Tampa Bay Lightning Reveal Updates On Injured Defensemen Ahead Of Game 3

After being forced to play Game Two of their series with the Toronto Maple Leafs minus two key defenseman, the Tampa Bay Lightning's morning skate revealed some important updates on the injured Victor Hedman and Erik Cernak—two of the team's top four backliners. 

Hedman taking rushes with Nick Perbix, which is a good indicator that a return seems likely for tonight #GoBolts #TBLightning pic.twitter.com/soQmDt40nq

— Lightning Insider (@Erik_Erlendsson) April 22, 2023

Hedman took part in the Bolts' morning skate, taking rushes with his defense-mate, Nick Perbix. Head coach Jon Cooper gave a somewhat promising evaluation of Hedman's chances of suiting up for Game Three tonight. 

Jon Cooper again says Victor Hedman will be gametime decision, but will take the warmup. "Cross our fingers he'll be ready to go,"@BodogCA @RinkWideTOR

— David Alter (@dalter) April 22, 2023

The Bolts' head coach says the perennial Norris Trophy candidate will be a game-time decision, after taking warmups. "Cross our fingers he'll be ready to go," added Cooper. 

Unfortunately for Tampa, Cernak was nowhere to be seen on the ice at Amalie Arena. 

Erik Cernak did not take morning skate in TB

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 22, 2023

He, of course, was the recipient of an illegal headshot delivered by Leafs' forward Michael Bunting in Game One, for which the latter received a 3-game suspension. 

There's no word on Cernak's condition at this point, but he is obviously not in line to play in Game Three. The series is tied at a game apiece after the Leafs' 7-2 win over the Hedman and Cernak-less Lightning in Game 2. 

  Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports