Pens Lose Paul Martin After Second Period

Credit: Jamie Sabau, NHLI – Getty Images

When the Pittsburgh Penguins started the third period in Carolina Thursday night, they played that final period without comeback defenseman Paul Martin.

Martin left the game after the second intermission due to an apparent lower-body injury, but further detail on the issue is still to come.

This would come as a blow to the Penguins, but they have a good depth within their organization to replace Martin should he be sidelined for any upcoming contests.

If he is, look for Simon Despres and Robert Bortuzzo to see most of the action, but also keep an eye out for prospect Joseph Morrow.

Morrow was called up earlier this year, but was almost immediately sent down after not appearing in any games for the team.

We’ll find out Martin’s status Saturday when the Pens take on the Eastern Conference leading Montreal Canadiens in Montreal.