Victor Hedman Plays Playoffs with Broken Foot, Lightning Eliminated

Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman played through a broken foot suffered in Game 4 of the first-round playoff series against the Florida Panthers, only discovering the severity after the game but continuing to play until the team's elimination. General Manager Julien BriseBois detailed a series of significant injuries across the roster, including forward Oliver Bjorkstrand's emergency leg surgery due to compartment syndrome, and other key players contending with ailments such as ACL sprains, shoulder separations, and concussions. Despite their efforts, the Lightning were eliminated by the Panthers in five games. Hedman and Bjorkstrand are both expected to make full recoveries ahead of next season, as are the other injured players. The team's resilience in the face of injuries was highlighted, but the injuries ultimately impacted their playoff run. Tampa Bay aims to return to the postseason in 2026 with a healthier roster.