Lightning's Cernak expected to play in Game 2, Point remains out

May 18, 2022 - 2:44pm

Tampa Bay Lightning center Anthony Cirelli (71) celebrates his goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs with defenseman Erik Cernak (81) during the second period in Game 6 of an NHL hockey first-round playoff series Thursday, May 12, 2022, in Tampa, Fla. (Chris O'Meara/AP)

Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Erik Cernak appears to have avoided a serious injury and should be in the lineup for Game 2 against the Florida Panthers.

Cernak was injured blocking a shot in Tuesday's Game 1 — that may have saved a goal — and was unable to finish the game. However, he was a full participant in practice Wednesday and head coach Jon Cooper said he expects Cernak to play Thursday.

Cernak was a staple on the Lightning blue line in their last two runs to the Stanley Cup. These playoffs, he has played in every game thus far, averaging 21:38 in ice-time through the first seven games — fourth among Tampa Bay's defence corps.

While the return of Cernak is good news, Cooper added that Brayden Point will remain out for Game 2. Point injured his leg during Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs and hasn't taken the ice since.

Game 2 between the Lightning and Panthers takes place Thursday at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on Sportsnet and SN NOW.

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