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Lightning Announce Victor Hedman Injury Update Before NHL Playoffs
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- Lightning Announce Victor Hedman Injury Update Before NHL Playoffs
The Tampa Bay Lightning have issued a cautious update on captain Victor Hedman just days before the playoffs. Head coach Jon Cooper confirmed the veteran defenseman has resumed skating but remains unavailable for now.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, Cooper said Hedman has started light on-ice work and is back with the group.
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"Vic's been around us," Cooper said, via reporter Gabby Shirley. "He's slowly starting to get some ice time and stuff like that and get himself, hopefully, back. We love having him around because he is our captain, and he has a wealth of experience, so he is going to be with us and on this trip."
However, Cooper stopped short of confirming a return date, noting the situation could change.
"He is going to be with us, but probably unavailable right now, and it's playoff time, so we keep those things close to the vest," Cooper said.
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The update suggests progress, but the team is still not sure about their captain's return timeline. He has not played since March 19 and is currently out due to a leave of absence for personal reasons.
Hedman has missed significant time this season and is currently on long-term injured reserve. His campaign included setbacks like elbow surgery in December and a lower-body injury during the Olympics .
Hedman has registered 17 points in 33 games this season. And currently, despite returning to team activities, he will not feature at the start of the postseason.
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Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) warms up at Scotiabank Arena.Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Tampa Bay enters the playoffs in strong form after a 50–26–6 season. Their offense, led by Nikita Kucherov 's 130 points, remained only second to Connor McDavid . Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy also delivered consistent performances throughout the year, and has a 39-15-4 record.
The Lightning will face the Montreal Canadiens in the first round. Game 1 is set for Sunday with Tampa holding home-ice advantage. The series presents a tough challenge, especially without their captain fully fit.
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Hedman's absence leaves a gap on defense, though others have stepped up. His experience remains vital as Tampa aims for another deep playoff run.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
