The Pittsburgh Penguins currently hold a record of 33 wins, 36 losses, and 12 overtime losses for the 2024-25 NHL season, placing them 7th in the Metropolitan Division. Additionally, this marks the third consecutive year they will not be making the playoffs, representing their longest absence since the period of 2002-2006.

In this specific campaign, a standout figure is Kris Letang. In his 74 appearances, he has netted 9 goals and provided 21 assists, accumulating a total of 30 points. He recorded a minus-15 rating, accumulated 52 penalty minutes, contributed 13 power-play points, and fired 164 shots on goal. At 37 years old, Letang continues to play a pivotal role on the team, clocking in more than 23 minutes of ice time per game.

Nonetheless, a recent report regarding his health has raised concerns among Penguins fans for the star defenseman. The official account of the Pittsburgh Penguins took to X to announce that “Penguins defenseman Kris Letang underwent successful surgery to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO, a small hole in the heart). The expected recovery time is four to six weeks.”

Letang is set to miss the Penguins’ concluding regular season matches, with the NHL shifting its attention to the upcoming postseason. Furthermore, he successfully underwent a procedure to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO), a small hole in the heart that may elevate the risk of stroke. The procedure took place at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, conducted by interventional cardiologist Dr. Conrad Smith.

The Penguins have revealed that Letang is anticipated to be sidelined for four to six weeks, setting the stage for his return just in time for training camp before the 2025-26 season. This procedure further contributes to Letang’s ongoing narrative of health struggles, which includes experiencing two strokes in 2014 and 2022. The fans are also somewhat worried about his well-being.

Pittsburgh Penguins fans are sharing their concern

The Penguins endured a challenging season; however, Kris Letang still managed to make significant contributions. In response to the health update, one fan expressed, “Jesus, he’s been through so much.” Additionally, this supporter expressed their apprehension about the defenseman’s future, remarking, “I always hate seeing this for a legend. A stroke, and now heart surgery. Wish his life after hockey isn’t short-lived and he can remain healthy for the rest of his life.” In a comparable style, this supporter expressed, “Tanger… please hang it up. Your health isn’t worth it. You’ve done enough for us.”

So what’s exactly going on with the Pittsburgh Penguins? Despite Captain Sidney Crosby’s impressive performance, leading the team with 89 points, and Rickard Rakell’s standout achievement of 35 goals, the Penguins encountered difficulties stemming from inconsistent goaltending and defensive issues, which resulted in 291 goals allowed over the course of the season.

The team’s progress has been severely impacted by injuries, resulting in the absence of key players like rookie Rutger McGroarty and forwards Tommy Novak, Blake Lizotte, Noel Acciari, and Matt Nieto for the remainder of the season. And now, Letang has joined the group. Looking ahead, the team aims to regroup and return with renewed strength for the upcoming campaign.

One fan expressed their sentiments regarding Letang, saying, “So sad man i’d hate to see him retire but I think it might be the best option.” In a similar vein, this supporter expressed, “The two strokes and now this… thinking of you Tanger.” Letang plays an essential role for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Once he recovers, he will be prepared to give his all to the team once more.