The Pittsburgh Penguins have recalled defenseman Simon Despres from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton of the American Hockey League, it was announced by executive vice president and general manager Ray Shero.

The Penguins also announced that they have placed defenseman Kris Letang on injured reserve with a lower-body injury.

Despres, 21, has appeared in 24 regular-season games this season for Pittsburgh, notching two goals, five assists and seven points while posting a plus-10 rating that places second among NHL rookies.

The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Despres has collected assists in each of his last two games with Pittsburgh. Despres has also been a plus or even player in 20 of his last 21 games (+14 during stretch).