If the Tampa Bay Lightning are going to get back into their first-round series with the Montreal Canadiens, it's looking like they'll have to do so without their captain on the ice with them.
Speaking to reporters Tuesday morning before Game 2, Tampa head coach Jon Cooper said Victor Hedman is "doubtful" for the entirety of the Lightning's opening-round matchup with the Habs.
Hedman hasn't played since March 19 due to an illness, followed by a leave of absence he took from the team for personal reasons.
The 35-year-old tallied one goal and 17 points in just 33 games played this season.
In other Lightning news, Cooper also said that Declan Carlile will make his NHL post-season debut Tuesday, slotting in for the injured Edouard D’Astous.
Elsewhere, enforcer Scott Sabourin will replace fellow forward Conor Geekie up front.
The Canadiens lead the best-of-seven series 1-0.
Game 2 goes Tuesday night at 7:00 p.m. ET on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+.
