NHL Rumors: Point Inching Closer To Return For Playoffs

The Tampa Bay Lightning may be getting one of their stars back for the third round, and just in time. Brayden Point is progressing and could return at some point in Round 3. They are going to need his services since either the Carolina Hurricanes or the New York Rangers should put up a better test for the Lightning with their defensive styles.

Point has been the best playoff producer for the Lightning over their past two Stanley Cup runs, scoring 14 goals in each of them and leading the playoffs. He is one of those players who turns it up a notch once games become even more important and the Lightning will miss his presence the longer he remains out.

The injury to Point occurred in Game 7 of Round 1 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He and the Lightning are fortunate to have a longer rest between series after needing just four games. It allows not only Point, but the entire team to heal up for another battle.

Head coach Jon Cooper stated that Point was closer to playing in Round 3 than he was in Round 2, so there hasn't been any setbacks. Cooper also mentioned a plan for when Point will resume skating and he will release that information at a later time.