Two ex-Blackhawks involved in nasty collision that could result in NHL suspension

Tampa Bay's forward left in the third period of the 5-2 loss and did not return after what appeared to be an ex-Blackhawks Seth Jones elbow to the head area.

Hagel had played 13:32 with two shots on goal before heading to the locker room, leaving the bench without a clear update from Lightning coach Jon Cooper after the game.

This isn't the first time Hagel has come out of a matchup with the Panthers due to physical play, as he was forced out of a preseason game earlier in the year after a hit that drew a misconduct and fine.

Before this game Monday, Hagel had been playing at a strong pace with 18 goals and 31 points in 31 games, and his plus-19 rating was among the team's best.

If this turns into anything more than a short absence, his loss would further thin a Tampa Bay forward group already dealing with other issues.

Fans have already been uneasy given his concussion history from a similar high hit against the Panthers last spring, which ended his playoff run and drew a suspension for Aaron Ekblad.

Lightning forward Brandon Hagel has been prone to throw controversial hits as well.

What makes this hit stand out is how it echoes that earlier situation, where Hagel suffered a concussion that ruled him out of critical playoff hockey.

That context has Lightning fans holding their breath, remembering how impactful Hagel was in the 2024-25 season with career highs in goals (35), assists (55), and 90 points in 82 games.

Cooper offered no immediate update after the loss, and when asked about Hagel's status, the coach simply didn't have clarity to offer. That lack of detail only fuels fan speculation in Tampa Bay about what might come next for the forward.

Tampa Bay now prepares to visit the Panthers again on Dec. 27, with next chapter of this rivalry looming if Hagel can return. For now though, his early exit remains the main takeaway from a rough loss in Amalie Arena. Sportsnet.ca