Letang left Monday’s practice with what was described as a nagging lower-body injury. Letang did not take part in Tuesday’s optional morning skate and is officially listed as a game-time decision. If Letang can’t play, look for Juuso Riikola to draw back into the lineup.

Heinen has been a healthy scratch for the last two games, but will draw back in on Thursday. Heinen has no points while averaging 12:47 TOI/GM in his first four games. He will replace Anders Bjork in the lineup and skate with David Krejci and Jake DeBrusk.

Jarry backed up Casey DeSmith last week, but Matt Murray returned to the bench on Saturday so there’s no reason for the Penguins to carry three goaltenders. The 23-year-old netminder has yet to make an appearance this season, but was 9-5-0 with a 3.05 GAA and .901 SV% in 16 AHL games last year.

The other Sebastian Aho had four points (1G /3A) in 22 games with the Islanders last season but will start this year in the AHL. Aho was beat out by Devon Toews during training camp but will likely be their first D call-up when needed.

Mantha is coming off of his best season as a pro, scoring 24 goals with 24 assists (48 points) in 80 games. The 23-year-old, former first-round pick has 30-30 potential and is a key part of the Red Wings’ future and rebuild. Mantha is locked into a top-6 spot in Detroit and graded out as the No.31 RW in the NHL—meaning he is a low-end first-liner/high-end second-liner as he enters his third NHL season.

Rust has become a valuable middle-6 winger for the Penguins, scoring 13 goals with 25 assists (38 points) in 69 games this past season. Rust occasionally sees time on a line with Evgeni Malkin but is equally effective in a checking-line role. He grades out as the No.52 ranked RW in hockey according to Corsica Player Ratings.