It was announced on Monday that Pittsburgh Penguins defenceman, Kris Letang, will be replacing Alex Ovechkin as the Metropolitan Division captain at the All-Star Game in St.Louis on Jan.25.
Ovechkin was originally voted in to be the Metro captain, but on Dec. 27, he announced that he will not be taking part in this year's ASG to rest up in order to get ready for the second half of the season and the playoffs. This is the second season in a row that Ovechkin has opted out of participating in the All-Star weekend festivities.
Originally, Letang wasn't even supposed to be going to the ASG. At first, Jake Guentzel was supposed to be representing the Penguins, but just a couple weeks ago his season came to an end when he collided into the boards after scoring a goal and injuring his shoulder. So, unfortunately, Guentzel had no choice but to miss the game while he rehabs from shoulder surgery, causing Letang to replace him.
This is the sixth time that Letang has been named to an All-Star Game, he surpasses Paul Coffey for most appearances by a Penguins defenceman.
In 37 games this season, the 32-year-old has 10 goals and 28 points.
Joining Letang on the Metro all-stars will be his teammate, Tristan Jarry, who is replacing Joonas Korpisalo. Jarry leads all NHL goalies in goals against average (2.08), is tied for first in save percentage (.932), and he is also tied for first in shutouts (3).
In 2016, the NHL decided to make the All-Star Game a 3-on-3 tournament, instead of just playing one full game. The Metro Division has gone on to win two of the tournaments so far. With Letang leading the way, could we see another Metropolitan Division victory?
-
