Game 20: Tampa Bay Lightning (9-9-1) At New York Rangers (8-8-2)

The New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning are very possibly the two most underachieving teams so far in the NHL this season. After a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, the Rangers were expected to match and surpass that success this season, but that hasnt happened. they are operating at merely a point a game, same as the Lightning, and most shockingly have averaged a mere 2.39 goals per game, this a team with Brad Richards and Rick Nash, a team that was expected to have a potent offense. The Rangers got out of a slump a but but are now staring at a four game losing streak, averaging just 1.5 goals per game over that stretch.

The Lightning meanwhile, continue to slump after a 6-1 start. They are just 3-8-1 over their past 12 games, averaging 2.77 goals per game over that stretch. This slump began with a 3-2 loss against the Rangers, and despite the Rangers struggles, the Lightning are 0-2 against them this season, scoring just 3 goals in the two games, and allowing 8. One of the biggest problems over the slump has been the power play, since going 1-1 in the first loss to the Rangers February 1st, the Lightning are 4-41 on the power play in the last 11 games, 9.8%, a percentage worse than the 30th ranked power play in the league. The hot start on the power play still has the Bolts near the top of the league, but its getting close to falling below 20%.

Stamkos is now up to 30 points on the season, which would put him on pace for a staggering 129 in an 82 game season. The Rangers are led in goals by Marian Gaborik with seven, half as many as Stamkos. Gaborik also leads the team in points with 12, eighteen less than Stammer.

The Lightning will be without defenseman Sami Salo, who is day to day with a lower body injury. Salo is one of only two competent defenders on the team along with Hedman so this could mean trouble.

It appears Garon will get the start in net again, and maybe he has taken over the number one job. Despite only two wins in seven starts his GAA is far better than Lindback, 2.63 compared to 3.27.

Head to Head
Goals Per Game: Rangers: 2.39 (23rd) Lightning: 3.68 (1st)
Goals Against Per Game: Rangers: 2.56 (12th) Lightning: 3.11 (24th)
Save Percentage: Rangers: .911 (10th) Lightning: .897 (24th)
Power Play: Rangers: 11.1% (29th) Lightning: 22.1% (7th)
Penalty Kill: Rangers: 83.6% (10th) Lightning: 83.1% (13th)

Around the southeast: Hurricanes are at home facing the Penguins. The Panthers are also at home facing Buffalo, and the Jets are also at home facing the Devils. The Caps are off after losing badly last night.

Miller stands on his head, delivers Sabres to win over Lightning 2-1

The 6-13 Buffalo Sabres were reeling coming into the game, and just 1:16 into this one the Lightning already had a 1-0 lead as Stamkos tipped in a rebound past Miller. It appeared to be a good start to an expected win. But the Sabres tied it up quickly leading to a 1-1 game heading to the second. After that the Bolts got four power plays in the second, and an extended 5 on 3, but failed to score, opening the way to a Sabres lead just 52 seconds into the third, a lead they wouldnt relinquish, as Miller made some great saves for a 2-1 win.

The Lightning finished the game 0 for 6 on the power play, dropping their overall percentage for the season to 22%.

the Lightning outshot the Sabres 31-21, but I thought the chances could have been better. As per the usual lately, they passed up several good opportunities to try and make an extra fancy pass.

Stamkos is now up to 14 goals in the season, and has been on a tear lately. 14 goals in 19 games would put him on pace for 60 in an 82 game season.

This one was brutally tough to swallow, a game they simply should not have lost, it hurt. But stunningly, despite a below .500 record, the Bolts are still tied atop the division, but now its a 3 way tie with Winnipeg entering tying the Bolts and Canes, the same Winnipeg dead last in penalty kill in the NHL and that the Bolts mauled 8-3.

A four game road trip starts tomorrow in New York. Then onto Boston, Pittsburgh, and New Jersey, really a brutal road trip.

Southeast Standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 19 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 19 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 19 points
4. Florida Panthers: 16 points
5. Washington Capitals: 15 points

Game 19: Buffalo Sabres (6-12-1) At Tampa Bay Lightning (9-8-1)

the Lightning are about to get a much needed break from their brutal schedule. The dumpster fire that is the 2013 Buffalo Sabres come to town. After a promising start to the season the Sabres are 4-13, theyve lost 4 in a row and six of their last seven. Theyve scored a mere 10 goals in their last seven games. As bad as theyve been, they still have the leading goal scorer in the NHL in Thomas Vanek on their team. How bad would they be if they didnt have him?

Looking deeper into why Buffalo has been so bad this year, shots against is a good place to start. Theyve allowed 35 or more shots an astounding 8 times this year, making the Lightnings 4 times look good. They are dead last in shots allowed per game, 28th in goals allowed, 20th in goals scored, dead last in power play percentage and near the bottom in penalty kill.

Head to Head
Goals Per game: Sabres: 2.47 (21st) Lightning: 3.83(1st)
Goals against per game: Sabres: 3.32 (28th) Lightning: 3.17 (25th)
Save Percentage: Sabres: .901 (20th) Lightning: .897 (23rd)
Power Play: Sabres: 11.3% (30th) Lightning: 23.9% (6th)
Penalty Kill: Sabres: 79.2% (20th) Lightning: 82.8% (12th)

Around the southeast: Jets are on the road taking on the Rangers, Caps and Canes face off in DC, and the Panthers are facing the Penguins at home. 

Slow start dooms Bolts, fall to Pens 5-3

Just 1:16 into Sunday nights game and Crsoby had alreayd roofed a shot past Lindback from the slot. At the 7:15 mark, Crosby got another goal, although this one was a bit of a lucky one, as Lindback lost one in his crease that sneaked in. With 34 seconds left in the period, Paul Martin put one in and the rout appeared to be on. 3-0 after a period, and Lindback continues to get worse after a promising start. Garon was put in for the second period and the Bolts woke up. Two goals in the first 3:14 of the second put it within a goal, but when the Pens got a 5 on 3, they were able to extend the lead back to two heading to the third. Just 3:15 into the third, Cory Conacher got the Bolts within a goal at 4-3, but they were unable to tie and an empty netter from Matt Cooke with a minute left sealed the deal.

The story of this game to me is Anders Lindback. He has looked worse and worse as the season goes along and this game was absolutely atrocious. Many are calling for Garon to be moved up to the number one slot, but I still think the team has more upside with Lindback in net. I cant see them riding Garon to a division championship.

Stammer had three points to make it a league leading 29. What a beast

Thats all from this one, Im trying to get the preview for tomorrow nights game prepared

Southeast Standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 19 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 19 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 17 points
4. Florida Panthers: 14 points
5. Washington Capitals: 13 points

Game 18: Tampa Bay Lightning (9-7-1) At Pittsburgh Penguins (12-6-0)

The two most potent offenses in the NHL go head to head for the first of three meetings this season Sunday night. The Penguins will be playing without one of their two superstars in Evgeni Malkin, who is out for the time being with concussion symptoms.

A win tonight would give the Lightning their first three game road winning streak since the end of the 2010-11 season, a very long time.

The Penguins are led in goals by James Neal with 12, tied for Stamkos with the lead league. Crosby leads in points with 25, one behind Stamkos who has 26.

Despite a 12-6 record, the Penguins are a mere .500 team at home with a 4-4 record.

Marc Andre Fleury will likely get the start for the Pens. He has a 9-3 record this year with a 2.22 GAA

Head to Head
Goals per game: Penguins: 3.28 (2nd) Lightning: 3.88 (1st)
Goals against per game: Penguins: 2.50 (14th) Lightning: 3.06 (23rd)
save Percentage: Penguins: .909 (15th) Lightning: .902 (20th)
Power Play: Penguins: 27.4% (3rd) Lightning: 23.2% (8th)
Penalty Kill: Penguins: 83.1% (12th) Lightning: 83.9% (9th)

Around the southeast; The Panthers are home to take on the Bruins. the Jets are on the road to take on the Devils, The Canes are also on the road taking on the Islanders. The Caps are off. 

Bolts regain first place in Southeast, use hge third period to blow Hurricanes away 5-2

The first and second periods have been decent periods for the Bolts this season, but the third period is where they come to life. A four goal third period outburst fueled a 5-1 Bolts win Saturday night, their largest single period goal output of the season. Marc Andre Bergeron got the scoring started halwway through the first to make it 1-0 Tampa. The 1-0 score held up through two periods as it looked like we may have a goaltending duel on our hands. Through forty minutes Mahtieu garon had stopped all 23 shots he faced. At 2:11 of the third Benoit Pouliot gave the Bolts a 2-0 lead, seeming to maybe put the game away. But just 53 seconds later, the Canes got on the board and we all of a sudden had a one goal game again with lots of time left. Then, Lightning struck in a big way. ALex Killorn earned his first career NHL goal and just 18 seconds later Tom Pyatt tucked one in and all of a sudden the lead swelled to 4-1. Each team swapped goals late including Stammers 12th of the season for a 5-1 final.

Garon earned his second win of the season, both wins in Carolina, and ended a personal three game losing streak.

The Lightning got 39 shots on net, a great sign for a team somewhat struggling to get shots on net lately.

An incredible note provided by Rick Peckham. The Bolts PK this season is a very respectable 83.9%. However many of the goals allowed on the power play have been of the 5 on 3 variety. When its a mere one man advantage, the Bolts have killed off 41 of the past 42 penalties a staggering 97% success rate.

The Lightning improved to 6-1 this season against southeast division teams.

All is good in Hockey Bay right now as first place is ours again, hopefully for good this time. Pittsburgh tomorrow in a crucial back to back, lets sweep it.

Southeast Standings
1. Tampa Bay Lightning: 19 points
2. Carolina Hurricanes: 17 points
3.  Winnipeg Jets: 15 points
4. Florida Panthers: 14 points
5. Washington Capitals: 13 points

Game 17: Tampa Bay Lightning (8-7-1) At Carolina Hurricanes (8-6-1)

At exactly the one third mark of the season, the Lightning will face off in what is the biggest game of the season to date. The Bolts and Canes are knotted atop of the southeast division at seventeen points apiece. the winner of this game gets sole possession of that spot. It should be a bit easier for the Lightning as the Canes are completely injury riddled. Jeff Skinner, Joni Pitkanen, Jamie Mcbain, and Tim Gleason are all out for this game. Also not playing tonight is Cam Ward, who has struggled in his last two starts. Getting the start instead will be former Lightning goalie Dan Ellis. Ellis has been pretty good this year with a 1.75 GAA in four starts, three of them wins.

Matt Garon will get the start for the Bolts. He is 1-3 this season with a 3.19 GAA. His lone win was over a month ago against these same Hurricanes when the Bolts won 4-1.

It will be the second of five meetings between the Bolts and Canes this season, and second of three at RBC Center. the RBC Center is the only building the Bolts will visit three times this season.

Head to Head
Goals Per Game: Hurricanes: 2.93(7th) Lightning: 3.81 (1st)
Goals against per game: Hurricanes: 2.93 (19th) Lightning: 3.13 (25th)
Save Percentage: Hurricanes: .906 (18th) Lightning: .899 (21st)
Power Play: Hurricanes: 16.1% (20th) Lightning: 24.2% (5th)
Penalty Kill: Hurricanes: 74.6% (26th) Lightning: 83.1% (13th)

Around the southeast: The Caps already defeated the Devils today behind an Ovechkin hat trick. The Jets also already played, but they lost at Philly. The Panthers have off.

Bolts fight hard but cant overcome Bruins, fall 4-2

The Lighning played very well for most of the final 55 minutes of Thursdays game against the Bruins, but its simply extremely hard to overcome a poor start against a good team. Just 3:50 into the game the Lightning already found themselves trailing 2-0. The Bolts fought back with Stamkos' 11th of the season, and Cory Conachers sixth tied it for the Bolts 9 minutes into the second period. after all of that hard work Brad Marchand found a loose puck and slammed it into the net less than five minutes after the Bolts tied it. 2:33 into the third and Nathan Horton tipped in a puck to extend the lead to two. From there Boston locked it down defensively, giving the Bolts very little chances, and the game ended unceremoniously 4-2.

Remember when I joked before the game that the Bruins power play was so bad maybe the best strategy was to give them a power play the whole game? well the exact opposite happened. The Bruins didnt get a single power play the whole game. The Bolts had three, but didnt fare well in any of them, dropping their PP percentage below 25% for the first time all season.

We are now at the 1/3 mark of the season, and The Bolts are tied with the Canes for first place in the division, and guess who they play tomorrow? It will be a huge game in Raleigh as the winner is put on top of the division.

Southeast Standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 17 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 17 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 15 points
4. Florida Panthers: 14 points
5. Washington Capitals: 11 points

Game 16: Boston Bruins (9-2-2) At Tampa Bay Lightning (8-6-1)

A snowstorm postponed the first meeting between these two teams, Boston wont be so lucky this time. Going back to the 2011 postseason, the Bolts have won 4 straight home games against the Bruins scoring at least five goals every time. This has turned into a somewhat budding rivalry after the Eastern Conference finals matchup. I know many bolts fans like myself loathe the Bruins and their punk players like Lucic, Ference, their grotesque deformed ones like Marchand, and their fat slob coach Claude Julien, can you tell I hate the Bruins?

I want nothing more than to win this game, I was so excited for this one this morning it was like a playoff game. Bruins goalie Tuuka Rask is expected to be a breakout star this year, and has done well with a 2.06 GAA. However, the Lightning have made him their bitch in his career, winning all three games against him with a GAA of over four.

On the Bolts side, Stamkos appears to maybe be poised to go on one of his tears. He has five goals in the last 3 games.

One more lolz note, the Bruins power play is hilariously awful. The best strategy tonight might be to give them a 60 minute power play

Head to Head
Goals per game: Bruins: 2.69 (14th) Lightning: 3.93 (1st)
Goals against per game: Bruins: 2.31 (8th) Lightning: 3.07 (23rd)
Save Percentage: Bruins: .913 (11th) Lightning: .902 (19th)
Power Play: Bruins: 13.0% (26th) Lightning: 25.4% (3rd)
Penalty Kill: Bruins: 94.1% (1st) Lightning: 83.1% (13th)

Around the southeast: panthers are on the road in Philly, Canes and jets face off in Carolina, and the Caps are home to face New Jersey. 

Lightning regain top form, rake the leafs away 4-2

After finally breaking a six game losing streak, the Lightning came back home to face the hottest goalie in the NHL, and they brought him back down to earth. Ben Scrivens had shutout opponents for the last 145 minutes, a streak that reached 154 minutes before Vinny broke through and made the game 1-0. The leafs tied the game on a somewhat fluke goal in the first, but then the Bolts calmed down and got the next three making for a 4-1 lead. Toronto got one in garbage time, and the final stood at 4-2

The Lightning finally went back to the strategy that worked for them during the 2010-11 campaign when they went to the Eastern Conference finals. That strategy was a defense first, disciplined hockey game, instead of aggressively pursuing offensive opportunities, sitting back and letting them come to you, and until they come just play strong defense. This was a strategy they got away from most of last year and this year, bit fully went back to it last night. Its shown on the score sheet, where the Bolts only got off 19 shots, but I cant be mad about that because thats the type of game they tried to play. Im hoping they stick with it.

Toronto racked up 45 minutes of penalties. I never took them for such a goon squad, I thought that was reserved for Philly and Boston, but I guess Toronto wants to join them.

Stamkos netted his 10th of the season. In order to score at a 60 goal pace in a 48 game season, he'll need to net 35.

The Plus minus star in the game? Eric Brewer believe it or not with a +2

With three assists tonight Pouliot has six points in the last two games. He has definitely joined Salo as a solid pickup for the team this year.

The Lightning finally won a game when tied after one period. They had been 0-5. They are now 5-0 when leading after two periods.

The Bolts are back in a tie for first in the dvision!

Southeast standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 17 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 17 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 13 points
4. Florida Panthers: 12 points
5. Washington Capitals: 11 points

Game 15: Toronto Maple Leafs (10-6-0) At Tampa Bay Lightning (7-6-1)

The Toronto Maple Leafs come into Tampa with their best road start since world war II, and look to take another step toward ending the longest playoff drought in the NHL. The Lightning look to end a three game home losing streak after winning their first five home games of the season. Toronto is 7-2 on the road this season, their best nine game start since 1940.

the Bolts will face goalie Ben Scrivens, who has posted back to back shutouts, and has a streak of over 130 minutes without allowing a goal. Overall this season he had a 1.93 GAA in 8 starts. Pretty impressive for a backup goalie whos getting some serious time because the usual leafs starter James Reimer is out with a groin injury.

Lindback will be back in net for the Bolts. After a decent start his GAA has ballooned to 3.13, all to typical of a Lightning goalie over the past eight seasons.

The Leafs are led in the goals department by James Van Riemdyk, with 8, compared to Stamkos 9.

Im feeling a big win for out boys tonight. 3-1 Bolts prediction.

Head to Head
Goals per game: Leafs: 2.88 (8th) Lightning: 3.93 (1st)
Goals against per game: Leafs: 2.25 (7th) Lightning: 3.14 (24th)
Save Percentage: Leafs: .930 (3rd) Lightning: .901 (19th)
Power Play: Leafs: 15.5% (21st) Lightning: 26.3% (3rd)
Penalty Kill: Leafs: 81.1% (17th) Lightning: 82.1% (15th)

Around the southeast: Jets are on the road in Buffalo, everyone else in the division has the night off.

Big Ten Week 8 picks

I went 10-2 in picking big ten games last week, now standing at 60-18 through seven weeks.

Tuesday
Indiana at Michigan st: Pick: Michigan st

Wednesday
Minnesota at Ohio st: Pick: Ohio st
Wisconsin at Northwestern: Pick: Wisconsin

Thursday
Penn st at Illinois: Pick: Illinois
Iowa at Nebraska: Pick: Iowa

Sunday
Illinois at Michigan: Pick: Michigan
Michigan st at Ohio st: Pick: Ohio st
Northwestern at Purdue: Pick: Purdue

Big ten standings
1. Indiana: 11-2
2. Michigan St: 11-2
3. Wisconsin: 9-4
4. Michigan: 9-4
5. Ohio St: 8-5
6. Illinois: 6-7
7. Minnesota: 6-7
8. Iowa: 6-7
9. Purdue: 5-8
10. Northwestern: 4-9
11. Nebraska: 3-10
12. Penn St: 0-13

Another miracle comeback, but this one ends in a win. Bolts down cats 6-5 in OT

What a way to end the losing streak. A scream let out from my voice as Benoit Pouliot snatched the puck after a bounce from the boards to score in overtime. two weeks of frustration were being released in that scream. A losing streak I didn't believe was possible from a team this talented finally ended. The game itself was an entertaining back and forth affair typical of a Bolts/Cats game. Just 48 seconds into the game, Shawn Matthias tipped a puck past Lindback and the Panthers had a 1-0 lead. Rather than retreating back into crappy play, the Bolts bounced back with two goals in 2:03 and held onto the lead for a 2-1 edge after a period. A bad turnover early in the second led to a Panthers goal and a 2-2 tie, but once again the Bolts responded strongly as Stamkos regained the Bolts lead just 1:15 later. It appeared Tampa was going to take a 3-2 lead heading to the third, but let up late and allowed a goal with just four second left in the second and the game was tied heading to the third. In the third, disaster happened and the Cats scored two goals in 1:33 and had a 5-3 lead with fifteen minutes left. Here we go again, a seven game losing streak appeared on the horizon. Stamkos got the Bolts within a goal on the power play with 12:32 left with a wicked shot, but they couldnt get another and all a sudden the clock read one minute left. As the seconds ticked down Stamkos from behind the net made a beautiful pass to Purcell wide open between the circles who shot it in and tied the game with just 10 second left. In overtime Pouliot gave the Bolts a 6-5 win, a game which left me exasperated when it was over.

Stamkos got out of a slump with a pair of goals and an amazing assist. His goal in the third was an unfair filthy shot. You cant even see the puck in slow motion between the time it leaves his stick until the time it hits the net.

For once the Lightning outshot their opponet, 36-30. 36 shots is a positive sign for a team who was struggling to get shots on net.

Pouliot also picked up a multi goal game, his fourth and fifth of the season.

Alex Killorn picked up his first career NHL goal in the first period.

The game was the second time this season the Lightning won when giving up the first goal. The other time was against Philadelphia.

It was the third time this year the Lightning gave up a goal in the first minute of a game. 

We'll see where this one takes them momentum wise. Two home games on tap this week, very important to start winning home games again

Southeast standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 17 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 15 points
3. Florida Panthers: 12 points
4. Winnipeg Jets: 11 points
5. Washington Capitals: 11 points

Game 14: Tampa Bay Lightning (6-6-1) At Florida Panthers (4-6-3)

The Lightning will once again attempt to break their losing streak against their cross town rival. It will be the second of five meetings this season between the two clubs and the first of two in Sunrise. the Lightning already defeated the Panthers 5-2 this season in Tampa.

the Bolts will be facing a Panthers team that hardly scores and gives up a ton of goals, yet has found a way to win four times. They have been shut out twice in their last three games and are near last in goals per game this season in the NHL.

The Bolts will have Lindback back for this one, who is 2-0 against the Panthers in his career with 1.00 GAA. Stamkos will also hope to break out of a slump, as hes been a panthers killer lately, getting a point in six straight games against them.

Head to Head
Goals per game: Panthers: 2.23 (25th) Lightning: 3.77 (1st)
Goals against per game: Panthers: 3.62 (30th) Lightning: 3.00 (22nd)
Save Percentage: Panthers: .880 (28th) Lightning: .906 (17th)
Power Play: Panthers: 18.9% (12th) Lightning: 26.4% (5th)
Penalty Kill: Panthers: 74.5% (26th) Lightning: 81.1% (16th)

Around the southeast: No other southeast games today. A good chance for the Bolts to get withing two points of Carolina.

Losing streak hits 6 as Bolts fall to Capitals 4-3

facing the worst team in the eastern conference, at least according to the standings, the Lightning looked to be in a good position to end a long losing streak. But an early dominant power play from the Capitals set an early ominous tone, they got on the board first for a 1-0 lead. Martin St louis tied it before the period ended, but instead of getting momentum, the Bolts started to look so flat again. Just five minutes into the second, the Caps got back on top thanks to Eric Fehr, and instead of fighting to tie it, the Bolts continued to look flat. two minutes into the third Eric Fehr made it 3-1 with his second goal of the game, and it appeared to be another dissapointing game. at the 7:29 mark, Washington got a controversial goal when it appeared Garon had control of the puck and play should have been dead. the goal made it 4-1, and it seemed to be a useless goal anyway. But just like Tuesday night, Tampa decided they could finally start playing when they fell down big. with 7:58 left, Purcell made it 4-2, then with 3:13 left Nate Thompson made it 4-3 and the comeback may have been on again. A tie bid fell short however, and the losing streak hit six.

I am about to officially give up. The teams plays with no heart, emotion, or energy. Its eerily similar to the seven game losing streak last January. The streak put the Bolts from playoff contention to far out of it. Its worth noting the Bolts got out of that losing streak all right, and actually ended up gotting very hot after it and back into playoff contention.

The Bolts were outshot 39-30, another game in which they were badly outshot, its becoming an old tune.

One bright spot was St Louis, who had really been slumping as of late, had a goal, an assist, and was a plus 3 in the game.

I really dont want to talk about games that much if they keep losing, so lets just move on to the next one. Im actually happy they didnt tie this one, its unacceptable for them to think they can show up with ten minutes left in the 3rd and still win, and they need to realize they cant hope for a once in a blue moon comeback.

Southeast standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 17 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 13 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 11 points
4. Florida Pathers: 11 points
5. Washington Capitals: 11 points

Game 13: Washington Capitals (4-8-1) At Tampa Bay Lightning (6-5-1)

The Lightning and caps square off on Valentines day for the second time this season out of four, and the first time since the opening night matchup almost a month ago. the Bolts won that game 6-3 and the Capitals have been one of the most putrid teams in the league since. The caps are on a two game winning streak, before which they had a 2-9 record. The Lightning are looking to continue momentum from their 3 goal comeback.

The Caps have lost 6 in a row at the Tampa times forum

Mathieu Garon will get the start, because Anders Lindback is sick tonight.

Ovechkin has goals in 3 straight games

Head to Head
Goals per game: Capitals: 2.77 (11th) Lightning: 3.83 (1st)
Goals against per game: Capitals: 3.54 (28th) Lightning: 2.92 (21st)
Save Percentage: Capitals: .881 (26th) Lightning: .907 (16th)
Power Play: Capitals: 25.5% (5th) Lightning: 27.5 (3rd)
Penalty Kill: Capitals: 74.1% (24th) Lightning: 82.7% (13th)

Around the southeast: The Panthers are home to face the Canadiens, the Hurricanes are also home facing Toronto. The Jets have off.

Amazaing Comeback ends in dissapointment, Bolts fall in shootout 4-3.

through the first forty minutes of Tuesdays game between the Candiens and the Lighting the Bolts had played like absolute trash. They were trailing 3-0 after two periods and were playing with no energy, no heart, not hustle. They couldnt play defense, they couldnt control the puck, they couldnt get good shots, they were stunningly bad. Through the first fourteen minutes of period three the energy picked up and they were playing better, but still couldnt get a goal to fall in. With six minutes to go, and still trailing 3-0, it appeared a done deal the Bolts would continue to spiral downward to their third straight loss. I remember saying to myself, "how in the world are they going to get three past this goalie in six minutes?" then laughed and said "they're not!" Then, hope, as Hedman tipped a puck in with 5:56 left on the clock, 3-1. For the next three minutes the Bolts continued to attack, but couldnt find the net again. With two minutes left they still trailed 3-1 and once again it appeared a done deal they would lose. Then, hope, as Hedman again tipped on in with 1:43 on the clock, 3-2. The with 1:04 left, the Lightning were awarded a power play and suddenly the comeback was very much alive. 20 seconds into the power play and Sami Salo took a shot from the point that slowly trickled in with 43.3 seconds on the clock, 3-3, and an amazing comeback showing why hockey is the best sport in the world. the Bolts would lose in the shootout 1-0, but still salvaged a point in the standings, which is really all you can ask for when trailing 3-0 with six minutes left.

Lindback earned the second star with 31 saves including three or four highway robbery saves. Hes given up some goals but he has already provided plenty of moments that make your eyes pop out of your head in amazement.

Hedman earned the first star with two goals. I believe Rick Peckham said it was the first multi goal game of his career, but Im havent looked up if that is the case, nor am I going to. Congrats either way

Brewer was a -2, the worst on the team. His traffic cone defense is back baby

This is as good as you can possibly feel after a loss. Hopefully this comeback will spark a resurgence and a nice winning streak. The Bolts are no longer in first within the division but very much within striking distance.

Another sellout at the forum. 7 for 7

Edit: I have confirmed it is the first multi goal game of Hedmans career, which is really surprising to me. Better late than never I guess.

Southeast Standings
1. Carolina Hurricanes: 15 points
2. Tampa Bay Lightning: 13 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 11 points
4. Florida Panthers: 10 points
5. Washington Capitals: 9 points

Game 12: Montreal Canadiens (6-4-1) At Tampa Bay Lightning (6-5-0)

The Lightning return home Tuesday night hoping to regain their scoring touch that has left them. It will begin a stretch of four of five games at home, with the only roadie in the litter box Saturday afternoon. The Canadiens meanwhile will be playing their first game since their humiliating 6-0 defeat at the hands of the Maple Leafs Saturday night. The Canadiens racked up 65 minutes of penalties in that game, their most in two seasons.

The Bolts have averaged a mere 1.50 goals per game over their four game losing streak. Despite this they still lead the league in scoring illustrating just how hot their offense had been at the beginning of the season. They are also giving up an alarming 3.50 goals per game during the losing streak.

One of these two teams is going to be relieved for a win, as Montreal is on their own three game losing streak. Carey price, who is having a nice season with a 2.21 GAA has not fared well lately against the Bolts, going 1-4 with a 3.10 GAA in his last five against them.

Its hard not to imagine Lindback getting the start in this one after Garons rough start Sunday that got him pulled.

One player to keep an eye on will be Montreals Erik Cole, who has 10 goals and 12 assists in sixteen career games against the Lightning.

Head to Head
Goals per game: Montreal: 2.82 (11th) Tampa Bay: 3.91 (1st)
Goals against per game: Montreal: 2.64 (15th) Tampa Bay: 2.91 (21st)
Save Percentage: Montreal: .907 (17th) Tampa Bay: .908 (18th)
Power Play: Montreal: 22.0% (11th) Tampa Bay: 28.3% (2nd)
Penalty Kill: Montreal: 81.0% (16th) Tampa Bay: 82.2% (12th)

Around the southeast: The canes are in New Jersey to take on the Devils, the Caps and Panthers face each other in Sunrise, and the Jets are home against Philly.

Losing streak hit four as Rangers down Lightning 5-1

About ten minutes into the first period of Sundays game against the Rangers it was already clear this was not the Lightnings not. Carl Hagelin put the Rangers on top 1-0 just 31 seconds into the game, then the Bolts had four odd man rushes early, 3 two on ones and a breakaway, and Lundqvist stopped every one of them. It was apparent Henrik was on top of his game and the Bolts would need to hope they could put a couple past him and not allow anymore. That didnt happen as late in the second period an awful turnover led to an easy Ryan Callahan goal and a 2-0 lead. Carl Hagelin sneaked one past Garon halfway through the second for a 3-1 lead, a goal that got garon pulled. After the Lightning got one back, Aaron Asham provided the dagger with 7:38 left for a 4-1 lead. Rick Nash tacked one on with 9 seconds left to put salt in the wound and a 5-1 final was had.

I really have to question why Boucher started Garon. Lindback had two nights rest and Garon faced the Rangers last week. Why not make them face someone new? Why put your backup in with your team on a 3 game losing streak needing a win? I cant find any justification in it.

Once again the Bolts struggled mightily to get shots on net, only putting on 20 and only 4 in the third period. They averaged a pathetic 20.3 shots per game on the road trip.

The worst part of this losing streak is the Bolts have played worse in every successive game. This was by far the worst performance of the season and there is really no excuse for it on two nights rest.

Alex Killorn picked up an assist in his first game since being called up from the minors. The first point of his career.

Thank goodness the Bolts are coming back home. The next six games are very winnable, four home games and two roadies againt mediocre teams, hopefully they can get back on track. And they are still in first, but if the canes win tonight they wont be any longer.

Southeast Standings
1. Tampa Bay Lightning: 12 points
2. Carolina Hurricanes: 11 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 11 points
4. Florida Panthers: 9 points
5. Washington Capitals: 7 points

Big Ten Week 7 picks

I went 7-4 in picking games this week, now standing at 50-16 through six weeks. Just four weeks left in the conference season and its an incredibly exciting race.

Tuesday
Michigan at Michigan st: Pick: Michigan st

Wednesday
Nebraska at Indiana: Pick: Indiana
Purdue at Illinois: Pick: Illinois

Thursday
Northwestern at Ohio st: Pick: Ohio st
Wisconsin at Minnesota: Pick: Wisconsin
Iowa at Penn st: Pick: Iowa

Saturday
Purdue at Indiana: Pick: Indiana
Michigan st at Nebraska: Pick: Michigan st

Sunday
Penn st at Michigan: Pick: Michigan
Ohio st At Wisconsin: Pick: Wisconsin
Minnesota at Iowa: Pick: Iowa
Illinois at Northwestern: Pick: Northwestern

Big Ten Standings
1. Indiana: 9-2
2. Michigan st: 9-2
3. Wisconsin: 8-3
4. Michigan: 8-3
5. Ohio St:  7-4
6. Minnesota: 5-6
7. Purdue: 5-6
8. Illinois: 4-7
9. Iowa: 4-7
10. Northwestern: 4-7
11. Nebraska: 3-8
12. Penn St: 0-11

Game 11: Tampa Bay Lightning (6-4-0) at New York Rangers (5-5-0)

Game eleven was supposed to be last night against Boston, but the game was postponed due to the snow storm. So my work on last nights preview went to waste and now this is game eleven, the Rangers for the second time in eight days. The Rangers began the Lightnings three game losing streak and hopefully they will end it.

The Rangers have also played two games since the last time these two met, they beat the Islaners 4-1 and lost to the Devils 3-1 in those two games.

Its likely that Henrik Lundqvist will get the start for the Rangers, and also likely Lindback will get the start for the Bolts meaning the goaltending matchup will be completely different than it was last week. Lundqvist has a subpar by his standards 2.61 GAA in nine starts this season.

This is the first of two meeting at the Madison Square Garden this season. The Bolts have fared rather well in this building compared to how theyve fared in others like Nassau Colliseum or Td Banknorth Arena. Its likely the ice will be chippy because the Knicks are playing a home game there as we speak so the ice will be layed just a couple hours before the game.

Head to Head
Goals Per game: Rangers: 2.40 (22nd) Lightning: 4.20 (1st)
Goals against per game: Rangers: 2.60 (12th) Lightning: 2.70 (18th)
Shots per game: Rangers: 28.5 (17th) Lightning: 27.4 (23rd)
Shots against per game: Rangers: 29.0 (18th) Lightning: 30.9 (25th)
Save Percentage: 91.0% (14th) Lightning: 91.3% (11th)
Power Play: 10.8% (28th) Lightning: 29.5% (2nd)
Penalty Kill: 80.4% (16th) Lightning: 81.0% (14th)

Around the southeast
The Bolts are the only team in the division in action tonight. hopefully they can get some seperation because the Canes and Jets are closing in on the Bolts once large lead.

Losing streak continues as Devils defeat Lightning 4-2

It was one of those games where the Lightning were going to have to overcome the opposition and the refs. It was also a game where the Lightnings shorthanded goals against demons came back to haunt them. With under three minutes to go in the second period and a one to one game the Lightning went to the power play with a great chance to get the lead heading to the third.  They did just the opposite, a turnover led to a two on one for the Devils and Ilya Kovalchuk went low glove side for the 2-1 lead heading to the third. with the Lightning fighting for the tying goal late in the third, St Louis went off on a penalty with 6:31 left. Then eighteen seconds later Adam Hall was called for high sticking in what was undoubtedly the worst call of the season in a Lightning game so far. It was not only not a penalty on Hall, it was clearly a penalty on the Devils player. Instead of a 4 on 4 it was a long 5 on 3 for the devils, and the usually calm Guy Boucher was as furious as Id ever seen him. He was called for unsportsmanlike conduct because of it and now the 5 on 3 would be even longer, essentially ending the game. The Devils easily scored two goals in 14 second with a two man advantage to extend the lead to 4-1, the final was 4-2.

The penalty call on Hall was really atrocious and the outcome of this game could have been much different with two minutes of 4 on 4 time which it should have been. The loss for the Bolts makes it three in a row.

The Power play was really struggling in this game as the Bolts finished 0/4. They also only managed 19 shots. the once high flying offense has 5 goals in the past 3 games, two of which have been garbage time goals. The team still averages 4.2 GPG though, and is still number one in the league in that category. The Bolts are also still number one in the league in goal differential at +15

The Bolts better find a way to gain some wins on the road. Luckily the division this year is awful so they should be able to win it even with a subpar road record. One final note, this hilarious video of Guy Boucher mimicking the refs surfaced last night. I honestly never saw him as furious as he was last night, and rightfully so.

http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21664764/gif-of-the-night-guy-boucher-channels-innerrobert-de-niro

Southeast standings
1. Tampa Bay Lightning: 12 points
2. Carolina Hurricanes: 10 points
3. Winnipeg Jets: 9 points
4. Florida Panthers: 9 points
5. Washington Capitals: 5 points

Game 10: Tampa Bay Lightning (6-3-0) At New Jersey Devils (5-1-3)

The Lightning take their two game losing streak into New Jersey looking for their first win since Friday night. The Devils meanwhile have been of to a pleasantly surprising start, losing only one game in regulation and have earned at least a point in all four of their home games. The Devils are the defending eastern conference champions, but few expect them to repeat that success this season, many experts even expect them to miss the playoffs. The ageless Martin Brodeur has been impressive with a 2.52 GAA, and so has backup Johan Hedberg who in limited time has a 0.48 GAA. We have documented how the Lightning have dominated some of their recent opponents the last few years, and been dominated by others. Their was their bad record against Ottawa, and great records against winnipeg and Philly. Unfortunately the Devils are a team that has beat up on the Bolts the last few years. New Jersey has won 16 of the past 19 games against the Bolts.

Anders Lindback will be between the pipes for the Bolts, who has an average 2.73 GAA for the season, but a more impressive 2.04 GAA over his past four starts. Hopefully he can keep up the success hes been having tonight.

The Lightning are 0-3 this season in one goal games and 6-0 in games decided by more than two goals. While their ability to blow out teams has been impressive, they will need to find a way to win the close ones also.

The Devils offense has been led by surprise David Clarkson whose 7 goals match the output of Steven Stamkos. Stamkos by the way, is celebrating his 23rd birthday today. 

Head to Head
Goals Per game: Devils: 2.56 (16th) Lightning: 4.44 (1st)
Goals against per game: Devils: 2.11 (5th) Lightning: 2.56 (12th)
Shots per game: Devils: 26.3 (28th) Lightning: 28.3 (19th)
Shots against per game: Devils: 27.0 (6th) Lightning: 31.3 (25th)
Save percentage: Devils: .922 (7th) Lightning: .918 (10th)
Power Play: Devils: 15.8% (19th) Lightning: 32.5% (2nd)
Penalty Kill: Devils: 86.7% (7th) Lightning: 84.2% (10th)

Around the southeast: The Caps head into Pittsburgh to face the Penguins who just beat them a few days ago. Carolina goes into Ottawa to play the Senators and Florida plays the Flyers in Philly. The Jets are the only southeast team playing at home tonight as they are facing the Maple Leafs.

Tom Sestitos two goals help Flyers beat Bolts 2-1

Coming into Tuesdays game between the Lightning and Flyers Tom sestito had three career goals, and none since December 23rd 2010, over two years. Tuesday night he had two and they were the only two for the Flyers in a 2-1 win. It doesnt matter that he was fed beautifully for both goals and was basically in a one on one situation for both of them, what matters is he got them. The Lightning meanwhile, has had their high flying offense slow down the past two games, which was inevitable, but still a little alarming when you look at the stats tonight.

Only 22 shots on net, including no real good chances on a power play late. They just didnt want to shoot on that power play and really wasted a lot of time passing and ended up with nothing of substance.

0 for 4 on the power play. Having the number on power play in the league coming in, this was another stat that was inevitably going to come down, but the power play was a heavy dissapointment tonight.

Two odd man rushes in the second period that yielded zero shots. One had a pass tipped on a two one one, the other a whiffed shot.

Benoit Puliot was the lone goal scorer for the Lightning, in the third period with a beautiful feed from Purcell.

St Louis seemed unwilling to shoot the puck late in the game at a time where you just need to shoot at the net and see what happens. It was frustrating to see.

Purcell ended up with an assist, but his performance the rest of the night was very subpar.

Matt Carle had a chance to feed stamkos as the final seconds dwindled for one last shot but the pass was very poor and Stamkos never got a shot off. A microcosm of the whole night.

Still in first in the division

Southeast Standings:
1. Tampa Bay Lightning: 12 points
2. Winnipeg Jets: 9 points
3. Carolina Hurricanes: 8 points
4. Florida Panthers: 7 points
5. Washington Capitals: 5 points

Game 9: Tampa Bay Lightning (6-2-0) At Philadelphia Flyers (3-6-0)

The Lightning have gotten off to a red hot start to the season, but most of it has been within the friendly confines of their home rink. now they take their explosive offense on the road to see if they can continue their success. Winning on the road was what prevented the Bolts from making a return trip to the playoffs last year, as they won just 13 games on the road. This year so far they are 1-1 and are about to embark on a four game road trip that will tell us a bit more about how serious this team is about contending this year. Up first, the rival Flyers for the second of third meetings and the only meeting in Philly this year. The Bolts disposed of the Flyers 5-1 just over a week ago, and held them scoreless over the last 59 minutes of the game. Despite the Flyers dissapointing 3-6 record they still have a winning record at home, at 2-1.

These two teams normally give us at least one classic a year. Two years ago it was the 8-7 thriller, last year it was the 2-1 overtime game where Philly famously stalled for the whole first period in defiance of the Lightnings defensive system. So be prepared for a possible thrilling matchup tonight. The Bolts are 7-2 in their past 9 against the Flyers.

Head to Head
Goals Per Game: Flyers: 2.33 (22nd) Lightning: 4.88 (1st)
Goals against per game: Flyers: 2.89 (19th) Lightning: 2.63 (15th)
Shots per game: Flyers: 27.3 (25th) Lightning: 29.1 (16th)
Shots against per game: Flyers: 29.6 (16th) Lightning: 32.3 (26th)
Save Percentage: Flyers: .902 (18th) Lightning: .919 (9th)
Power Play: Flyers: 18.6% (16th) Lightning: 36.1% (1st)
Penalty Kill: Flyers: 73.8 (24th) Lightning: 83.3% (10th)

Around the Southeast: The Panthers play The Jets in Winnipeg in a division matchup and the Caps are at home the face the Maple Leafs. The Hurricanes have off after winning yesterday.

Big Ten Week 6 Picks

I went a perfect 11-0 picking games this week, now standing at 43-12 halfway through the Big Ten season.

Tuesday
Purdue at Penn St: Pick: Penn st
Ohio st at Michigan: Pick: Michigan

Wednesday
Minnesota at Michigan st: Pick: Michigan st
Iowa at Wisconsin: Pick: Wisconsin

Thursday
Indiana at Illinois: Pick: Indiana

Saturday
Michigan at Wisconsin: Pick: Wisconsin
Northwestern at Iowa: Pick: Iowa
Michigan st at Purdue: Pick: Purdue
Penn st at Nebraska: Pick: Nebraska

Sunday
Indiana at Ohio st: Pick: Indiana
Illinois at Minnesota: Pick: Minnesota

Standings
1. Indiana: 8-1
2. Michigan: 7-2
3. Michigan st: 7-2
4. Ohio st: 7-2
5. Wisconsin: 6-3
6. Minnesota: 5-4
7. Purdue: 4-5
8. Northwestern: 4-6
9. Iowa: 3-7
10. Illinois: 2-7
11. Nebraska: 2-8
12. Penn St: 0-9

Win streak ends as Bolts fall 3-2

Sometimes when everything is going right and your team is hot as the sun you forget that other teams are good to and you will inevitably eventually lose. The Rangers are the most talented team in the Eastern Conference and despite their .500 record are still considered the favorites to win the conference. After a tough grinding first period in which both teams moved up and down the ice but couldnt sustain a consistent attack, the Lightning finally drew first blood on the power play, but the Rangers went on to score the next three goals and threw the dagger with about five minutes left on a weak goal that sneaked through Garons legs for a 3-1 lead. Stamkos got the Bolts to within a goal at 3-2 with 21 seconds left, and the Lightning made one final charge to tie it, but a shot at the buzzer hit Lecavalier in the leg, and fluttered away from the net as the buzzer sounded. To add insult, Lecavalier appeared to be badly hurt on the play and a xray is expected tomorrow.

The fact is the Bolts had plenty of chances tonight , but they just werent going in the net. It happens. Its going to happen. guess what? theyre still winning the division by more than a full game and are still the best offense in the league. They need to find a way to split this tough upcoming road trip in my opinion, anything less would be concerning.

Steven Stamkos tacked on two more goals and now has a point in all eight games this season.

In what will be an important stat to keep track of this season, the Bolts are now 1-1 in the second game of back to backs. This is the only second game of a back to back this year at home. The next one will be next Sunday against the Rangers again at MSG

It was the sixth sellout in six home games this year. Anyone who says we dont love hockey in Florida and dont deserve an NHL team can suck it.

their was six combined penalty minutes in the game, it was a clean entertaining hockey game. It was about as hockey a hockey game as their can possibly be, if that makes sense.

Onto the next one in filthydelphia

Southeast Standings
1. Tampa Bay Lightning: 12 points
2. Winnipeg Jets: 7 points
3. Carolina Hurricanes: 6 points
4. Washington Capitals: 5 points
5. Florida Panthers: 4 points

Game 8: New York Rangers (3-4-0) At Tampa Bay Lightning (6-1-0)

A scorching hot start to the season has got Bolts fans pumped about the prospects of this years team, and tonight they begin a five game stretch that will tell us more just how serious this team is about contending this year. There is no doubt tonights game against the Rangers will be the toughest test of the season so far. Despite their slow start to the season the Rangers are still the odds on favorite to win the Eastern conference this year, and have the best goalie in the league between the pipes. So how will the best offense in the league fare against the best goalie in the league? Im excited to find out, and history says pretty well.  Ludqvist has a subpar by his standards 2.79 GAA in his last seven starts against the Bolts, and a 1-6 record to go with it. I cant really blame some people for being a tad skeptical for the Lightnings start, only three of the first six wins came against playoff potential teams, and two of those three teams played their backup goalie against the Bolts. The other one, the Caps, is off to an ice cold start. Still, 5.3 GPG sustained over a seven game stretch is simply stunning and can not be overlooked.

There is no doubt part of the improvement from this year over last year is the defensive improvement. Sami Salo and Matt Carle were huge additions and have really shored up the defensive ineptitude. Not to mention last years duds Eric Brewer and Victor Hedman have stepped up their games in a major way this year.

Matt Garon will be earning just his second start of the season, his first being ten days ago at Carolina when he allowed just one goal in a 4-1 Bolts win. This will be Garons first home start since March 8th when he pulled his groin and was lost for the season.

One of the biggest differences between these two teams this year have been the power play. The Rangers have managed only 3 PP goals, while the Bolts have put up 12 after their three last night. Obviously if you get dominated in the special teams category, you are not winning many games. The Rangers have a special team index of just 91.3 while the Lightnings special team index is 116.7, a massive difference.

Im not one into giving predictions for hockey games because they are often so unpredictable but I have a gut feeling this game will go to overtime, probably at 2, but maybe at 3. Just a feeling. Obviously playing the Rangers is always a bit emotional for Bolts fans as the Rangers head coach is John Tortella who coached the Lightning to their Stanley Cup, and the Rangers also feature Brad Richards who was the MVP of the Playoffs for the Lightning when they won the cup.

Head to Head
Goals Per Game: Rangers: 2.29 (22nd in NHL) Lightning: 5.29 (1st in NHL by a huge margin)
Goals Against Per Game: Rangers: 2.86 (18th in NHL) Lightning 2.57 (11th in NHL)
Shots per game: Rangers: 29.3 (14th in NHL) Lightning: 28.7 (18th in NHL)
Shots against per game: Rangers: 29.7 (18th in NHL) Lightning: 32.6 (24th in NHL)
Save Percentage: Rangers: .904 (15th in NHL) Lightning: .921 (8th in NHL)
Power play: Rangers: 10.7% (26th in NHL) Lightning: 34.3 (3rd in NHL)
Penalty Kill: Rangers: 80.6% (15th in NHL) Lightning: 82.4 (11th in NHL)

Around the southeast: The only other southeast team in action tonight is the Hurricanes who are in Philly to face the Flyers. 

Lightning eviscerate, destroy, rape, Thrash, insert word implying domination here Jets 8-3

Seven minutes into Friday nights contest between the Jets and the Lightning and it looked like the Jets may have a shot at keeping the Bolts offense under control. At this point Tampa had only managed one shot and no real chances and had possession of the puck in their offensive zone for very little time. then, the parade to the penalty box started, and the offensive attack was on. The Bolts rode the power play to a quick 3-0 lead after one, then found some holes in a shoddy Jets defense for 3 more early in the second and had a 6-0 lead built less than halfway through the game. The Lightning let up on the peddle a bit in the third, allowing three Jets goals, but still managed to get the last blow in when Puliot tipped the puck in the net with 1:25 left for a final score of 8-3.

This was a total team effort, there was honestly 10 number one stars tonight. But the official number one star went to Conacher hos continues his Calder cup campaign with two goals and an assist, now five goals on the year.

The 8 goals is tied for the most Ive ever seen them score in person. The other time was against the Jets, but when they were the Thrashers in 2002. The Bolts won that game 8-5.

Theres not much else to say about this one except this team continues to give the league a reason to get noticed, yet continues to fly under the radar. Aside from the second periods against the Islanders and Senators the Lightning have utterly dominated every other minute this season. Theres no doubt this is the best team since the cup season, the question is whether or not this team is better than the cup team? They have potential, but they need to prove they can win big road games first, which is why Im very much eager to see how theyll fare on the upcoming road trips in tough cities like New Jersey, Philly,and Boston.

3 stars standings
Cory Conacher: 8 points
Mathieu Garon: 2 points
Vincent Lecavalier: 8 points
Martin St Louis: 5 points
Ryan Malone: 3 points
Sami Salo: 4 points
Dana Tyrell: 1 point
Tom Pyatt: 2 points
Steven Stamkos: 3 points
Eric Brewer: 1 point


Southeast Standings
1. Lightning: 12 points
2. Winnipeg Jets: 7 points
3. Carolina Hurricanes: 6 points
4. Washington Capitals: 5 points
5. Florida Panthers: 4 points

Game 7: Winnipeg Jets (3-3-1) At Tampa Bay Lightning (5-1-0)

Off to their best start since their magical stanley cup season eight years ago, the Bolts face a team whom they have dominated over the past three season, and who has struggled mightily on the road overall during the same stretch. The Jets won only fourteen road games in their first season in Winnipeg, a stark contrast to their 23 home wins. Now the 2013 season is starting out much the same way for the Jets who sport a 1-3 road record compared to a 2-1 home record. That includes allowing a five goal third period on the road against the Panthers last night, who were the worst offensive team in the league before the outburst. So the question is if the worst offense in the NHL can score that much against the Jets number one goalie, how many goals can the best offense in the NHL put up against the Jets backup goalie? That is assuming backup Al Montoya gets the start, but even if Pavalec gets the nod, how effective will he be starting on back to back nights, and is his career 3-10 record against the Bolts worth giving him the nod? Montoya has started one game this year and got the win, but allowed four goals on only 25 shots.

Meanwhile the Bolts goaltending has been nothing short of stellar over the past two games, with a 1.5 GAA in those two games, and the simple fact that all three goals have been very fluky goals. The Lightning haven't allowed a "legitimate" goal since the second period against Ottawa. Lindbacks season stats are up to 4-1 with a 2.8 GAA and .914 save percentage. The question is will Lindback get the nod tonight? Its pretty much a guarantee Garon will start one of the next two games, and it wouldnt shock me in the least if it was tonight. Saving Lindback for tomorrow against the much tougher Rangers would certainly be a nod of confidence in his favor.

Then there's the Lightnings dominance over the Jets/Thrashers over the past few seasons. The Bolts are 14-3 over this franchise over the past seventeen games, including 8-0-1 at home. it doesnt matter what city they play in, the Bolts always play well against this team. I am personally attending this game (and tomorrow nights) and the Lightning have played simply stunning lately in games ive gone to. they are 13-2 in the last 15 games Ive gone to, and 9-1 in the last ten, scoring 3.7 GPG in those 15 games. Im feeling another win tonight, but tomorrow, another game Im attending, is going to be the toughest game of the season to date, we'll see what that one holds. One more not, Since San Jose offense has cooled considerably, the Lightning lead the league in goals per game by almost a full goal (4.83 to 3.86 for second place San Jose)

Head to Head
Goals per game: Jets: 3.00 (10th in NHL) Lightning: 4.83 (1st in NHL)
Goals against per game: 3.29 (24th in NHL) Lightning: 2.50 (9th in NHL)
Shots per game: Jets: 29.6 (13th in NHL) Lightning: 29.3 (15th in NHL)
Shots against per game: Jets: 31.1 (21st in NHL) Lightning: 33.2 (27th in NHL)
Save Percentage: Jets: 89.4 (23rd in NHL) Lightning: 92.5 (4th in NHL)
Power Play: Jets: 20% (14th in NHL) Lightning: 30% (5th in NHL)
Penalty Kill: Jets: 63.6% (30th in NHL) Lightning: 86.7% (5th in NHL)

Around the southeast: The last place in the entire eastern conference powerhouse Washington Capitals head home to face the Flyers after another hilarious 3rd period meltdown yesterday against Toronto. The Hurricanes are also home to face Ottawa. Florida has off after tiring out the Jets for us last night.