Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman Kris Letang and forward Filip Hallander returned to full practice on Tuesday following injuries that sidelined them before the Olympic break. Letang, recovering from a fractured foot, reported feeling close to 100 percent and anticipates playing when the team resumes games on February 26. Hallander, who missed 42 games due to a blood clot, expressed renewed appreciation for the sport after his recovery.
The Pittsburgh Penguins held practice on Tuesday at UPMC Lemieux Sports Complex, marking the return of two key players from injuries as the team prepares to resume NHL action after the Olympic break.
Kris Letang, a 38-year-old defenceman, has been out since fracturing his foot, missing the Penguins' final four games before the break. The injury led to a minimum four-week absence, announced on January 31. Letang skated with teammates and described his condition as "close to 100 per cent," according to team reporter Michelle Crechiolo. He added, "we'll see how it goes," while anticipating readiness for the February 26 home game against the New Jersey Devils. Through 50 games this season, Letang has recorded three goals, 22 assists, and a plus-three rating.
Filip Hallander, a 25-year-old forward, rejoined practice as a full participant after being diagnosed with a blood clot in November, which required at least three months away from the ice. He has missed 42 consecutive games since his last appearance on November 3 in a loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs. In 13 games this season, Hallander has one goal and three assists. Head coach Dan Muse noted, “It’s been a long road,” praising Hallander's work ethic and mindset during recovery. Hallander reflected, “In the start, it was tough... you love it even more when you get the chance to do it again.” Teammate Bryan Rust highlighted Hallander's "hard north-south game" and attention to details.
Letang also commented on Hallander's return, calling it "a big accomplishment, especially for your self-confidence." The Penguins' next game is against the Devils on February 26.
