Penguins Must Reduce Role for Top Defender
If the Pittsburgh Penguins want the best out of their top defenseman, they'll want to shelter his time.
PITTSBURGH – There is no doubt that Kris Letang has had an incredible career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, but heading into the 2024-25 season, it might be time for him to see a reduced role. It's not a demotion by any means, but it might be in the Penguins’ best interest to protect their asset for the final four years of his contract.
Letang recently turned 37, and while he may be the fittest player on the Penguins roster, Father Time remains undefeated. At some point, whether it's near or far in the future, Letang won’t be able to perform at the top of his game.
Some of that decline was seen in the 2023-24 season. Sure, Letang played all 82 games, but he was likely playing with multiple injuries. The Penguins announced he underwent surgery for a fractured finger, but Kyle Dubas and Mike Sullivan spoke about Letang's warrior-like mentality to play the entire season.
Not that a fractured finger isn’t a pain, but two prominent voices in the Penguins organization made it seem like there was something (or multiple things) bigger bothering him.
Even if Letang returns for the 2024-25 season fully healthy, there should be some real consideration to bump him down the lineup. Already taking on second power play duties, the path has started to be paved for a lesser role.
If the Penguins decide to bump Letang down a line at 5-on-5, they already have a face that can take over as the top-line defender. Erik Karlsson could easily step into that role, especially if paired with Marcus Pettersson.
Karlsson and Pettersson played a ton of time together on the Penguins' second pairing, while Pettersson saw a few promotions to the top unit. Karlsson and Pettersson have what it takes to play on a top line together and open the door for Letang to take a back seat.
The Penguins also spent a lot of time trying to find the right defensive formula. Letang had a revolving door of partners on the top line. Giving him the bump to the second line could make certain decisions more comfortable for the Penguins.
P.O. Joseph had a great run with Letang down the stretch of the season, but do the Penguins view him as a true top-line defender? Possibly not; making the second line might be the better option.
Letang will likely wear a Penguins uniform until he’s 40 years old. The Penguins would like him to be as productive as possible for that long. Starting the process of a smaller role needs to happen sooner rather than later.
Make sure you bookmark Inside the Penguins for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
- Follow Inside the Penguins on Twitter: @InsidePenguins