In a season filled with twists and turns for the Tampa Bay Lightning, the team is facing another challenge with the loss of defenseman Declan Carlile due to a "lower-body" injury. Announced on Saturday, Carlile's absence is expected to last four to five weeks. If the timeline stretches to the latter, the Lightning will have to navigate the rest of the season without him, hoping for his return in time for a potential Stanley Cup Playoff run.
Carlile, a left-handed shooter, has been a steady presence for Tampa Bay, appearing in 38 games this season. With one goal and two assists, he's tallied three points and boasts a +5 rating. Averaging 14:37 of ice time, this season has marked a significant step forward for the 25-year-old Michigan native.
Since signing with the Lightning in 2022, Carlile has gradually become more integral to the team. After limited appearances in previous seasons-just one game in 2023-24 and three last year-he's skated in 42 games over his NHL career, accumulating four points with a career +8 rating and an average of 14:26 on the ice.
Known for his impactful play, Carlile's absence will surely be felt. The upcoming games will reveal how the team adjusts without him.
In response to Carlile's move to long-term injured reserve, the Lightning have called up defenseman Steven Santini from the Syracuse Crunch. Additionally, the team welcomed back Nick Paul from the injured list on Saturday.
Paul, who missed 11 games with a lower-body injury, was activated just in time for the Lightning’s matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes. It's a case of one step forward, one step back for Tampa Bay, as they continue to juggle their roster amidst these injuries.