Penguins' Letang out indefinitely after having stroke

Pittsburgh Penguins star defenseman Kris Letang suffered a stroke Monday and is out indefinitely, the team announced Wednesday.

Letang isn't experiencing any lasting effects of the stroke. He was taken to the hospital Monday after reporting symptoms and will continue to undergo testing this week. His condition isn't believed to be career-threatening.

"I am fortunate to know my body well enough to recognize when something isn't right," Letang said in a press release. "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."

Penguins general manager Ron Hextall said the team is "grateful that Kris is doing well."

"He is a warrior on the ice, but first and foremost, he is a son, father, husband, and friend," Hextall said. "His health is our No. 1 priority."

He added Wednesday: "I'm shocked at how well he's doing emotionally and how well he seems to be taking it. This is much less severe than what happened eight years ago. There's a lot of comfort in that."

Letang missed over two months in 2014 due to a stroke.

"After the game last night, I informed the players of Kris' circumstance," Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan said Wednesday. "He was with me when I did. It was important for Kris to be there because his teammates got to see him in good spirits and that he's doing well."

Letang played 21 games with the Penguins this season, tallying 12 points.

Copyright (C) 2022 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.