The Montreal Canadiens kicked off their series against the Tampa Bay Lightning on the right foot. This is because the Habs defeated the Bolts in overtime in Game 1 by a 4-3 final score. Now, they will be looking to beat the Lightning in Game 2. The Lightning have been without their No. 1 defenseman Victor Hedman since their March 19 game against the Vancouver Canucks. While the 35-year-old blueliner has been skating, the Canadiens have now gotten a promising update about the Lightning star defenseman. While speaking to reporters, including TSN's Pierre LeBrun [https://x.com/PierreVLeBrun/status/2046598651175145617], Lightning head coach Jon Cooper shared that Hedman is doubtful to play this series. With Hedman being the Lightning's best defenseman by a significant margin, it would be significant for the Canadiens if he officially does not return to the Bolts' lineup this series. The Lightning are a far better team when Hedman is in the lineup, so the Canadiens will be looking to take advantage while the 2009 second-overall pick continues to be sidelined. In 33 games this season with the Lightning, Hedman had one goal and 17 points.
