Tampa Bay Lightning's Oliver Bjorkstrand Out for First Round vs. Florida Panthers

Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Jon Cooper confirmed that forward Oliver Bjorkstrand will miss the opening round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Florida Panthers due to a lower-body injury. Bjorkstrand, who was acquired at the trade deadline, had contributed 21 goals and 25 assists across 79 games this season, including nine points in 18 games for Tampa Bay. His absence is a setback for the Lightning's offensive depth, especially as he had started finding his form in the lineup before getting injured. The Lightning will need to rely more on younger players and adjust their lines as they face their state rivals, the defending champion Panthers. Bjorkstrand could be available for the second round if Tampa Bay advances.