Letang’s quick start negated by bad finish

PITTSBURGH — Kris Letang isn’t always the most orthodox defenseman. His positioning can be awkward, and he occasionally relies on his instincts rather than making the safer or the textbook play.

But his creativity, speed and passing ability put him in a rare class among NHL players, and those qualities were very much on display as he assisted on the Pittsburgh Penguins‘ first two goals againstPhiladelphia Flyers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals on Wednesday night.

However, Letang – stationed in front of the net – couldn’t get his stick on the Matt Carle shot-pass that set up Jakub Voracek for the game-winning goal in overtime that sealed the Flyers’ comeback from a three-goal deficit and a 4-3 victory at Consol Energy Center.

Sometimes, as the Penguins were reminded during a very disconcerting loss, is that Letang can giveth, and he can taketh away.

Only four Penguins players talked to reporters after the game, and Letang wasn’t one of them. >> Continue Reading >>