Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is out indefinitely after suffering another stroke on Monday, the team announced, eight years after he missed more than two months with a stroke.
“Kris reported symptoms to the training staff on Monday and was immediately taken to the hospital for testing,” Penguins general manager Ron Hextall said in a statement. “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.”
Letang, 35, is not suffering lasting effects, and the circumstances are not expected to be “career-threatening” for the defenseman, the Penguins said.
Letang previously missed two months of action in 2014 after he suffered a stroke and it was determined that he was born with a condition where the wall of his heart had a small hole.
“I am fortunate to know my body well enough to recognize when something isn’t right,” Letang said Wednesday. “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 has been a defenseman for the Penguins since the 2006-07 season and has won three Stanley Cups with the team, though he missed the 2016-17 playoffs with an injury. A six-time All-Star, he has compiled 662 career points (145 goals and 517 assists) in 962 games.