We finally know the specific injury Ben Bishop was dealing with through the 2015 Stanley Cup Final. Unfortunately for the Tampa Bay Lightning, word came not that long after the Chicago Blackhawks won it all.
Bishop revealed that he played through a groin tear, which he suffered in the second period of Game 2, according to Joe Smith of the Tampa Bay Times.
Bishop said he tore his groin on a Richards shot in second period of Game 2. Won't require surgery, just rest this offseason.
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) June 16, 2015
The 28-year-old really impressed with strong play against a great scoring attack, but getting the specifics of the issue only makes it more impressive.
Still, the big goalie isn’t puffing out his chest, as he’s instead digesting that tough loss. Bishop lamented that “it easily could have been us on the ice celebrating” but instead they must move on despite “such a close series.”
It’s hard to argue with that argument, either. Patrick Kane’s third-period 2-0 tally was the only time in this entire series where either team had more than a one-goal edge.
Bishop’s courageous play made a big difference in keeping things so close, yet he must heal up and move on to next season with a heavy heart nonetheless.
Update: We also know what was ailing Tyler Johnson, as he apparently broke his wrist early in the Stanley Cup Final.
#TBLightning Tyler Johnson said he played with a broken right wrist. Suffered early in this series.
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) June 16, 2015
No need for excuses, but perhaps the Lightning can say “we’ll be even better if we can stay healthy and get another shot.”