The Tampa Bay Lightning are off to a strong start, but they’ll have to go at least a month without one of their top defensemen.
Victor Hedman will undergo surgery Tuesday and miss 4-6 weeks after breaking his finger while blocking a shot Saturday night, the team announced Monday.
The former second overall pick in the 2009 NHL draft had a career year last season, scoring 13 goals and 55 points in 75 games. He started strong again this season and led all defensemen with seven points and five power-play points prior to his injury.
The Lightning won three of their first four games this season, but will look to continue their success without their top defenseman.
On the bright side, the team played for four months last season without superstar forward Steven Stamkos and still managed to make the playoffs.
