Flyers' division rival rocked by Lundqvist news

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Future Hall of Fame goalie Henrik Lundqvist signed with the Capitals two months ago in search of a Stanley Cup, one accomplishment that has eluded him his entire career. Now it seems, however, that goal is the furthest thing from his mind.

On Thursday, the 15-year veteran shared some shocking news about his playing future. In a statement, Lundqvist said that he will not play for Washington this season because of a heart condition.

The statement says, in part: “It breaks my heart (literally) to share this news: I will not be joining the Capitals this upcoming season. After many weeks of tests and conversations with specialists around the country, it’s been determined that a heart condition will prevent me from taking the ice. Together, we have decided that the risk of playing before remedying my condition is too high. So I will spend the coming months figuring out the best course of action.”

Lundqvist shared a video message as well, through the team.

He did not mention in the statement what the heart condition is, how long he has been dealing with it, or whether there is a chance he could return to play beyond this season. He will turn 39 next March.

Lundqvist signed a one-year, $1.5 million deal with the Capitals in the hopes of helping them win their second title in four years. Washington has won the Metropolitan Division in each of the past five seasons, but since winning it all in 2018, has been eliminated in the first round the last two years.

The five-time All-Star and Vezina Trophy winner ranks sixth all-time in career wins with 459.

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