Victor Hedman reveals why he left Lightning before Canadiens playoff games
NHL defenseman Victor Hedman revealed that he took a leave of absence from the Tampa Bay Lightning due to performance anxiety and physical injuries. He emphasized the importance of mental health in professional sports after struggling to maintain his performance levels.
Why it matters
It contributes to the growing conversation regarding mental health and burnout among elite professional athletes.
Victor Hedman’s decision to walk away from the Tampa Bay Lightning late in the 2025-26 season has received a clearer explanation during the NHL offseason. The veteran defenseman recently spoke publicly about the physical issues and performance anxiety that kept him out, including Tampa Bay’s first-round Stanley Cup Playoffs series versus the Montreal Canadiens. His remarks also brought up the issue of mental health in pro hockey.Victor Hedman is leaving the Tampa Bay Lightning, saying he needs to focus on his mental and physical health following a difficult stretch. The captain last played March 19, 2026, when he departed a 6-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks after one period.
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