The Tampa Bay Lightning can count on captain Victor Hedman being back in the lineup for the 2026‑27 season opener. The 35‑year‑old defenseman openly acknowledged struggling midway through the previous campaign, coping with both physical ailments and mental‑health challenges that led him to temporarily step away from the team.
Hedman told NHL.com that his issue wasn’t low mood but performance anxiety—a tightness in his chest that appeared on game days. “It locks you up,” he said. “A mistake would normally roll off my shoulders, but I couldn’t shake it, and I wasn’t feeling physically at my best.”
He appeared in only 33 games, tallying 17 points. Although a return for the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs seemed possible, Tampa Bay fell to the Montreal Canadiens in a seven‑game first‑round series, ending that hope.
This season offers Hedman the opportunity to show that the difficult period is behind him and that he can perform at peak level. In the same NHL.com interview, he said he feels considerably better now. While he may not be instantaneously at top speed, he is eager to return to the ice.
Hedman added, “I just want to feel healthy and have my body in the shape I desire.” He continued, “Being on the ice daily, working out in the gym, and feeling good makes the mental side easier because I know I can perform at my fullest. I expect it will take a few games to regain my rhythm after such a long break, but I am refreshed, hungry, and highly motivated to play my best hockey.”
What a Fresh, Healthy Hedman Means for Lightning
Most importantly, the Lightning regain their leader. Hedman wears the ‘C’ for a reason, and his presence consistently lifts the team. His time away can also be viewed as responsible leadership—he set an example by prioritizing mental and physical well‑being. Seeking help when needed is vital, and hopefully his choice inspires others to do the same.
Naturally, there is excitement about what he will contribute on the ice. Hedman is a future Hall of Famer who earned Norris Trophy consideration for ten straight seasons prior to 2025‑26, winning in 2017‑18 and finishing as a finalist in six consecutive years. Even as recently as 2024‑25, he remained a top‑five vote‑getter.
Since the 2021‑22 season, Hedman has posted at least 66 points and reached double‑digit goals in three separate seasons, underscoring his offensive impact. Even with the addition of defenseman John Carlson, he will be crucial in replacing lost scoring depth. Darren Raddysh and Nick Paul have moved to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but a healthy Hedman can more than fill that void.
Hedman has returned, determined to demonstrate his capabilities after a period away, arriving fresh and motivated. It would not be surprising if he puts up one of his strongest seasons, even at age 36.
For mental‑health support, resources are available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) website and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) site.
If you or someone you know is in crisis or struggling, confidential, free help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Call or text 988
- Chat at 988lifeline.org
- TTY users can use their preferred relay service or dial 711, then 988
Note: The 988 line routes callers to the nearest crisis center based on their area code.
