NHL & Capitals News: Letang Suffers Stroke, Maroon Responds To Edwards

It has been a busy past 24 hours across the NHL, with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Tampa Bay Lightning and Washington Capitals all making headlines.

Here are all the latest news and notes from across the league.

Kris Letang Out Indefinitely After Suffering Stroke, No. 58 Makes Statement

Penguins defenseman Kris Letang is out indefinitely after suffering a stroke on Monday. He was taken to the hospital after alerting the medical staff of his symptoms, and it is not expected to be career-threatening. The 35-year-old is recovering and went to see his teammates in the locker room on Tuesday.

Letang stroke back in 2013-14, and testing revealed a small hole in his heart. Since then, he has played 543 career games. He made a statement following the news.

“I am fortunate to know my body well enough to recongize when something isn’t right,” Letang said. “While it is difficult to navigate this issue publicly, I am hopeful it can raise awareness. It is important for me that my teammates, family and the fans know that I am okay. I am optimistic that I will be back on the ice soon.”

Pat Maroon Responds To Jack Edwards Following Body-Shaming Comments

Lightning forward Pat Maroon has responded in the best way possible o comments made by Boston Bruins play-by-play announcer Jack Edwards as the Boston Bruins faced Tampa on Tuesday.

On the broadcast, Edwards commented on Maroon’s weight and eating habits.

“He’s listed at 238 pounds. That was day one of training camp. I’ve got a feeling he’s had a few more pizzas between then and now,” Edwards said.

The three-time Stanley Cup champion is making a $2,000 donation in Edwards’ name to Tampa Bay Thrives to support “those struggling with mental health, bullying and body image.” He also posted a link on Twitter and encouraged fans to donate. Captain Steven Stamkos also took to Twitter to praise his teammate and donated.

In support of those struggling with mental health, bullying and body image I am making a 2,000 donation in the name of @realjackedwards to @TampaBayThrives and I encourage @TBLightning and @NHL fans to join me. Donate here: https://t.co/ZEbWHw6Cqv

— Pat Maroon (@patmaroon) November 30, 2022

Well done Patty…. Donating now! https://t.co/4dNTFSbJwA

— Steven Stamkos (@RealStamkos91) November 30, 2022

Los Angeles Kings goaltender Cal Petersen Hits Waivers After 9-8 OT Loss To Seattle Kraken

Los Angeles netminder Cal Petersen found himself on waivers on Wednesday, and it comes after a disastrous night in goal for both the Kings and Kraken.

Petersen came into the game in relief after starter Jonathan Quick surrendered the Kraken’s first five goals of the game on just 14 shots. The 28-year-old didn’t fare any better, as he surrendered four goals on 16 shots (.750 save percentage) in the OT loss that saw former Capitals forward Andre Burakovsky strike twice.

After a strong start to his NHL career, last season saw a dip in performance for Petersen, and this year has been tough, as he has gone 9-5-3 with a .868 SV%. However, given his potential and play up until last year and so far this season, it’s hard to imagine seeing him clear.

Washington Capitals Captain Alex Ovechkin Responds To Passing Wayne Gretzky In Road Goals

There is now no guest more unwelcome on the road than Washington captain Alex Ovechkin, as he became the greatest goal scorer away from home on Tuesday with two goals against former Capitals coach Bruce Boudreau and the Vancouver Canucks.

The Great 8 is known for enjoying the time playing on the road, but doesn’t know exactly why that’s the case.

“I don’t know it’s seems like we always have fun on the road, spend time more together and I don’t know, I hink everybody enjoy it.”

Anthony Mantha added that he believes Ovechkin didn’t know about the all-time road goals record until after the game. Ovechkin also didn’t hear the “Ovi” chants breaking out in Rogers Arena, but his teammates did, and were impressed.

“Even you can hear the away crowd chanting his name. Everyone’s rooting for him and he’s not slowing down one bit. It’s fun to watch,” Darcy Kuemper said.

Overall, the 37-year-old was just happy to hit another milestone. He sits seven goals from 800, nine from passing Gordie Howe for second on the NHL’s all-time goals list and 102 from breaking Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record.

“It’s always nice when you beat the Great One. Doesn’t matter what kind of milestones it is. It’s history.”

Steve Cash To Become First Sled Hockey Player Inducted Into U.S. Hockey Hall Of Fame

Along with Ryan Miller, Jocelyn Lamoureux-Davidson, Monique Lamoureux-Morando and the late Warren Strelow, goaltender Steve Cash will become the first sled hockey player inducted into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame on Wednesday.