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Lightning grant Ranger indefinite leave of absence

Staff file photo by JASON BEHNKEN

Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Paul Ranger puts a hit on Panthers Steven Reinprecht during a game at the Forum Oct. 12.

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By TONY FABRIZIO | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 26, 2009

Updated: 10/26/2009 04:21 pm

TAMPA - The Lightning aren't saying why defenseman Paul Ranger was granted an indefinite leave of absence today, and Ranger wasn't available for comment.

Ranger missed Saturday's game against Buffalo and Sunday's practice for what the team called personal reasons. A statement issued by the Lightning today said the 25-year-old Canadian will "return as soon as he is able."

"There will be no further comment from the Lightning or our players and coaches on this matter, and we ask that everyone please respect Paul's privacy at this time," general manager Brian Lawton said in the statement.

Ranger, a top-six defenseman, has one goal and one assist and is minus-2 in eight games. His 2008-2009 season was cut short by injury, and he underwent surgery for a torn shoulder labrum on March 3.

He spent the off-season rehabbing that injury in Tampa and in his hometown of Whitby, Ontario.

Unlike last year, when they were decimated by injuries, the Lightning have some depth on their blue line. Kurtis Foster dressed for Ranger in Saturday's game, and Lukas Krajicek also is available.

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