Penguins' Hallander Returns to Practice After Blood Clot

Defenseman Kris Letang also rejoins team after foot injury

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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After missing the team's last 42 games due to a blood clot in his leg, Pittsburgh Penguins forward Filip Hallander returned to practice on Tuesday. Hallander, who scored his first NHL goal in October, said the experience has given him a new perspective on hockey. Meanwhile, defenseman Kris Letang also rejoined the team after missing the last four games before the Olympic break with a fractured foot.

Why it matters

Hallander's return is a boost for the Penguins, who have dealt with several key injuries this season. His ability to play a strong two-way game and contribute offensively will be valuable as the team pushes for a playoff spot. Letang's recovery is also crucial, as he is one of the team's top defensemen.

The details

Hallander, 22, was sidelined for three months after being diagnosed with a blood clot in his leg in November. He has worked hard in the gym and on the ice to work his way back. Letang, 35, suffered a fractured foot in late January and has been progressing in his recovery, participating in full practice on Tuesday.

  • Hallander was diagnosed with a blood clot in November 2025 and was expected to miss a minimum of three months.
  • Letang was injured on Jan. 31, 2026 and was expected to miss a minimum of four weeks.

The players

Filip Hallander

A 22-year-old forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who scored his first NHL goal in October 2025 before missing the last 42 games due to a blood clot.

Kris Letang

A 35-year-old defenseman for the Pittsburgh Penguins who missed the last four games before the Olympic break with a fractured foot.

Dan Muse

The head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Bryan Rust

A forward for the Pittsburgh Penguins who played on the top line with Hallander earlier this season.

Sidney Crosby

The captain and star center for the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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What they’re saying

“It's been a long road. I think for him, he has put in a lot of work. Obviously, the situation was tough, but it is what it is. He handled everything the right way, put in a lot of work, and you get to a day like today, where he's out there with the team. I'm just really happy for him.”

— Dan Muse, Head Coach (nhl.com)

“In the start, it was tough, especially when it's something that's been a part of your life for such a long time, as hockey has been. You don't know if it's going to be the end. But after that, it's probably been the best three months. It's weird to say, especially when you find a way to get into the NHL and play a lot and start there. But you get perspective on things when stuff like that happens. When something that's so close to you almost gets away from you, you love it even more when you get the chance to do it again.”

— Filip Hallander (nhl.com)

“It feels lonely. I'm sure he was eager to get out there and be with the boys. When you go through stuff like that, it's a big accomplishment, especially for your self-confidence.”

— Kris Letang, Defenseman (nhl.com)

“He plays a good and hard north-south game and pays attention to all of the little details extremely well. He's a guy who you know what you're going to get out of him. It's going to be hard work, but he can make those little plays in tight. He can finish, too. I think he's a great player.”

— Bryan Rust, Forward (nhl.com)

What’s next

Hallander and Letang are expected to be ready for the Penguins' first game after the Olympic break on February 26 against the New Jersey Devils.

The takeaway

Hallander's return from a serious blood clot and Letang's recovery from a foot injury are important boosts for the Penguins as they look to solidify their playoff positioning in the second half of the season. The team has shown resilience in dealing with key injuries, and these players' comebacks demonstrate their commitment and the value they bring to the team.