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After losing two of their first three games, the Tampa Bay Lightning are in New York tonight for a matchup against the Islanders. While the Islanders have started the season slowly as well, going 1-1 so far, they gave the Lightning trouble last season despite coming in last in their division. They took three out of four games between the clubs, so the Lightning can't expect to simply roll through them with no problems.
Not to mention, the Lightning have not been playing their best hockey yet. Their roster is largely the same as last season, but they have taken some time to re-familiarize themselves with coach Boucher's unique 1-3-1 setup. Their defense has particularly suffered, and the Bolts can't expect to receive a boost from assistant captain Mattias Ohlund anytime soon; he recently had knee surgery and will be out at least a month and a half. Victor Hedman is going to need to step up big in his absence.
Tonight's game will be the Lightning's last game in the North East for now, as their next game is down in Miami against their division (and local) rival Florida Panthers. After that, the Lightning will have their home opener on Monday, also against the Panthers.
Where: Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, New York
When: 7 PM EDT
Coverage: Sun Sports, 620 WDAE
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