With the Tampa Bay Lightning enjoying a day off on Monday, there was no update on the health of Erik Cernak. The defenseman suffered a lower-body injury in the team’s win against the Flyers on Saturday, and Coach Cooper had no update on his status immediately following the game.
If it’s not a season-ending injury, it’s unlikely that the team will release what’s wrong with him after today’s practice. If he will come back this season they should at least provide a timeline as to his return. Should he miss any extended time, it’s likely that Matt Dumba moves into his spot and Max Crozier or Emil Lilleberg gets recalled from Syracuse.
As you’ll see with some of the links below, the Lightning aren’t the only team that’s dealing with some health issues at this point of the season.
More Hockey News
Aaron Ekblad out at least two weeks [Sportsnet]
The annual Aaron Ekblad late season injury has arrived as the Panthers’ defenseman is out with a lower-body injury after colliding with Vlad Tarasenko in their 5-1 win over the Flames on Saturday. The Panthers will have to do some shuffling on the blue line with Ekblad out as Brandon Montour is their only right-shot defenseman on the roster right now.
Josh Norris undergoes shoulder surgery, out for the season [The Athletic]
Speaking of annual injuries, the Senators’ center is out for the third time in his career due to the injured shoulder. The team is hoping that he is back for training camp next season.
Thatcher Demko out 2-3 weeks [The Province]
Demko suffered a lower-body injury and is expected to miss a couple of weeks for the surprising Canucks. The goalie and his 24.79 GSAx is a big reason Vancouver is where they are at in the standings. With a ten-point lead over second place Edmonton, they should be able to hang onto the top spot in the Pacific during his absence.
Matt Rempe might be the last of his kind [The Slate]
Connor Bedard will likely win the the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie, but the Rangers Matt Rempe is the people’s champ for his willingness to throw hands. Alex Kirshner delves into the appeal of the 6’7″, 21-year-old rookie.
How can the NHL make the trade deadline more exciting [The Athletic]
I’m all in on loaner deals. McIndoe might think it’s a terrible idea, but I think it would be fun if the Coyotes could loan Logan Cooley out to a contending team for the right price.
A scouting report on every prospect moved at the deadline [Daily Faceoff]
Steven Ellis is a fan of Jack Thompson, praising his skating and calling him a “modern-day blueliner who can do a little bit of everything”.
Photos from the Hall of Fame Ceremony [Tampa Bay Lightning]
It looks like everyone had a fun time. Some of the guys also look like they could still skate a shift or two.
