Lightning captain Victor Hedman opens up about mental health absence after first-round playoff exit
Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman revealed he stepped away from the team during the final stretch of the season and playoffs to focus on his mental health. The defenseman, who also missed time due to an elbow injury requiring surgery, said the decision was difficult but necessary for his well-being. Hedman expressed pride in his team and stated he feels much better following his time away.
- ▪Victor Hedman missed part of the NHL season and playoffs to address his mental health.
- ▪Hedman has spent his entire 17-year NHL career with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
- ▪He underwent elbow surgery in December and returned to play during the Olympic break for Sweden.
- ▪Hedman emphasized that taking care of his mental health was essential to being a better player and person.
- ▪He hopes his openness will encourage others in hockey to prioritize their mental well-being.
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Tampa Bay Lightning Lightning captain Victor Hedman opens up about mental health absence after first-round playoff exit Hedman played just 33 games this season after injuries and a mental health-related absence By Paulina Dedaj Fox News Published May 5, 2026 12:19pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Fox News Flash top sports headlines for May 5 Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on FoxNews.com. NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman’s absence in the final stretch of the regular season and during the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs was to address his mental health, he revealed in a statement Tuesday.
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