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Banged-up Bolts recall Condra

Brad Richards, Erik Condra

Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Erik Condra (22) carries the puck around Detroit Red Wings center Brad Richards (17) during the second period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)

AP

A rash of injuries at forward has forced Tampa Bay to recall veteran Erik Condra from AHL Syracuse, the club announced on Monday.

“What I like about Erik is he’s a pro,” Syracuse head coach Benoit Groulx said, per BoltsProspects. “Every day he’s one of our best players on the ice. Whether it’s a game or practice, he is showing the way. I can’t say enough about him.

Signed to a three-year, $3.75 million deal on the opening day of free agency in 2015, Condra was a disappointment last season, with just 11 points in 54 games, and appeared to be in a battle for a roster spot throughout the preseason.

Just prior to the start of the campaign, the Bolts waived the 30-year-old.

A veteran of over 350 NHL contests, Condra has fared well in the AHL this year, scoring three goals and nine points in 13 games. And this recall could be a huge opportunity for him.

As mentioned above, the Bolts are dealing with major health concerns right now. Captain Steve Stamkos is out at least four months following knee surgery, while Jonathan Drouin -- who only recently returned from an upper-body injury -- took a shot to the head against the Flyers on Saturday.

Brian Boyle missed the Philly game entirely due to his upper-body injury, while veteran Bolts beat writer Erik Erlendsson notes that Cedric Paquette has taken a series of big hits lately, too.