The first period between the Lightning and Devils may have been boring, but Tampa Bay fans are likely wishing the second period could have been just as boring. Instead, the Devils gave Lighting fans some unwelcome excitement; they scored three times and now lead the Bolts 3-0.
In what’s becoming an all too common occurrence, the Tampa Bay Lightning’s defense is letting them down. They are missing Mattias Ohlund badly, as he is their best defensive player and he’s missed the entire season with a knee injury. Coming into tonight, the Bolts had allowed in total four more goals than they had scored…and that ratio hasn’t gotten any better so far.
The Devils’ first goal was nearly a short handed goal, but missed by a matter of seconds; it was short handed in all but name. After that, the Bolts shot themselves in the foot by committing four penalties and allowing two power play goals.
It’s still possible for the Lightning to come back, and they did manage to go shot-for-shot with the Devils in the second period despite all their penalties. They’ll need to tighten up their game, though, and hope their defense has a better period.
To join in the conversation about this game and talk with fellow fans, check out the Gamethread on SB Nation’s blog for the Lightning, Raw Charge.