Penguins’ defenseman Kris Letang has undergone successful surgery to close a patent foramen ovale, or small hole in his heart.
The procedure was performed at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital by interventional cardiologist Dr. Conrad Smith. The expected recovery time is four-to-six weeks.
It’s thought the defect may have been a contributing factor to the two strokes Letang has suffered, the first in 2014 and the second in 2022.
The 37-year-old defenseman, who’s displayed an abundance of courage throughout his career, finished the season with nine goals and 30 points in 74 games while averaging a robust 23:52 of ice time.
Prayers and best wishes for a speedy recovery, Tanger.
Simply (Sidney) the Best
For the sixth straight season, Sidney Crosby was voted the Most Complete Player in the annual NHLPA Poll. Pretty much affirming what we already know.
In addition, he topped the list of smartest players and was named the player most others would pick if they needed to win a faceoff (how’s that for a category?).
Sid ranked fourth among best overall forwards and fifth among best playmakers.
Congrats, Sid!
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Rick & The Other Rick
I don’t want to sound harsh or unsympathetic, but it might be time for Letang to consider stepping away from hockey and officially retiring. The heart is nothing to take lightly, and after experiencing two strokes already, the risks just feel too great. He’s still a young guy with a family, and at the end of the day, his long-term health and well-being are what truly matter. Wishing him all the best in his recovery.
Hey Mike,
You didn't come off as harsh or unsympathetic at all, but rather well-thought, considerate and empathetic. With the Pens likely entering a decline over the next season or so, you wonder what an accomplished veteran like Letang has left to play for other than pride and the love of competition.
I've purposefully avoided being too critical of Tanger and Geno this season. Obviously, they're aging out and, to be kind, have seen better days. No one, not even the greats, outlast Father Time. (Except maybe Sid.)
I actually thought Tanger would age fairly well due to his superb conditioning. In fact, I was initially the least worried about him among our core three. But there's no question his play slipped a notch this season. In particular, he seems to have struggled of late. While I'm sure a lack of anything resembling legit on-ice help played a part, you wonder how much his heart condition factored in.
Rick
Rick
It’s kind of funny—this almost feels like a Jack Johnson situation, hear me out. When the Pens signed Johnson, people (myself included) went nuts over the length of the deal. And honestly, I feel the same way about the Malkin/Letang situation. I didn’t have a problem with the Penguins bringing them back, but I really think it should’ve been on short-term deals. I guess what I’m getting at is that I’m a little bitter they wouldn’t agree to something like a two-year contract—that’s something I could’ve lived with.