SUNRISE - After sitting for two games, LW Evgeny Artyukhin returned to the ice Wednesday against the Panthers. But it doesn't mean Artyukhin didn't use the time off to his benefit, other than resting up.

"It was really tough to have to watch the games from upstairs because you want to play and help the team," Artyukhin said. "But it was also a good lesson for me to be able to see some mistakes that are made."

Artyukhin has been bothered by a nagging groin injury but played on a line with C Steven Stamkos and RW Radim Vrbata. Lightning coach Barry Melrose said he was glad to get Artyukhin's presence back into the lineup.

"A big man who can skate like that, he is a presence, people know when he comes over the boards, defenseman know when he comes over the boards," Melrose said. "And I think it's good for guys to watch a couple of games, it gives them a different perspective. Now he's refreshed, ready to come in and probably hungry."

Erik Erlendsson