With Oliver Bjorkstrand already missing their first-round series, the last thing the Tampa Bay Lightning needed was to lose another key forward. Unfortunately, early in the second period, Anthony Cirelli headed to the locker room and wouldn’t return to action. Shortly after the departure of the eight-year veteran, the Florida Panthers reeled off three goals in five minutes to put a close game out of reach.
On his second shift in the second period Cirelli went to throw a hit on Gustav Forsling in the corner. The Panthers’ defenseman avoided the bulk of contact, but their legs were tangled up a bit and the collision looked awkward. There wasn’t any other indication of what it might have been for Cirelli, but he didn’t return to the game, although he did come out for a brief skate around to test out the injury. He wouldn’t return to action.
On Wednesday, Coach Jon Cooper did not have an update on his second-line center’s status.
Not having Cirelli in the line-up on Thursday would be a huge blow for the Lightning. Not only did he have a breakout season, scoring 27 goals, he is their best defensive forward. He spent the bulk of Game 1 against the Matthew Tkachuk line. While he was on the ice for both of Florida’s first-period goals, he had positive possession numbers against the best Florida forwards.
As a line, Anthony Cirelli, Brandon Hagel, and Jake Guentzel had an 8-3 edge in shot attempts, 4-3 edge in scoring chances, and 3-2 edge in high-danger chances against their opponents. They were projected to be one of the, if not the most, important line for the Lightning as they were tasked with shutting down the Tkachuk line, and provide some secondary offense behind the Brayden Point line.
It isn’t a coincidence that the Lightning gave up three power-play goals without Cirelli in the line-up as he is their top penalty-killer. Not only does he prevent other teams from scoring, but he also provides offense with four short-handed goals and three assists.
If Cirelli isn’t able to go, not only do they lose his offensive and defensive capabilities, but they also have to adjust their lines. Nick Paul is the most likely candidate to fill Cirelli’s role, but that takes him off of the third line. Conor Geekie would then move to the center of the ice and either Cameron Atkinson or Mitchell Chaffee would cycle into the line-up.
We will keep you updated as more news trickles out in regards to his status for Game 2.
