Kris Letang’s Health Update Adds to Penguins’ Tough Season
The Pittsburgh Penguins are set to miss the NHL playoffs for the third straight season, marking their longest drought since the early 2000s (2002–2006). As of now, the team holds a 33-36-12 record, placing them seventh in the Metropolitan Division for the 2024–25 season.
Despite a challenging season overall, veteran defenseman Kris Letang has remained a consistent presence on the ice. Appearing in 74 games, Letang has scored 9 goals and contributed 21 assists, totaling 30 points. He registered a minus-15 rating, collected 52 penalty minutes, tallied 13 power-play points, and fired 164 shots on goal. At age 37, he continues to be a vital part of the Penguins’ blue line, averaging over 23 minutes of ice time per game.
However, concern for Letang’s health has resurfaced following a recent update from the team. The Penguins announced that Letang underwent successful surgery to close a patent foramen ovale (PFO), which is a small hole in the heart. The recovery timeline is expected to be four to six weeks.
Due to this procedure, Letang will miss the remainder of the regular season. The operation was performed at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital by interventional cardiologist Dr. Conrad Smith. While the team won’t be continuing into the postseason, the timing of the surgery allows Letang to rest and potentially return in time for training camp ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.
This heart procedure adds to a history of serious medical concerns for Letang, including two strokes—one in 2014 and another in 2022. Given this context, many Penguins fans are understandably anxious about his well-being. Social media platforms have seen a wave of support, with fans expressing admiration and worry. One supporter commented, “Jesus, he’s been through so much,” while another urged him to consider retirement, stating, “Tanger… please hang it up. Your health isn’t worth it. You’ve done enough for us.”
The Penguins’ season has been hampered by a range of issues beyond Letang’s absence. Despite Sidney Crosby leading the team with an impressive 89 points and Rickard Rakell scoring a team-high 35 goals, the squad struggled with defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending, allowing 291 goals over the course of the season.
Injuries have also taken their toll. Key contributors, including rookie Rutger McGroarty and forwards Tommy Novak, Blake Lizotte, Noel Acciari, and Matt Nieto, were sidelined and are expected to miss the remainder of the season. Letang’s absence only compounds the Penguins’ struggles.
While some fans hope Letang can continue playing, others feel that prioritizing his long-term health should be the main concern. The emotional responses highlight the deep respect the hockey community holds for him, recognizing not just his contributions on the ice but his resilience off it.
As Letang recovers, the Penguins will regroup in the offseason with hopes of coming back stronger next year. Whether or not Letang returns to the lineup, his legacy with the team remains secure—and his health will continue to be a top concern for fans and the organization alike.