In a move that likely is clearing the way for the signing of defenseman Marek Malik, the Lightning on Sunday sent defenseman Jamie Heward to AHL Norfolk. Heward is a true professional, who gave the Lightning some badly needed depth while the team played in Europe, and he handled himself understanding fully what was his situation with Tampa Bay.

Lightning coach Barry Melrose has said his target was to have Malik play Tuesday against the Thrashers, and though Melrose voiced some reservations about Malik's conditioning, there is little doubt Tampa Bay will move forward signing the big man.