Letang talks about return to hockey, son’s NHL award nomination

PITTSBURGH — Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is looking forward to returning to the ice, while his son is looking forward to possibly winning an award.

Alex Letang is nominated for the best team video in the NHL Fan Choice awards. His dad, Kris talked about the nomination during a WebEx call with the media on Thursday.

“He’s laughing. He would like to win, obviously. He’s sending all his friends little texts and videos to vote for him.”

If you’d like to vote for Alex Letang, you can do that HERE.

As far as being back on the ice, Letang is ready. Despite prior health concerns, he doesn’t see himself at extra risk of contracting COVID-19.

“Not at all. I had my fair share of questions and they have all been answered. Certainly, I can say I would be safe to play,” he said.

Letang went on to talk about the return to play, and what it will mean for the Penguins. He said that 24 was the best number and he shared the Penguins’ ideas when the discussion was happening. he did share some apprehension among players who have never played in anything but a best-of-seven series. The Penguins will play Montreal in a 5-game “play in” series when the NHL resumes.

Letang said this playoff experience will be a little bit different, despite the team’s obvious experience in Stanley Cup hockey.

“Experience is a big factor but in this case it’s different with guys starting from scratch. There’s no momentum no favorites,” he said.

Pittsburgh is one of the cities in line to potentially be a hub city. Letang said the only real advantage to that would be knowing your arena and the boards, because the team would still likely be in a hotel instead of in their homes.

As far as the impact of no fans: “It’s going to be so different. Guys will get used to it quick. They’ll be in the zone, they’ll be focused. It’ll be different but after a period or two, or a game you’ll get used to it. Shouldn’t affect us at all. You know what you’re playing for," he said.

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