Stamkos' Chances at the Olympics & Sergachev Injury Updates
Also, Hedman's leadership paying dividens to rookies and more.
Welcome to the THW Tampa Bay Lightning Substack newsletter, with all the latest from our team of Lightning writers.
In today’s edition, we talk about the possibility of Steven Stamkos finally going to the Olympics, Sergachev’s injury update, Victor Hedman’s leadership benefits to the rookies, and more.
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Time to Bolt Audio Report: Sergachev Undergoes Surgery, Out Indefinitely
February 9, 2024 by Harrison Smajovits (Premium THW Substack content)
Welcome to this edition of the Time to Bolts Audio Report…
In this edition, we talk about what the Lightning might do after Mikhail Sergachev’s injury and surgery. The Lightning have had a slow return from the All-Star Break. Nikita Kucherov continues his push for the Art Ross and Hart Trophies. We also talk about some of the upcoming matchups in the gauntlet of a slate they have ahead.
Will Steven Stamkos Get His Shot at the Olympics?
February 9, 2024 by Harrison Smajovits
NHL players will return to the Winter Olympics, beginning with the 2026 Games in Milan, Italy. They are also confirmed to participate in the 2030 Winter Olympics as well. If anyone is excited, it should be Lightning captain Steven Stamkos. The Olympics have evaded him his whole career, but perhaps he might finally get the chance to play while he’s still lacing up his skates.
Lightning’s Sergachev Has Leg Surgery, Out Indefinitely
February 8, 2024 by Jim Bay
Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Mikhail Sergachev underwent surgery in New York to stabilize tibia and fibula fractures in his left leg, the club announced Thursday. He has no timetable for recovery at the moment and will soon return to Tampa to begin his rehab. Playing for the first time since Dec. 19, he came down awkwardly on his left leg after colliding with New York Rangers forward Alexis Lafreniere in the second period of the Rangers’ 3-1 win. Sergachev had to be taken off the ice on a stretcher, and the team later ruled him out for the rest of the game.
Tampa Bay Lightning’s Most Important Players for Playoff Push
February 9, 2024 by Harrison Smajovits
Welcome back to the Lightning Round! Here, we pit writer against writer to debate the latest on the Tampa Bay Lightning. Harrison Smajovits and Nick Haydon drop the proverbial gloves to settle the latest topic. Make sure to let us know in the comments who you agree with or even present your own case.
This week’s question: Which Lightning player is the most crucial to a playoff push?
Now that the All-Star Break is over, it’s all about that push. Having that guy be that “it factor” can make or break a team’s chances at the Stanley Cup. We now hand it off to Nick to make his case.
Hedman’s Veteran Leadership Improving Young Lightning Blue Line
February 6, 2024 by Jim Bay
Returning from the All-Star Break, the Tampa Bay Lightning are looking to continue their strong play, which has resulted in them winning eight of their last nine games. Not only are the Lightning benefitting from Nikita Kucherov’s stellar play, but they have also benefited from the re-emergence of Brayden Point. However, one of the most significant factors in their recent success has been the improvement of their blue line.
Early in the season, the Lightning defense struggled, especially when Andrei Vasilevskiy was sidelined after his back surgery. However, during the last 11 games, the defense has picked up its play, resulting in fewer high-danger chances for opponents and allowing the Lightning offense to hit their stride. A great deal of the credit for the improved play goes to the play and leadership of their veteran blueliner, Victor Hedman.