36-year-old defenseman makes NHL history with unbelievable performance
It seemed unlikely for some time, but is now very fitting that Penguins defenseman Kris Letang would set a new NHL record after having a rollercoaster few seasons.
It began in the early goings of the 2022-2023 season when he was struck down by a stroke, which was his second during his pro hockey career. Many felt that he would never return to the game after being dubbed as out indefinitely. Of course, he defied all those odds and came back to the lineup 12 days later against the Buffalo Sabres after being medically cleared.
Fast forward to Wednesday night when the Penguins were taking on the New York Islanders. Letang put up a 6-point night in a 7-0 win for the Pens, which is already incredible enough. But then, news broke from Elliotte Friedman that Letang had actually set a record in the NHL for most points (5 assists) in one period by a defenseman. Letang potted 5 of his 6 assists in the second period.
He also became the second player in league history to achieve 5 assists in one frame since the late Dale Hawerchuck did it on March 6th, 1984.
The 36-year-old has played his entire career with the Penguins after being drafted in 2005, in the third round, 62nd overall. He has been instrumental in their last three cup runs, has played 1,037 games, scored 159 goals with 555 assists for 714 points and as a +96.
He has been a mainstay on the Pens' defense corps and is expected to retire as a Penguin when he decides to do so. It seems nothing is slowing him down and he continues to be a dangerous offensive threat even late into his 30's.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 28 | 417 ANSWERS 36-year-old defenseman makes NHL history with unbelievable performance Will Kris Letang enter the Hall of Fame when he's first eligible? | ||
| Yes - He will go down as a Pens legend | 266 | 63.8 % |
| No - It will take a few chances | 151 | 36.2 % |
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