Hedman missed the final 15 games of the regular season and did not participate in the playoffs. He played his last game on March 19 against the Vancouver Canucks.

This season, he recorded 17 points, including 1 goal and 16 assists, over 33 games. He expressed gratitude towards his therapist for aiding him during this journey.

Hedman, a pivotal player for the Lightning throughout his 17 NHL seasons, won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2020. He helped lead the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup titles in 2020 and 2021.

He stated, “It was not an easy decision, but it was the right one.” His commitment to mental health reflects a growing recognition of its significance within sports.

Hedman hopes that sharing his experience will inspire others facing similar challenges. He believes that being a leader means doing what is best for both himself and his team.

This situation raises questions about how teams and leagues address mental health issues. The NHL has made strides in this area, but more work remains.

No timeline has been shared regarding when Hedman might return to play.

Сообщение Victor Hedman Takes Leave from Lightning for Mental Health появились сначала на justrealnews.

The 2026 World Men’s Curling Championship is set to take place from March 27 to April 4 in Ogden, Utah, featuring a competitive lineup of 13 teams. This event marks a significant moment in the curling calendar, as teams from around the globe vie for the prestigious title.

Currently, Team Sweden, skipped by Niklas Edin, leads the pack with an impressive record of 10 wins and only 2 losses. Following closely are Team Canada, skipped by Matt Dunstone, and Team Scotland, led by Ross Whyte, both boasting 9 wins and 2 losses. The championship format includes a round-robin stage, which will determine the six teams that advance to the playoffs.

As the competition heats up, Team Switzerland, Team United States, and Team Italy are also in contention, each with 8 wins. Meanwhile, Team China has managed 5 wins, while Team Norway struggles with a record of 0 wins and 12 losses, highlighting the competitive nature of this championship.

The stakes are high, as the top two teams will receive byes to the semifinals, emphasizing the importance of every match in the round-robin phase. With only a few games left, the pressure is mounting for all teams to secure their playoff spots.

Historically, Team Canada is aiming to reclaim gold, having last won the championship in 2017. The team is determined to build on their strong performance this year and return to the top of the podium.

As the championship approaches, fans and teams alike are eagerly anticipating the outcomes of the remaining matches. The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, with curling enthusiasts from around the world tuning in to support their teams.

Official statements from the teams indicate a mix of confidence and determination as they prepare for the final rounds. Team Dunstone expressed their commitment to bringing home the gold, while Team Edin remains focused on maintaining their lead.

Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final playoff matchups, but the curling community is buzzing with anticipation as the championship nears its conclusion.

Сообщение World curling championships: Breaking: Set for 2026 in Ogden, Utah появились сначала на justrealnews.