Story perspectives

Lightning Captain Hedman Out Until February After Surgery

12/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Victor Hedman, defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning, will have elbow surgery on Monday, sidelining him until early February 2024.
The 34-year-old captain injured his elbow during a game against the Montreal Canadiens, following a previous absence of 12 games due to another injury.
Hedman aims to return for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, where he is on Team Sweden's preliminary roster.
Despite his injury, the Lightning lead the Atlantic Division with an 18-11-2 record.
Hedman has contributed 12 assists in 18 games this season, highlighting his significance to the team.

History

Historical Context

The NHL expanded from six to twelve teams in 1967, marking the end of the Original Six era and increasing competition. This expansion included teams like the Philadelphia Flyers and St. Louis Blues, who reached the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season. The league's growth has led to heightened physical demands on players, exemplified by Victor Hedman's recent elbow surgery amid ongoing health management challenges.

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Story summary

Victor Hedman, defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning, will have elbow surgery on Monday, sidelining him until early February 2024.
The 34-year-old captain injured his elbow during a game against the Montreal Canadiens, following a previous absence of 12 games due to another injury.
Hedman aims to return for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan, where he is on Team Sweden's preliminary roster.
Despite his injury, the Lightning lead the Atlantic Division with an 18-11-2 record.
Hedman has contributed 12 assists in 18 games this season, highlighting his significance to the team.

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