Lightning's Garrison injured, won't play vs. Canadiens

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Jason Garrison won't play Tuesday against the Montreal Canadiens due to a lower-body injury.

"We'll know more on Jason when we get home," general manager Steve Yzerman told the Tampa Bay Times. Garrison was injured during the first period of Monday's game against the Ottawa Senators, and will be reevaluated Wednesday in Tampa.

"That's a tough one, too, because he's a big minute-munching defenseman for us," coach Jon Cooper added. "A big body and size. Tough when we lost him."

Cooper said Garrison will miss more than just one game, maybe the next two. Will be re-evaluated tomm. #TBLightning

- Joe Smith (@TBTimes_JSmith) February 9, 2016

Garrison ranks third in ice time among Lightning defenseman, averaging 18:23 per night. His absence will likely mean struggling blue-liner Matt Carle will return to the lineup after being scratched in seven of his team's last eight games. The 31-year-old has yet to record a point in 36 contests this season.

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