The Tampa Bay Lightning are gearing up for Saturday’s clash with the Hurricanes, and they might have some key players back in action. Defenseman Erik Cernak, who exited last Sunday’s game against Buffalo after a tussle with Michael Kesselring, is on track to return.
Cernak missed two games with an upper-body injury but was a full participant in Friday’s practice. Assistant coach Rob Zettler is optimistic about his availability, saying Cernak "should be ready to go."
Center Nick Paul, sidelined for 11 games due to torn tendons in his left ankle from the Stadium Series game on February 1, also practiced at full speed on Friday. Zettler noted that Friday’s session was a critical test for Paul, and his status for Saturday will depend on how he responds to the workout. If Paul is ready, the Lightning will need to activate him from long-term injured reserve, potentially sending top prospect Conor Geekie back to AHL Syracuse.
Defenseman Declan Carlile, who left Thursday’s victory over Detroit with a few minutes remaining, missed Friday’s practice. Zettler described it as a "maintenance day" and said Carlile’s availability for Saturday will be determined by the team’s trainers.
Emil Lilleberg filled in for Carlile during practice, pairing with Charle-Edouard D’Astous. Lilleberg, still recovering from a facial fracture, practiced in a red no-contact jersey and isn’t expected back for another week.
Nikita Kucherov and Darren Raddysh were both given body maintenance days and did not practice. The team is managing their workload to keep them fresh for the upcoming games.
Stay tuned as the Lightning look to bolster their lineup and make a strong push against the Hurricanes.