Lightning without Victor Hedman against Oilers
The Tampa Bay Lightning were without their captain Saturday, as Victor Hedman was out against the Edmonton Oilers due to illness. Hedman exited Thursday’s game against the Vancouver Canucks after the first period and did not return, logging just 4:44 of ice time. Following the 6–2 win, head coach Jon Cooper said the veteran defenseman was “not feeling well,” adding he would provide an update the following day.
On Saturday, Jon Cooper confirmed Hedman was still dealing with the illness, prompting the Lightning to once again adjust their blue line. With the captain unavailable, Emil Lilleberg returned to the lineup. Hedman’s absence is the latest in what has been a season-long challenge for the Lightning who have battled injuries up and down the roster.
The 35-year-old has already missed significant time this year following elbow surgery, appearing in just 32 games. Despite the constant lineup shuffling, the Lightning have managed to stay steady on the back end. Lilleberg returned to the lineup for the first time since suffering a facial fracture after being hit by a puck in practice in Minnesota, skating with a full cage.
Hedman has contributed a goal and 16 assists in limited action this season. The Lightning defeated the Oilers 6–2.