Times beat reporter Damian Cristodero took your Lightning questions for an hour this afternoon live from Prague, site of the Lightning's season-opening games this weekend against the New York Rangers. Here is a full transcript:

(Pictured above: Lightning goalie Mike Smith makes a save during a preseason game against Slovan. AP photo.)

Q: What is your opinion of the Lightning giving Meszaros an "A" Did he do something in the preseason games we did not see, are they hoping he will led the D? -- HockeyRules!

DAMIAN: Yes, he is young and just joined the team, but this guy is going to be a featured player for Tampa Bay, and coach Barry Melrose wants him to be a leader now and in the future. He has been very good, I believe, in preseason and with 248 NHL games under his belt, he clearly is the most experienced blue-liner. Melrose also said he likes the idea of having a defenseman as an alternate (it is a very important part of the team, of course), especially one who will be on the ice as much as Meszaros: 25 to 30 minutes.

Q: DC, Has there been any indication of when Paul Ranger might be ready to return? -- Don in St. Pete

DAMIAN: The defenseman, out with a shoulder injury, was made a non-roster player today because he technically did not pass his physical. I've been told he could be ready to play by the Oct. 16 game against the Islanders. While part of the designation is certainly warranted (Ranger himself said a while back, he was not where he needed to be), it also buys Tampa Bay some time in dealing with a crowded roster. So, saying he is a non-roster player serves two purposes, and probably in the long run is better for Ranger as it gives him more time to heal. ... Read more

Want to talk Lightning? Bucs? Rays? College football? Whatever's on your mind, join Times sports writer Tom Jones for a live chat today, from noon to 1 p.m. Can't make it? Leave a question in the "Comments'' area below, then check back later to replay the chat.

You can follow the chat here.

The Lightning opens the 2010-11 season Saturday at home against Atlanta. To get ready, join Times beat reporter Damian Cristodero for a live chat Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m. Can't make it? Leave a question in the "Comments'' area below, then check back later to replay the chat. ... Read more

Want to talk about the Lightning's impressive start? The Rays' quick exit from the baseball playoffs? The Bucs' surprising early-season showing? LeBron James' upcoming appearance in Tampa? College football? Whatever's on your mind, join the Times' Tom Jones for a live chat today, from noon to 1 p.m.

Follow the chat here.