Pittsburgh Penguins star defenseman Kris Letang suffered a stroke back in 2014. He missed two months of play, and at the same time, it was discovered that Letang had a small hole in his heart.
Since returning from the stroke, Letang has played in 543 regular season games and 69 playoff games and won two Stanley Cups. Now, Letang will yet again be sidelined indefinitely after suffering another stroke on Monday.
It’s Letang’s second stroke since 2014, but luckily, the Penguins don’t believe it’s career-threatening.
“Kris reported symptoms to the training staff on Monday and was immediately taken to the hospital for testing,” general manager Ron Hextall said. “The test results were shocking to hear, but we are grateful that Kris is doing well. We are thankful to the medical staff and the physicians at UMPC. He is a warrior on the ice, but first and foremost, he is a son, father, husband and friend. His health is our number one priority.”
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With all clarity, Penguins stated that this stroke was less severe than the one in 2014. Letang will now undergo tests over the upcoming week. After that, his timeline for recovery will be revealed.
“I am fortunate to know my body well enough to recognize when something isn’t right,” said Letang. “While it is difficult to navigate this issue publicly, I am hopeful it can raise awareness. It is important for me that my teammates, family and the fans know that I am okay. I am optimistic that I will be back on the ice soon.”
Letang isn’t the guy to give up, and he will definitely want to return to the ice as soon as possible. Well, apparently, he already tried. According to Elliotte Friedman, Letang wanted to play just a day after his stroke on Monday.
”This will be zero surprise to anyone who knows the defenceman, but Letang apparently wanted to play Tuesday against Carolina — only to be told that wasn’t going to happen under any circumstances,” Friedman wrote in his ”32 Thoughts.”
Get well soon, Kris!
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