Both teams came out tentative, kind of just feeling each other out. Florida managed only one shot on goal during the first 10 minutes of the period, looking mostly sluggish and unimpressive. Tampa Bay did not have any shots after the 10 minute mark. For the first period, Florida totalled five shots and the Lightning managed seven.
Twice Florida went on the power play against the Bolts, but could not solve goaltender Mathieu Garon.
Tampa Bay is winning the battle of the hits, collecting 12 against only four for Florida. The Panthers are not traditionally big hitters this season, instead going for the puck when a hit would be easier.
The first line looks a little tired, but Jack Skille, Michal Repik and Evgeny Dadonov are all really charging the puck tonight. Tune in to what should be a more exciting second period.