us to continue to fight for the division title and beyond", said Fargas.

The Penguins get back to work later this week against the Minnesota Wild.

-AP