Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman could play as early as Saturday when the Lightning host the Ottawa Senators (Nov. 29) at Amalie Arena.

While not likely, Lightning coach Jon Cooper wouldn’t rule out Hedman returning to action before the close of the month of November. Yesterday, Cooper hinted Hedman was would likely come back in early December.

Cooper did say Hedman was definitely out for Wednesday’s game against the New York Rangers.

“Wednesday, no,” Cooper said. “Saturday, I’ll probably say no-ish. After that, the no-ish turns into –ish.”

Hedman has missed 17 games since leaving the Vancouver contest (Oct. 18) with a fractured finger.

“There’s no question, he’s getting close,” Cooper said.