It nearly happened tonight because the work visa paperwork filed for Denis still had not cleared as of this morning. So as a precaution, the Lightning had to send Nick Tarnasky down to Springfield and recall Karri Ramo to serve as the backup in case Denis could not play.

But as of 2 p.m. the team received word that Denis’ paperwork had been completed and he will start tonight. But the notice was too late to prevent the other transaction from taking place. So as a result, the team will dress seven defensemen tonight and 11 forwards. Look for Marty St. Louis to be double shifted onto Tim Taylor’s line with Tarnasky out. Also, by the time the morning comes around, the Lightning will recall Tarnasky and send back down Ramo. Tarnasky flew to Tampa this afternoon in preparation for a morning flight out on Friday. Instead, Ramo will likely be on his way to Springfield.

Lightning GM Jay Feaster also indicated that Sean Burke will get the start for Springfield in the Falcons’ season opener on Saturday. The team would like the other NHL teams to see that Burke is healthy and ready to go so that the next time Burke is put on re-entry waivers a team might look into claiming him and clearing half of his salary off Tampa Bay’s salary cap.