Andrei Vasilevskiy speaks with media after practicing for the first time since undergoing back surgery. On Wednesday following morning skate, Lightning coach Jon Cooper hinted at Andrei Vasilevskiy returning within the next week, saying “There’s a very good chance.” Thursday afternoon the Tampa Bay Lightning placed backup goaltender Matt Tomkins on waivers, the last step required to make room on the roster for Vasilevskiy‘s return. By Friday, the Vezina and Conn Smythe trophy winner was back in the starters net ahead of their 8pm EST matchup vs Carolina. Jon Cooper later confirmed to Gabby Shirley that Vasilevskiy would get the start. Thursday marked exactly 8-weeks since undergoing back surgery to repair two herniated discs. Vasilevskiy has participated in team practices for the past two weeks, saying he felt good and was “on track” to return, so long as his body continued healing properly. Jonas Johansson has filled in as the starter for the Lightning and entered Wednesday's game with an 8-4-4 record and a 3.44 goals-against average in 16 games.
