The Tampa Bay Lightning will commence their post-Olympic break schedule under interim leadership, as Head Coach Jon Cooper will be absent from the bench for the team’s next two contests. This temporary change comes in the wake of the passing of Cooper’s father, a deeply personal loss for the longtime coach.
In an official statement released by the organization, the Lightning confirmed that the 58-year-old Cooper will not be behind the bench for Wednesday night’s highly anticipated home matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs, nor for the subsequent game on Thursday. The team has expressed its full support for Cooper during this period of mourning, emphasizing that family takes precedence over hockey.
Assistant coaches will assume Cooper’s duties during his brief absence, ensuring continuity in game preparation and in-game management. The organization has requested privacy for the Cooper family while also acknowledging the outpouring of support from the hockey community, including condolences from rival teams and players across the National Hockey League.
The Lightning players, returning from the international break, have unified in their support for their coach, dedicating their upcoming performances to his family. This incident highlights the human element often overshadowed by the competitive nature of professional sports, demonstrating how teams rally around their members during times of personal tragedy.