Lightning's Hedman day-to-day after crashing into boards

It appears Victor Hedman has avoided any serious injuries.

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper said Tuesday that the stalwart is considered day-to-day after leaving Sunday's game against the Carolina Hurricanes, according to NHL.com's Chris Krenn.

Hedman crashed hard into the boards after taking a hit from Andrei Svechnikov.

Victor Hedman left the ice in serious pain after taking a hit from Svechnikov in the corner#GoBolts pic.twitter.com/xMbeZ7JNBI

- Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights (@HockeyDaily365) March 5, 2023

The former Conn Smythe and Norris Trophy winner eventually limped down the tunnel. He returned for one shift before exiting again.

Hedman has recorded six goals and 36 assists in 60 games this season - a down year by his lofty standards. But the 32-year-old is still an integral part of the Lightning's success, as he leads the club in average ice time (23:59).

Here's how the defense lined up in his absence at Tuesday's practice:

While Hedman won't play Tuesday against the Philadelphia Flyers, Cooper confirmed the Bolts will welcome back Cernak, who missed the last two games with a lower-body injury.

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