The Tampa Bay Lightning have announced that winger Oliver Bjorkstrand will be out week-to-week due to a lower-body injury.
While speaking to reporters, including NHL.com's Benjamin Pierce, Lightning head coach Jon Cooper said that he hopes Bjorkstrand will be able to return during the post-season.
With the playoffs right around the corner, it is certainly concerning that Bjorkstrand is considered week-to-week. He is an important part of the Lightning's forward group, and they will undoubtedly miss his offensive contributions when he is sidelined.
Bjorkstrand was acquired by the Lightning last month from the Seattle Kraken. Since the trade, the 30-year-old winger has posted five goals, four assists, nine points, and a plus-3 rating in 18 games with the Lightning. In 79 games this campaign split between the Kraken and Bolts, he has 21 goals, 46 points, and a plus-2 rating.
The Lightning will now need to adjust without Bjorkstand in their lineup from here. This is undoubtedly a tough blow for the Atlantic Division club.
