Letang has again had a rough season with injuries and left the game late in the first period after colliding near the net and falling into the boards. He tried to return but could last more than one very quick shift before he disappeared down the runway. You could tell it wasn't good from his reaction when he went down.
Without Letang in the Penguins were down a defenceman and in some respects that showed through tiredness and the Red Wings just completely overworking the Penguins. Letang really helps control the transition from the defence to offence so with him out expect to see some changes to the game plan. We can also expect the likes of Warsofsky to be given increased ice time in his absence.
Up front Crosby is currently experiencing a dry spell in front of goal. He is still assisting and getting points but he is missing that scoring touch that he excelled so well with before 2017 began. Hopefully this is just a system of the current poor spell the Penguins are having but he could do with some help upfront with his linemates contributing more.
The Penguins powerplay has been a point of consternation for a while with very poor consistency and a lack of possession at times kills the ability to strike. The powerplay seems to be performing better under Schultz lately but there is still an issue about shot selection. Often the pass will be taken over a good shot and that needs to stop.
With Murray back the Pens might be able to get back to something more normal under Sullivan but with Letang and Dumoulin now both missing it will be hard. The Capitals next. Fun.
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