Any fan of the NHL should know who Kris Letang is. The Pittsburgh defenseman has only known black and gold his whole career, when the Penguins drafted him back in 2005 out of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
The 2015-2016 regular season was Letang’s best of his career, statistically. He set highs in goals scored (16), assists (51) and points (67). Perhaps that’s because Letang, who has always been one of the top defenders in the NHL, played in 71 games this season, the most since the 2010-2011 season when he played all 82. Expect Letang to see a lot of icetime this series; he’s averaging 28:47 minutes through the playoffs.
Name: Kris Letang
Number/Position: #58 / Defender
Born: April 24, 1987 (29)
Birthplace: Montreal, QC, Canada
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 201
Shoots: Right
Drafted: 62nd overall, 2005 (Pittsburgh)
Assets
Is a silky smooth skater with tremendous lateral movement and acceleration. Can pinch in effectively, or roam around like a fourth forward. Owns a lot of creativity and goal-scorer’s hands. Can hit, as well. Racks up points.
Flaws
Injuries are a major factor here. Is a little undersized for a blueline position in the NHL, so he struggles on occasion against bigger forwards. Is not a natural when quarterbacking a power play.
Career Potential
Excellent. mobile big-minute defenseman, when healthy.
(Assets, Flaws and Career Potential via The Hockey News player page)
Hero Chart
Team Possession Chart
As many of you know, Fear the Fin is an independent site run by Sharks fans for Sharks fans. Help keep Fear the Fin independent by contributing to our