The Lightning avoided what would have been a big blow vs. Avalanche in Game 4.
Center Anthony Cirelli left during the second period with an apparent upper-body injury. After he was tripped up behind the Avalanche net, it looks as if he was clipped by the skate of teammate Alex Killorn.
smh pic.twitter.com/V5WzBBlhrz
— Timothy Burke (@bubbaprog) June 23, 2022
Cirelli returned in the third period, however, and took the opening draw for the Lightning. He did not appear affected by the injury while he was skating.
It would have been a big blow for the Lightning as Cirelli, along with linemates Alex Killorn and Brandon Hagel, have been consistently paired up against Nathan MacKinnon and the top line of Colorado. He's by far their best defensive forward and has done a sensational job thus far of shutting down the Avs' top forwards at 5 on 5.
Cirelli also has contributed offensively, opening the scoring just 36 seconds into Game 4 by cleaning up a rebound in front.
36 seconds in to Game 4, Lightning score 😱
— 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬 (@sportingnews) June 23, 2022
🎥 @Sportsnet pic.twitter.com/Aw3bijap8t
In 21 playoff games, Cirelli has three goals and seven assists.
Tampa Bay is taking their one-goal lead into the final period of Wednesday night's contest.
SCF Game 4: Lightning vs. Avalanche live updates
What is Anthony Cirelli's injury?
It's strictly speculation right now if the injury is a result of Killorn's skate. By the video of the play, Cirelli's delayed reaction makes it seem as though the injury does not stem from the fall, but rather something that happens while he is on the ground.
smh pic.twitter.com/V5WzBBlhrz
— Timothy Burke (@bubbaprog) June 23, 2022
Killorn's skate appeared to be right near Cirelly's bicep when Cirelli quickly reached for the arm, ripping off his glove and heading immediately off the ice.
At the very least, based on Cirelli's reaction, it is most definitely a right arm injury.
This story will continue to be updated.