Gudas has missed the last four games, but was reportedly surprised he did not play on Monday. Skating again this morning is a good sign that the Lightning will get the NHL's fifth leading hitter (209) back on Thursday. Monitor his status following tomorrow's morning skate.
Gudas skated with a regular jersey this morning and is close to returning but is not ready tonight.
Gudas skated on Friday but took part with a no-contact jersey so he was not expected to play tonight. Monitor Gudas' status prior to Monday's contest vs. the Coyotes.
The 'no contact' jersey suggests that Gudas will not be ready for Saturday's clash with the Bruins, but returning to the ice is a step in the right direction for the physical defenseman.
Gudas is doubtful to play vs. the Sabres tonight which would be the second straight game that he will have missed after suffering a lower-body injury on Sunday vs. the Avalanche.
Gudas was injured on Sunday against Colorado and appears he will not play tonight vs. the Blues. With Gudas out, the Lightning will likely return to six defenseman as Mike Kostka moves onto a regular D-pairing.
Gudas left Sunday's loss to the Avalanche favouring his leg after a second period hit. He is expected to be re-evaluated in the next few days, but will likely miss at least Tuesday's contest.
Gudas was injured on Thursday, but it appears that he won't miss any time with the injury and will line up next to Matt Carle today vs. the Flyers.
Gudas is a rugged defenseman posting 88 hits and 68 PIMs in 23 games. He has added a small amount of offense as well with six points (1G / 5A), but is not a great option in leagues without hits and PIMs.
Gudas was injured in a fight with Ducks' defenseman Luca Sbisa on Friday. Gudas has been a solid minutes eater for the Lightning, averaging 19:37 TOI per game. The rugged defenseman has racked up 88 hits and 69 PIMs in 23 games.
Gudas recorded his second career NHL goal on Wednesday. He had two goals and three assists 22 games with Tampa Bay.
