Lightning owner Jeff Vinik involved in snowmobile accident
Photo credit: Kim Klement-Imagn Images
Jeff Vinik has been a key part of the hockey resurgence in Florida, but ahead of the Stadium Series, he will miss the event due to a terrible accident.
The NHL has long looked for a successful period in Florida, and over the past six years, that's exactly what they've gotten, with Tampa Bay and Florida winning four of the past six Stanley Cups.
While the success can't all be credited to just one or two people, it's hard to ignore Lightning owner Jeff Vinik, who has been instrumental in the teams success, as well as bringing the Stadium Series to Tampa Bay, something he's been pushing for over the past several years.
Vinik to miss Stadium Series after accident
That event is set to take place in the coming days as the Lightning are to match up against the Boston Bruins in the event, but unfortunately, Vinik himself won't be able to attend.
According to a recent report, Vinik was involved in a snowmobile accident, and while he's not expected to have suffered any long-term injuries as a result of it, it appears as though he will not be able to attend the event he's played such a key role in landing for Tampa Bay.
While there was no tragedies in the accident thankfully, Vinik missing the Stadium Series is a brutal blow for the Lightning's owner, as he has played such a major role in the resurgence in Tampa Bay, that missing an event such as this must be heartbreaking for him.
Following the incident, the organization put out a statement about Vinik and the accident, clearly expressing immense gratitude for his work and sending well wishes for his recovery.
As an organization, we are deeply thankful for his resilience and dedication, and although we are heartbroken he will miss this historic moment for the Tampa Bay Lightning, a milestone he tirelessly worked to bring to our community, we know he will be watching and taking immense pride in what Team Tampa Bay has accomplished. Go Bolts!
Ultimately though, this is a city and a team that's ready to host such a big event, and while Vinik won't be there to see it, according to everyone involved, it should be a must-see event for NHL fans, so we hope he's back to 100% in the near future.
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