Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy is making great progress in his recovery from back surgery. According to Lightning coach Jon Cooper, Vasilevskiy’s rehabilitation is going smoothly, and there is a possibility of him returning to the lineup earlier than expected. Originally slated to miss eight to ten weeks following a successful microdiscectomy, Vasilevskiy’s early return could potentially happen around Thanksgiving.
Andrei Vasilevskiy’s return will undoubtedly be a significant boost for the Tampa Bay Lightning. As the 2019 Vezina Trophy winner, he has been the backbone of the team during their successful five-year run, including consecutive Stanley Cup championships and another Cup Final appearance. Vasilevskiy’s outstanding performance in 2020-21 even earned him the Conn Smythe Trophy. The importance of his presence on the ice cannot be overstated.
Last season, Vasilevskiy’s performance dipped slightly, falling below his usual high standard. His numbers, including a 34-22-4 record, .915 save percentage, and 2.65 goals against average, were not up to par. When the playoffs arrived, Vasilevskiy and the Lightning were eliminated in a six-game first-round series against Toronto. Reflecting on the season, Vasilevskiy acknowledged that his biggest mistake was pushing himself too hard and not prioritizing recovery. The toll of his commitment to his team eventually caught up to him, leading to the need for surgery before the current season began.
During Vasilevskiy’s absence, the Lightning have relied on Jonas Johansson to carry the load in goal. Johansson has performed admirably, posting a 5-1-3 record with a .916 save percentage and two shutouts. Matt Tomkins has served as Johansson’s backup, but he has struggled, with a 0-2-0 record and .891 save percentage. While the Lightning have managed without Vasilevskiy, his return will bring stability and confidence to the team.
The Lightning’s upcoming game against the Toronto Maple Leafs will mark Vasilevskiy’s second absence from the lineup this season. The previous encounter between the two teams ended in an overtime loss for the Lightning on home ice. With Vasilevskiy inching closer to a return, the Lightning will be eager to show their strength and seek revenge against the Maple Leafs.
The imminent return of Andrei Vasilevskiy is highly anticipated by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Vasilevskiy’s recovery progress has been positive, and he may be back in action earlier than initially projected. As a key player for the Lightning, his presence on the ice has been sorely missed. The team has relied on their backup goaltenders, Johansson and Tomkins, to hold the fort in Vasilevskiy’s absence. Nonetheless, Vasilevskiy’s return will provide a significant boost, bringing stability, skill, and confidence to the team. The upcoming matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs will be a chance for the Lightning to showcase their strength and determination with Vasilevskiy potentially back in the crease.
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