"Kris underwent an MRI in February that revealed a herniated disc in his neck," General Manager Jim Rutherford said. "Our neurosurgeons examined him and recommended conservative treatment in an attempt to correct the condition without surgery. Kris had been making progress and was hopeful of returning for the playoffs until about a week ago, when the progress plateaued. He underwent another MRI, and, at that point it was determined that surgery was needed."

Letang has not played since February 21, missing the Penguins' last 20 games. The 29-year-old native of Montreal contributed five goals and 29 assists for 34 points in 41 games this season.

In 11 NHL seasons, all with the Penguins, Letang has registered 87 goals and 299 assists for 386 points in 603 games. Last season he set personal highs with 16 goals, 51 assists and 67 points while earning NHL Second-Team NHL All-Star honors as the Penguins won the Stanley Cup.

Letang is a two-time Stanley Cup champion and also was an NHL Second Team All-Star in 2013. He played in the NHL All-Star Game in 2011, 2012 and 2016.