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Penguins' Kris Letang: Notches assist

Letang continues to roll with one goal and three assists in his six games back from an upper-body issue. The elite defenseman also registered four shots, three hits and four blocks in Game 1 while logging 28:38 of ice time, including 3:39 with the man advantage. If the Penguins are going to even the series up in Game 2 on Friday, they will probably need Letang to once again write his name on the scoresheet.

Penguins' Kris Letang: Getting on track for playoffs

He played 25:52, including 5:11 on the power play and 2:08 shorthanded. Letang has one more game to get back up to speed heading into the postseason.

Penguins' Kris Letang: Will return Thursday

Letang will ultimately miss just four games because of an upper-body issue, but he'll return to the fold for a couple of tune-up games prior to the playoffs. The Penguins still technically need a win to secure a playoff berth, so he will suit up to help the cause. Letang will be paired with Olli Maatta and should reassume his duties on the power play, looking to add to his 56 points through 63 games.

Penguins' Kris Letang: Game-time call Thursday

Letang could be on the verge of returning to the Penguins' lineup following a four-game stint on the shelf. If the dynamic blueliner doesn't get clearance to play versus Detroit, he figures to be a near lock for Saturday's clash with the Rangers in order to get a final tuneup before the playoffs start. Once back to 100 percent, the Montreal native should continue logging over 25 minutes of ice time per game.

Penguins' Kris Letang: Non-contact practice participant

Letang would still need to graduate to full contact before being considered for the lineup, but his return to practice on a non-contact basis is certainly a major step in the right direction. It seems more likely than not that Letang's return may be dated for Game 1 of the playoffs at the earliest.