When the Tampa Bay Lightning lined up last night to take the opening face-off against the Ottawa Senators, a familiar face was missing. Victor Hedman, who usually lines up with Erik Cernak, wasn’t on the ice, nor was he on the bench. Instead it was Ian Cole who was paired up with Cernak.
Hedman, who did participate in the morning skate, was scratched just before the game started. Following the morning practice, Coach Jon Cooper had mentioned that it was possible the former Norris Trophy winner would miss the game:
Jon Cooper on the status of Victor Hedman: “He'll be a game time decision but definitely a little bit more sore than we anticipated so there is a chance he is going to have to sit this one out”
— Gabby Shirley (@Gabby_Shirley_) November 1, 2022
Hedman was shaken up in the game against the San Jose Sharks on Saturday.