Hedman taking temporary leave of absence from Lightning

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is taking a temporary leave of absence from the team for personal reasons, the club announced Wednesday.

The Lightning said no further details would be shared about the status of the seven-time All-Star, who hasn't played since March 19.

Hedman missed 22 games earlier this season due to an elbow issue and was limited by a lower-body injury while representing Sweden at the Olympics in February.

Various issues have restricted Hedman to 33 appearances this season. He's logged 17 points and is averaging a career-low 18:52 per contest. The 35-year-old is under contract with a full no-movement clause through 2029 at an $8 million annual cap hit.

The Lightning are two points back of the Atlantic Division lead with one game in hand on the first-place Buffalo Sabres.