Lightning Face Training Camp Challenges with Key Depth Injuries

Lightning Face Training Camp Challenges with Key Depth Injuries

During his opening day media address, Julien BriseBois provided a more detailed update on the team’s health than anticipated. While many of the injuries he discussed will primarily impact the Syracuse Crunch, there are a few that concern the Lightning’s roster. Fortunately, these injuries are not expected to sideline players for much of the regular season.

Mikey Eyssimont, dealing with a lower-body injury, is expected to be out until mid-October. Luke Glendening, recovering from a dislocated shoulder and labral tear sustained late last season, is anticipated to miss training camp but hopes to be ready for the season opener. With their availability uncertain at the start of the season, this opens the door for some fringe players to gain NHL experience.

For the Crunch, the injuries will have a longer-lasting impact, possibly extending into December. Jack Finley, Gabriel Dumont, Daniel Walcott, and Gabriel Fortier are all expected to miss the initial months of the season. While the injuries to Finley, Dumont, and Walcott were anticipated, Fortier’s absence, due to offseason surgery, comes as a bit of a surprise.

The injuries and the shifting of some players to Tampa Bay rather than Syracuse likely influenced the signings of Jujar Khaira and Ara Nazarian to AHL contracts, along with Joel Teasdale receiving a PTO. This has set up a competitive battle for roster spots.

BriseBois mentioned that the team has a “deeper crop of players with a chance [at making the Lightning] than in a long time.” While he did not indicate any player, including Conor Geekie, has a definitive edge, he appreciates the competitive atmosphere in camp.

Players whose chances of making the opening night roster have increased include Geekie, Max Groshev, Lucas Edmonds, Jesse Ylonen, and Lucas Svejkovsky. Another interesting possibility is keeping Ethan Gauthier on the roster longer. If Glendening or Eyssimont are not ready for the start of the season and Gauthier has a standout camp, he could be retained for up to 10 games without burning a year on his contract before being sent back to the QMJHL.

As camp progresses and roster cuts are made, we’ll gain clearer insight into how the Lightning will manage their roster situation.