Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman is scheduled to undergo elbow surgery on Monday, the team confirmed. The procedure is expected to keep the veteran defenseman out of NHL action until February. Despite the setback, the timeline could enable Hedman to recover in time to represent Sweden at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan.
Hedman, a key figure on the Lightning blue line and a former Norris Trophy winner, has been an integral part of Tampa Bay’s roster since being drafted second overall in 2009. His leadership and strong two-way play have helped guide the team to multiple deep playoff runs, including back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.
The 2025-26 NHL season has presented physical challenges for the 34-year-old defenseman, who has battled through elbow discomfort in recent weeks. With medical evaluation recommending surgical intervention, Hedman and the team’s medical staff opted to proceed with the procedure in hopes of ensuring a full recovery ahead of the season’s stretch run and potential Olympic participation.
According to team officials, the recovery window is projected to be approximately six to eight weeks. If rehab progresses as planned, Hedman could be available for selection by Team Sweden in time for the men’s ice hockey tournament at the Milan Games, set to begin in mid-February.
Hedman has previously expressed a strong desire to compete at the Olympics, especially following the NHL’s decision to allow players to participate in the 2026 Games. He was unable to compete in previous Olympics due to league restrictions and missed opportunities.
The Lightning will rely on other members of their defensive corps to fill Hedman’s role during his absence. While his presence on the ice will be missed, the team is hopeful that the surgery will resolve the lingering issue and allow their captain to return at full strength for the crucial part of the season.
Further updates on Hedman’s recovery and potential Olympic involvement are expected closer to his return date.
