The Tampa Bay Lightning returned to practice after their Western road trip, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli discuss the latest injury updates, the success of Coop's Catch for Kids, and what they're seeing from the Lightning through the first month of the season. The annual charity event raised more than $500,000 for pediatric cancer research, continuing one of the organization's most impactful traditions.

The guys provide updates on Victor Hedman, Zemgus Girgensons, and Anthony Cirelli, while also diving into the continued development of Conor Geekie. They discuss why the coaching staff is taking a measured approach with Geekie's minutes, how his game continues to grow, and why his current role may be exactly what he needs at this stage of his NHL career.

Later, three-time Stanley Cup champion Pat Maroon joins the show for an entertaining and insightful conversation on hockey analytics, the Lightning power play, Brayden Point's start to the season, and what makes Nikita Kucherov one of the smartest players he's ever seen. Maroon also shares his thoughts on Scott Sabourin, the value of fourth-line players, and why toughness still matters in today's NHL. 

Topics Discussed

• Coop's Catch for Kids raises more than $500,000 for pediatric cancer research
• Why the Lightning value the event beyond hockey
• Scott Sabourin's impact despite limited playing time
• Comparing the current checking line to past Lightning shutdown units
• Pontus Holmberg's surprising offensive production
• Victor Hedman returns to the ice
• Injury updates on Zemgus Girgensons and Anthony Cirelli
• Why Conor Geekie remains in an ideal development spot
• Geekie's usage on the fourth line and power-play unit
• Are the Lightning heading into a rough patch?
• Brayden Point's scoring drought and why Pat Maroon isn't concerned
• How opponents defend Point and Kucherov
• The ongoing evolution of the Lightning power play
• Why Maroon would like to see John Carlson utilized more as a shooting threat
• Analytics vs. eye test: Maroon's unfiltered opinions
• Why Sabourin's role is more valuable than many fans realize
• Kucherov's work ethic and preparation behind the scenes
• Maroon's case for Kucherov as one of the smartest players in hockey
• Kucherov's pursuit of all-time greatness
• Previewing the Lightning's upcoming matchup with Winnipeg

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