Andrei Vasilevskiy speaks with media after practicing for the first time since undergoing back surgery. On Thursday the Tampa Bay Lightning placed backup goaltender Matt Tomkins on waivers, the last step required to make room on the roster for Andrei Vasilevskiy‘s return. Thursday marked exactly 8-weeks since undergoing back surgery to repair two herniated discs. The Vezina and Conn Smythe trophy winner 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. On Wednesday following morning skate, Lightning coach Jon Cooper hinted at Vasilevskiy returning within the next week, saying “There’s a very good chance.” Adding Vasilevskiy back to the roster doesn’t necessarily mean he will start on Friday night against the Canes. He could return at any point during the road trip. If Carolina isn’t an option, he could also start Monday against the Avalanche.
