All signs point to Victor Hedman being able to play in the next Tampa Bay Lightning game.
That’s not an official stance, mind you; instead, it’s more a matter of observation and maybe a little math.
With Nikita Nesterov suspended, you’d think the Bolts would keep Slater Koekkoek up, especially if Hedman is a toss-up. Instead, the Lightning sent the young blueliner back to the AHL on Sunday.
Such a move leaves the Lightning with six defensemen ... including Hedman, as the Tampa Bay Times’ Joe Smith notes:
With Koekkoek reassigned, and Nesterov still having one game left on suspension, that leaves six defensemen (including Hedman) for Tuesday
— Joe Smith (@JoeSmithNHL) October 18, 2015
The next week stands as a challenge for the 4-2-0 Lightning. They play four games on the road, all against teams from the daunting Central Division.
Having their big Swede back would be ideal, but do note that it isn’t guaranteed.