Erik Cernak Injury Update, What Happened to Tampa Bay Lightning Defenseman Erik Cernak?
by Preethi
Updated Jan 12, 2024
Erik Cernak Injury Update
Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak suffered an upper-body injury during a game against the New Jersey Devils. The 26-year-old had to leave the match, and the team confirmed that he would not be returning. Cernak had previously missed three games earlier in January due to a similar upper-body injury. It remains unclear if the recent injury is related to the earlier one.
Cernak, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, has played 38 games this season, recording five points. The Lightning is awaiting updates on his condition for upcoming games, with fans speculating the potential inclusion of Philippe Myers in the lineup if Cernak is unable to play in the next match against the Anaheim Ducks.
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Who is Erik Cernak?
Erik Cernak is a skilled Slovak professional ice hockey defenseman currently playing for the Tampa Bay Lightning in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on May 28, 1997, in Košice, Slovakia, Cernak stands tall at 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 224 pounds. He began his youth career with HC Košice before catching the attention of NHL scouts.
In the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, Cernak was selected by the Los Angeles Kings in the second round, 43rd overall. His promising potential led to a three-year entry-level contract with the Kings. Subsequently, he made his NHL debut in 2018 when he was traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Cernak is known for his defensive prowess and has been a key player for the Lightning, contributing to their back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021. His remarkable skills and contributions have also earned him a significant net worth through lucrative NHL contracts.
Name
Erik Černák
Born
28 May 1997
Age
26
Birthplace
Košice, Slovakia
Height
6 ft 4 in (193 cm)
Weight
224 lb (102 kg; 16 st 0 lb)
Position
Defence
Shoots
Right
NHL Team
Tampa Bay Lightning
National Team
Slovakia
Playing Career
2013–present
Erik Cernak Career
Erik Cernak's hockey journey began with HC Košice, and he later played in the Slovakian national junior under-20 team. His standout performances earned him recognition as one of the top European prospect skaters. After signing with the Los Angeles Kings in 2015, he underwent development in the AHL before making his mark in the NHL with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Known for his defensive abilities, Cernak's career highlights include recording his first NHL point in 2018 and his first career NHL goal in 2019 against the New York Rangers. He solidified his place in the Lightning roster, signing significant contracts, including an eight-year extension in 2022.
Cernak's journey reflects determination and skill development, leading him to become a key player in the NHL. His achievements include contributing to the Lightning's success and securing multi-million-dollar contracts, highlighting his impact on the ice.
Erik Cernak Family
Erik Cernak hails from Košice, Slovakia, and comes from a family that includes notable relatives in the hockey world. He is a cousin of Christián Jaroš, who previously played in the NHL for the Ottawa Senators, San Jose Sharks, and New Jersey Devils.
While specific details about his immediate family may not be extensively publicized, Cernak's family background suggests a connection to the sport through relatives who have also made a mark in professional hockey. The support and influence of his hockey-inclined family likely played a role in shaping Cernak's career and contributing to his success as a professional defenseman in the NHL.
Erik Cernak International Stats
2013
Slovakia U17
10th
5
0
0
0
8
2013
Slovakia WJC18
9th
6
0
2
2
8
2014
Slovakia WJC
8th
5
0
0
0
4
2014
Slovakia WJC18
8th
5
0
0
0
6
2015
Slovakia WJC
3rd
6
0
2
2
4
2016
Slovakia WJC
7th
4
0
0
0
2
2017
Slovakia WJC
8th
5
0
1
1
2
2019
Slovakia WC
9th
7
3
2
5
8
Junior totals
-
-
36
0
5
5
34
Senior totals
-
-
7
3
2
5
8
Year
Team
Result
GP
G
A
Pts
PIM
Erik Cernak Age
Erik Cernak is 26 years old, having been born on May 28, 1997, in Košice, Slovakia. Despite his relatively young age, Cernak has already established himself as a prominent figure in the NHL, showcasing his defensive skills and contributing significantly to the Tampa Bay Lightning's success.
His journey from a promising prospect to an established defenseman reflects both his talent and dedication to the sport. As a key player for the Lightning, Cernak's age positions him as a valuable asset with the potential for continued growth and success in the years to come.
What Happened to Tampa Bay Lightning Defenseman Erik Cernak?
Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak suffered an upper-body injury during a game against the New Jersey Devils, forcing him to leave the match. This injury comes after he missed three previous games in January due to a similar upper-body issue. It remains uncertain if he will be available for the next game against the Anaheim Ducks.
Erik Cernak Injury Update - FAQs
Erik Cernak suffered an upper-body injury during a game against the New Jersey Devils, with uncertainties about his availability for upcoming matches.
Erik Cernak is 26 years old, born on May 28, 1997, in Košice, Slovakia.
Erik Cernak plays as a defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Cernak is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2020 and 2021.
Yes, he has represented Slovakia in various tournaments, including the World Junior Championships.