Victor Hedman, the captain of the Tampa Bay Lightning, has revealed that he took a personal leave from the team to focus on his mental health. In a series of statements following his absence, which lasted for 22 games, Hedman thanked his therapist and shared the challenges he faced during this period. The star defenseman emphasized that prioritizing his mental well-being was a difficult but necessary decision, reflecting on the impact it had on his performance and personal life. His courageous pause has resonated within the NHL community, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness among athletes.