from Tom Jones of the Tampa Bay Times,

The time has arrived. He has arrived.

Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman is no longer the kid with potential. He's no longer a future star.

When it comes to Hedman, it isn't about "someday'' or "eventually'' or "down the road.''

Hedman is a star. Right now.

It's happening right before our very eyes.

If you've watched the Lightning this season — if you've watched the Lightning in these playoffs — you've seen the maturation and evolution of a hockey player. From boy to man. From prospect to standout.

Victor Hedman has arrived.

"He's an unbelievable defenseman,'' teammate and forward Alex Killorn said. "Not just on our team, but throughout the league, he's one of the best defensemen in the league.''

He can play offense. He has a goal and seven assists in the playoffs.

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