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Jon Cooper slams ‘dangerous’ mistake after Pontus Holmberg injury
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- Jon Cooper slams ‘dangerous’ mistake after Pontus Holmberg injury
Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper did not hold back after a dangerous incident left Pontus Holmberg injured in a crucial late-season NHL game. The coach voiced clear frustration, calling the situation avoidable and risky for both teams.
The injury occurred during a 4-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on April 6. In the third period, Holmberg absorbed an open-ice hit from Peyton Krebs before losing balance. He then crashed shoulder-first into an unlatched penalty box door, which was opened early as an official prepared to release a player.
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Holmberg remained on the ice in visible pain as play stopped with just over seven minutes left. He did not return and was later seen with his arm in a sling.
Early updates suggest a shoulder injury, and Cooper later admitted the forward's condition was "not good."
Speaking after the game, Cooper questioned how such an error could happen.
"I don't know who is working the penalty box over there, but I don't know if they should keep their job after what happened there," Cooper said. "Like, leaving the door open. That could have hurt anyone on either team. Those are just dangerous situations, so a little frustrated on my part, to be honest."
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NHL is investigating the incident after Pontus Holmberg's injury
The NHL since opened an investigation into the unlatched door, focusing on game operations and safety protocols. The timing is critical, with the playoffs approaching and every roster piece carrying added value.
Reporter Eduardo A. Encina contacted the league and reported that the NHL is reviewing the incident, quoting a spokesman saying, "The league is looking into it."
Holmberg's absence could impact Tampa Bay 's forward depth. His line with Yanni Gourde and Zemgus Girgensons has become an important unit heading into the postseason. The trio provides balance, defensive stability, and energy in tight games.
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Despite the loss, the Lightning remain among the top contenders in the Atlantic Division with a 48-23-6 record. However, this incident shifts attention to player safety and depth concerns at a crucial stage of the season.
