Victor Hedman Headed for Lower-Body Surgery

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is one tough cookie as he's been playing through a lower-body injury that's getting so bad, he's heading for surgery this upcoming offseason.

Hedman hasn't looked himself at times and now we know why. The injury occurred during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where Hedman went awkwardly into the boards, appearing to either hurt his hip or his knee. Hedman sat out over this past weekend and won't see much ice until game one of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. He plans on playing and this will certainly be something to watch. If he's not 100% and his production falters because of this injury, the Lightning could be in some trouble. Hedman's a huge part of their program and the team needs all they can get out of him.

Big save by Merzlikins as Hedman goes down over a diving Lehtonen. Gets off the ice under duress with assistance. #TBLightning #CBJ pic.twitter.com/aa5YAi1wcY
— Alison (@AlisonL) March 31, 2021

The 30-year-old is having another fine season and is in the discussion for the Norris trophy once again. He ranks third amongst NHL blue-liners with 45 points in 54 games. He's been a Norris finalist the past four seasons and won the award back in 2017-18. Hedman added to his trophy case last season with a Conn Smythe Trophy as MVP of the playoffs.

Lightning fans will be sitting on the edge of their seats, hoping Hedman is able to play through this injury and produce for round one.