Victor Hedman speaks with reporters postgame The Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/] have announced that defenseman Erik Cernak will not return to the club's contest against the Anaheim Ducks [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/anaheim-ducks/]. The Lightning did not specify Cernak's specific injury, but the Bolts will be without their key blueliner for the remainder of this matchup. This is certainly tough news for the Lightning, as Cernak is a very important part of their top four. As a result, they will hope that this isn't too serious of an injury and that he won't need to miss more time after this game. Erik Cernak [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1Mzg4MjA4ODkwOTgwMzA4/usatsi_22617400.jpg] Erik Cernak Cernak, 27, has appeared in 40 games this season with the Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-defender-injured-after-receiving-dirty-hit], posting 10 assists, 53 blocks, 92 hits, and a plus-11 rating. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjEyMTYzOTA0NDY4NDI4Nzc2/google-news.png] Stay updated with the most interesting Lightning stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News [https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMK-q0gsw7sXpAw/sections/CAQqEAgAKgcICjCvqtILMO7F6QMwruDfCA?hl=en-CA&gl=CA&ceid=CA%3Aen] to never miss a story.
