Lightning’s D’Astous doubtful for Game 2 against Canadiens

D’Astous was hurt during the first game of the series on Sunday evening. Just past the halfway mark of the second period, the 27-year-old was caught with a high and hard hit from Canadiens’ forward Josh Anderson, which led to D’Astous being sandwiched between him and Habs center Jake Evan. The blow led to D’Astous spiraling down to the ice, looking dazed after the play was over.

Anderson was handed a two-minute minor penalty for charging. D’Astous was helped off the ice, and didn’t return to the game. He was credited with 9:35 of ice time across 12 shifts. The Lightning ended up losing the game 4-3 thanks to Juraj Slafkovsky’s hat trick, including the overtime winner.

If D’Astous were to miss the second game of the series, expect either Max Crozier or Declan Carlile to be inserted into the lineup. Crozier returned to action late in the regular season after missing 26 games due to a core muscle injury. Carlile appeared in 42 games this season for Tampa, but has no prior postseason experience.

Sunday was D’Astous’ first NHL playoff game. The Rimouski, Que. native appeared in 70 games in his first full season with the Lightning, scoring six goals and 23 assists for 29 points.

Game 2 between the Bolts and Habs is scheduled for Tuesday night, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET.