Lightning's Malone arrested on pair of charges

Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Ryan Malone was arrested Saturday morning, charged with driving under the influence and possession of cocaine.

According to a Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office report, Malone, 34, was arrested early Saturday morning. He was being held on $2,500 bond.

"We are aware of the situation this morning involving Tampa Bay Lightning forward Ryan Malone. Under the terms of the collectively bargained joint NHL/NHLPA Substance Abuse and Behavioral Health Program, Mr. Malone is subject to mandatory evaluation and, if deemed necessary by the Program Doctors, treatment pursuant to the terms of that Program," NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said in a statement. "His future playing status, both in the near term and during the [Stanley Cup] Playoffs, will be determined in accordance the terms of our SABH Program."

The Lightning played Friday night, defeating the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-2 at Tampa Bay Times Forum. Malone was a healthy scratch for the game. He has five goals and 15 points in 57 appearances this year.

"We are aware of the situation concerning Ryan Malone this morning," Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman said in a statement. "Ryan will not travel with the team to Washington today, but beyond that we cannot comment further at this time."