Kris Letang out indefinitely after suffering a stroke

This morning, NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that Penguins' defenceman Kris Letang suffered a stroke earlier this week.

It's initially shocking news to hear of such a high-level athlete dealing with a cardiac issue, but unfortunately Letang does have a history. Letang suffered a stroke in 2014 as well. At the time, Letang publicized his condition of Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) in hopes of raising awareness for cardiac health, and the fact it can happen to anyone.

As Seravalli noted, Letang currently is feeling much better, not experiencing any lasting effects, and will continue to monitor his condition with the team doctors in the upcoming weeks. When Letang suffered a stroke in the 2014 season, he returned to play 8 weeks later.


GM Ron Hextall commented on Letang this morning:


Letang, being the legacy defenceman for this era of the Pittsburgh Penguins, will be a sorely missed presence for the time being. However, all our best wishes go out to Letang and his family as they prioritize his health, and hopefully leads to a speedy return.