Vincent Lecavalier Photo by Linda Hamilton

In the closing moments of last night’s loss to the New York Rangers, Lightning captain Vincent Lecavalier crumpled to the ice. A Sami Salo slapshot from the blue line struck him in the left foot. After a few long moments that saw fans’ hearts leap into their throats, #4 was able to skate off under his own power.

Per Erik Erlendson of the Tampa Tribune, Lecavalier underwent an MRI which revealed a bone bruise. Vinny said his foot is sore, but he expects to play Tuesday when the Bolts open their road trip against the Philadelphia Flyers. The team does have his status listed as day-to-day.

A serious injury could have out a damper on the Lightning’s season. Lecavalier has been an absolute force for them so far. Through 8 games he has had 4 goals and 11 points. He also leads the team with 24 hits. Yeah. Let that one soak in for a second because it’s still a bit mind boggling.