Lightning's Matt Tomkins: Starting in Columbus

Tomkins will defend the visiting net in Columbus on Thursday, Gabby Shirley of Bally Sports Florida reports.

This will be a return home of sorts for Tomkins who played four seasons at Ohio State during his collegiate career. Tomkins will make his second career start, as he dropped a 5-2 decision in Ottawa on Oct. 15, giving up four goals on 37 shots. The 29-year-old will face the Blue Jackets, who have scored 23 goals this season in nine games.