Lightnings’ Anthony Cirelli, Erik Cernak Out With Injuries

The Tampa Bay Lightning are a bit bruised up in their contest against the Columbus Blue Jackets this evening. Before the puck dropped, the Lightning announced that forward Anthony Cirelli (lower-body) and defenseman Erik Černák (upper-body) are absent with injuries. Each player is considered day-to-day.

Tampa Bay is also without forward Yanni Gourde, although it was expected. Gourde is only a few days removed from returning from offseason hip surgery, so tonight was a scheduled “planned maintenance”, according to the Bolts.

Cirelli’s offense has already been missed. Through the second period, the Lightning have scored only one goal on 22 shots. Once viewed as a potential trade candidate due…