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Come Fan with UsSunday, June 21, 2026

Kris Letang makes debut Friday night

Krist Letang is ready to return to the lineup after missing the first nine games of the season.

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sport

The Pittsburgh Penguins have lived up to expectation through nine games this season and sit alone atop the Metropolitan Division. Despite a slew of injuries that have limited their starting lineup, the heavily favored group has registered a 7-2-0 record.

They will receive a boost on Friday night, as defenseman Kris Letang will make his season debut against the New York Islanders after starting the year on injured reserve due to an unidentified lower-body injury.

Since the start of the 2010 season, Letang has recorded 130 points, which is the fourth most amongst all defenseman, while his 107 assists rank first. Despite the lack of his offensive contributions, the Penguins have still managed a 3.33 goals per game average, which ranks fourth in the NHL.

Letang skated with Rob Scuderi and took reps on the first power play unit during Friday's morning skate.

In addition, backup goaltender Jeff Zatkoff will make his second appearance of the season.

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