Victor Hedman says personal leave was to address mental health
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman revealed he stepped away from the final weeks of the season to focus on his mental health, missing the last 22 games including the playoffs.
- Hedman did not specify the details of his mental health struggles but emphasized the importance of self-care to be the best player, teammate, husband, and father.
- The defenseman also dealt with an elbow injury requiring surgery earlier in the season and missed Olympic play due to a separate injury.
- Hedman credited support from teammates and friends, including former captain Steven Stamkos and Ottawa goalie Linus Ullmark, who also addressed mental health challenges.
- Hedman, a longtime Lightning player and two-time Stanley Cup champion, expressed hope that his openness encourages others in hockey to prioritize their mental health.
