Letang, Niskanen very close

Wednesday, 13 February 2013 12:41

Written by Shelly Anderson

You have to read between the lines a bit, but it seems that there is a decent chance that Kris Letang and/or Matt Niskanen will return from injury tonight when the Penguins play Ottawa at Consol Energy center.

The two injured defensemen participated in the morning skate a day after taking part in a fairly rigorous practice. Afterward, both said that they feel good and called it a "coach's decision" when they play. Coach Dan Bylsma called their status game-time decisions.

Letang, who is believed to have a leg or groin injury, said the reason he sat out three games (he played in one after he was hurt) was to be 100 percent, and it appears he is there.

Niskanen, who has an ankle injury, said that "today was really good ... we'll see for today and here on out." He did note that while he feels good skating and in practice, "playing in a game is a whole other story."

"It's a decision that we'll talk about, and it will start this afternoon," Niskanen said.

In case anyone is wondering. Bylsma has said that when Letang and Niskanen are ready, they will be in the lineup regardless of how well some of the less experienced defensemen have been playing.