Lightning rookie Drouin could see action in Stanley Cup Final Game 2
TAMPA, Fla. -- After not skating in the Eastern Conference Finals and only appearing sparingly in the opening two rounds, rookie winger Jonathan Drouin might see the ice in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final on Saturday night.
Drouin said he received word that he'll participate in pregame warm-ups with the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena as they attempt to even the best-of-7 series against the Chicago Blackhawks at one game apiece. The third overall pick in the 2013 draft last logged time in the postseason when he skated for 14:56 and had three shots on goal in the Montreal Canadiens' 6-2 victory in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Drouin also appeared in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals against the Detroit Red Wings (8:42, one shot on goal) and Game 3 against Montreal (9:54, zero).
"It's definitely a little different getting in shape for game situations than I do in practices," Drouin said. "But I've been working hard in the gym and on the ice for a chance like this. I'm definitely happy."
Drouin's lack of playing time has become a topic of conversation among some in Tampa Bay's postseason run. He entered this campaign with high expectations, but he closed the regular season with just four goals and 28 assists in 70 games.
Lightning coach Jon Cooper said his team usually has placed 21 players in pregame warm-ups during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. That means even with Drouin taking part in the early work Saturday night, there's no guarantee the young player will participate in game action.
"You've got to show up to the game to see who's going to play," Cooper said. "But Joe, he's a talented player. And I think if you've watched him in the regular season, he gives us a different look when he's in the lineup."
Cooper said he's not concerned about how a long postseason layoff may affect Drouin if the rookie takes part in Game 2. The coach said it's Drouin's task to be ready.
"You've got to be a pro," Cooper said. "You've got to make yourself ready. Yes, if he's in tonight, is it going to be a little bit to get bumped a little differently and feel the flow of the game, the speed of the game? There's no question. But they're all National Hockey League players, and it doesn't take them long. So if anything, these guys come in, and they don't have the bumps and bruises. They're a little more fresh. They're probably better off."
You can follow Andrew Astleford on Twitter @aastleford or email him at aastleford@gmail.com.
