Jon Cooper, head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning, will miss two games due to the passing of his father, Robert. The tragic event occurred earlier this week, prompting Cooper to return to Vancouver to be with family. During his absence, assistant coach Rob Zettler will take over coaching duties.
Upcoming Games and Coaching Changes
Cooper will be sidelined for the Lightning’s match against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday and their game against the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday. Zettler expressed his support for Cooper, emphasizing the importance of family during this challenging time.
- Date of Toronto Maple Leafs Game: Wednesday, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Acting Head Coach: Rob Zettler
- Cooper’s Expected Return: Saturday against the Buffalo Sabres
Team Updates
The Lightning will see the return of key players for Wednesday’s game. Forward Brayden Point and defensemen Charle-Edouard D’Astous and Emil Lilleberg will be back in the lineup. Point previously missed the Olympics due to injury, and center Anthony Cirelli is hopeful for a Saturday return despite his upper body ailment.
- Brayden Point: Returning from injury
- Charle-Edouard D’Astous: Returning from injury
- Emil Lilleberg: Returning from injury
- Anthony Cirelli: Out for now, potential return on Saturday
- Nick Paul: Currently on injured reserve
Lightning’s Performance Overview
The Tampa Bay Lightning currently holds a record of 37-14-4 and leads the Atlantic Division, six points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings. Before the Olympic break, the team performed exceptionally well, achieving a 19-1-1 record over their last 21 games.
Zettler showed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt during Cooper’s absence, recalling how players have stepped up in previous difficult situations. The NHL returns from the Olympic break on Wednesday, featuring eight games. Team USA recently clinched the gold medal by defeating Canada 2-1 in overtime.
Forward Jake Guentzel, who represented Team USA in the Olympics, expressed sadness for Cooper’s loss and acknowledged the need for the team to rally together in his absence.
