Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brayden Point is doubtful to play in Game 1 against the Florida Panthers, but will be re-assessed as day-to-day after, head coach Jon Cooper told the media on Monday.
Point sustained a lower-body injury after losing an edge and falling awkwardly into the boards late in the first period of Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He returned to the bench to start the second period, but was only able to take one shift before returning to the bench in visible pain.
He stayed on the bench for the remainder of the game but did not take another shift.
Point, drafted 79th overall by the Lightning in the 2014 NHL Draft, has been a key piece for the two-time Stanley Cup-winning team. In 74 career playoff games, Point has scored 38 goals and recorded a total of 77 points. In the first round against the Leafs, Point scored two goals and two assists in seven games played.
The Lightning are set to play their state rival, the Panthers, in the second round. You can catch Game 1 on Tuesday on Sportsnet and Sportsnet NOW at 7 p.m ET / 4 p.m PT.
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