Lightning lose Hedman 4-6 weeks to hand injury

Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman (77), centre, celebrates his goal with teammate Steven Stamkos, right, on Mar. 24, 2014. The Lightning are looking for increased offensive production from the big defender this season. (Chris O'Meara/Associated Press)

TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa Bay Lightning defenceman Victor Hedman will be out of action four to six weeks a broken finger on his right hand.

Hedman was hurt in the Lightning’s 4-2 win in Vancouver on Saturday. He left the game in the second period and did not return. The team said the broken finger will require surgery.

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Hedman was off to a promising start this season with three goals and four assists in five games.

“That’s a big loss, he’s playing so well and he’s a horse for us,” Lightning captain Steven Stamkos said after Saturday’s game.

Hedman posted a career-high 55-points in 2013-14, ranking him fourth in league scoring for defensemen.

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