Overview
- Victor Hedman, in a statement released Tuesday, said he stepped away to focus on his mental health and missed the final 22 games including all seven in the first-round loss to Montreal.
- He last played March 19, the team announced a personal leave on March 25, and he skated with the Lightning during the playoffs but did not return to game action.
- Hedman said he has strong support from family, teammates, the organization and his therapist, reported he is in a much better place, and urged others to reach out for help.
- General manager Julien BriseBois praised Hedman’s candor and said he expects the captain to be on the team next season.
- The 35-year-old played only 33 games this season after December elbow surgery and other setbacks, and Tampa Bay’s year ended Sunday in a Game 7 defeat to the Canadiens.