TAMPA — Following a tough playoff run, Lightning GM Julien BriseBois provided a detailed look at the team’s challenges during a post-season review.
The most significant injuries included team captain Victor Hedman, who fractured his right foot in Game 4 against the Panthers, Yanni Gourde, who broke a finger in Game 1, and Anthony Cirelli, who suffered a grade 2 knee sprain in the playoff opener.
“It’s tough, but you have to somehow play your way through it,” said coach Jon Cooper. “Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it happen.”
The team faced not just the injuries from the playoff games, but also serious complications leading up to the series.
Forward Oliver Bjorkstrand underwent surgery for a serious thigh injury suffered during an April 11 game against the Red Wings. BriseBois commended Dr. Sean Lannon, the orthopedic surgeon who helped Bjorkstrand that night. “If they hadn’t moved quickly, the situation could have been a lot worse,” he noted.
BriseBois also mentioned that Nikita Kucherov, who was nominated for the Hart Trophy, battled through a hand injury that diminished his performance against the Panthers. “I didn’t want to sit out,” Kucherov explained. “The trainers did their best to keep me playing.”
Other notable injuries included Luke Glendening, who had an AC joint separation, Nick Paul, who struggled with a wrist tear, Erik Cernak with a knee contusion, and Brandon Hagel, who suffered a concussion in Game 4.
“These injuries pile up,” said BriseBois, adding that he believes the Panthers dealt with their own challenges. “Injuries are just part of the playoff grind.”
Hedman, still in a protective boot, anticipates a swift recovery, joking, “They say Viking blood heals faster, so let’s hope!”
Vasilevskiy’s Frustration
Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy expressed his disappointment during his exit interview, candidly voicing his frustrations regarding the team’s third straight early playoff exit.
“Time might help, I guess. We had high hopes, but they just weren’t met. I wish I had more answers,” he admitted.
Vasilevskiy highlighted the disappointing 1-9 record at home for playoff games, lamenting, “Fans deserve a lot better than this.”
He reflected on past playoff successes, noting how fortune didn’t favor them this time and how things went “sideways” right from the start.
“We probably had the worst luck ever in a playoff series. But credit to Florida, they earned their breaks,” he concluded.
Cirelli’s Milestone
Cirelli has been named a finalist for the prestigious Frank J. Selke Trophy, recognized for his defensive skills.
Competing with Aleksander Barkov and Sam Reinhart, this marks Cirelli’s first time as a top-three finalist. With new personal records in goals, assists, and points, he’s had a standout season.
“He’s matched up against the top players every night, and it’s great to see him rewarded for his hard work,” praised teammate Brayden Point.
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Conclusion
In a challenging season filled with injuries and setbacks, the Lightning showed resilience and determination. The players’ commitment to pushing through adversity reflects their strong team spirit. With off-season recovery and recharging, fans have hopeful anticipation for next season.
FAQs
What major injuries did the Lightning face this season?
The Lightning dealt with several key injuries, notably Victor Hedman’s fractured foot, Yanni Gourde’s broken finger, and Anthony Cirelli’s sprained knee.
What is the Frank J. Selke Trophy?
The Selke Trophy is awarded annually to the forward who best excels in defensive aspects of the game. Anthony Cirelli was named a finalist this year.
How did Andrei Vasilevskiy feel about the playoff exit?
Vasilevskiy expressed frustration during his exit interview, noting unmet expectations and a disappointing home playoff record.
