During the second period of the Tampa Bay Lightning's game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, forward Gage Goncalves left the bench at some point and did not return.
Goncalves' absence came shortly after the Lightning lost defenseman Erik Cernak to injury, who also did not return to the game. The Lightning were also missing forward Jack Finley and defenseman Max Crozier in tonight's game, as they were both late scratches due to illness.
It's unknown what caused Goncalves to leave the Lightning bench, as there was no clear play that caused an injury.
This season, Goncalves has played 45 games for the Lightning. He's scored six goals and recorded a total of 16 points on the season. At the time of injury, he was playing on the second line alongside Dominic James and Jake Guentzel. He also has been part of the second power play unit, often playing on the point.
At this time, there has been no update on Goncalves' condition besides the fact that he will not return to the game against Columbus. The Lightning already have quite a few key players on the injured reserve, including Victor Hedman, Ryan McDonagh, and Brayden Point. As a result, they are already testing their depth.