The Tampa Bay Lightning will commence the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs without captain Victor Hedman. This news, while anticipated, leaves questions about his potential return. Head coach Jon Cooper addressed the media on Saturday, confirming that Hedman will not participate in the initial game of the first-round series against the Montreal Canadiens.
Victor Hedman’s Status and Recovery
Cooper provided insights into Hedman’s condition, stating that the defenseman has been skating to regain his fitness after an extended absence. Although he is not in the lineup for the first game, Hedman is expected to travel with the Lightning when they head to Montreal next week.
Timeline for Return Unclear
While Hedman’s return to play remains uncertain, Cooper emphasized the importance of his presence in the locker room. “He’s slowly starting to get some ice time and stuff like that,” said Cooper. The coach noted that having Hedman around boosts team morale, especially during the playoffs.
Hedman’s Season Overview
This season has been challenging for Hedman. He has struggled with injuries, limiting his participation to just 33 games. His performance includes:
- 1 Goal
- 16 Assists
- 17 Total Points
- Minus-1 Plus/Minus Rating
- Average Ice Time: 19 minutes per game
Hedman last played on March 19 against the Vancouver Canucks, after which he took a leave of absence due to an illness. The Lightning will face the Canadiens in Game 1, scheduled for Sunday at 5:45 p.m. ET, and the team will need to adjust without their captain as they strive for victory.
