The Tampa Bay Lightning appear set for a blue-line boost.
Victor Hedman is expected to return to the lineup against the Boston Bruins in the NHL Stadium Series on Sunday, head coach Jon Cooper told reporters on Saturday.
“Purposely didn't speak with him beforehand, but I think you saw what happened at the end of practice," Cooper said. "So barring him coming in saying no, which I think is extremely doubtful, he'll most likely be in tomorrow.”
Hedman has been sidelined since undergoing elbow surgery in December. The Lightning captain has 12 assists in 18 games this season.
Hedman's return also signifies that he should to go for Team Sweden at the Olympics, where men's hockey competition begins Feb. 11.
The Lightning sit first in the Atlantic Division with 72 points this season.
Live coverage of Lightning-Bruins for Raymond James Stadium in Tampa will be available on Sportsnet and Sportsnet+ on Sunday beginning at 6:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT.
