Letang returns to Penguins' lineup after 8-game absence

The Pittsburgh Penguins will receive a big boost Monday against the Calgary Flames.

Head coach Mike Sullivan announced defenseman Kris Letang will return to the lineup after missing the last eight games with a lower-body injury, according to NHL.com's Wes Crosby.

Letang will be a welcome addition as the Pens continue to play without captain Sidney Crosby, who underwent surgery to repair a core muscle injury and was given a six-week recovery timeline on Nov. 14. Pittsburgh is also without forward Nick Bjugstad and right-handed D-man Justin Schultz.

Rookie defenseman John Marino has been one of the team's unsung heroes this season, logging nearly 22 minutes per game and tallying six points during Letang's absence.

Injuries have plagued Letang throughout his career, but he's been one of the league's most productive blue-liners when healthy. The 32-year-old has 12 points in 15 games this season.