MONTREAL, QC - The Tampa Bay Lightning got a much needed win Monday night against the Toronto Maple Leafs, a game highlighted by long-lost secondary scoring. Unlikely goal scorers Mattias Ritola and Nate Thompson powered the Bolts to a 6-2 victory in Toronto, starting the three game Canadian swing on the right track. Now, after spending three off days practicing in Montreal, the Bolts must figure out a way to crack goalie Carey Price and the Canadiens at the Bell Center.
The Montreal Canadiens (38-25-7) are currently sitting in sixth place in the Eastern conference, just five points behind the fifth place Lightning, so for the Bolts holding off the Habs will be critical. The Bolts are also looking to regain their standing in the southeastern division, where they now trail the surging Washington Capitals by 5 points.
For the Bolts, solving the Price Puzzle will be the first task. Carey Price was masterful against the Lightning in the last meeting at the St. Pete Times Forum, stopping 42 shots in the 4-2 Candiens victory. Dwanye Roloson must also play better for the Lightning, as he has struggled against Montreal this year, losing three of four against the Habs.
Canadiens leading scorer Tomas Plekanec may not play tonight, after leaving Tuesdays home loss to Washington with a lower body injury.