When the Lightning lost to the Canadiens on Saturday, their competitors for the Southeast Division title – the Washington Capitals – looked strong against the Florida Panthers, winning 3-2. Their victory coupled with the Lightning’s loss was enough to move the Capitals up in the standings, one point ahead of the Lightning.
With a victory tonight, the Lightning could reclaim first place from the Capitals while evening up the season series between the two teams. The Lightning are in a recent slide, though, and have lost the last four games in a row and have blown their lead in the Southeast Division.
Here’s what John Fontana from Raw Charge has to say about tonight’s game:
Michal Neuvirth made the start last night for the Capitals against the Panthers, stopping 32 shots and getting the win. Dwayne Roloson will undoubtedly be in net for the Lightning, and how couldn’t he be? While going 2-2-0 against the Caps this season (with both the Lightning and the New York Islanders), his .GAA is 1.50 and he has a .949 save percentage
The Capitals, for their offensive prowess, have the 24th ranked power play unit in the league, converting on 16 percent of opportunities. The Lightning are tied for 6th in the league, with a 20.3 conversion rate. On the flip side, the Capitals penalty kill is one of the best in the NHL. The Caps have stopped 85.4% of opposing power plays, ranking them 4th in the league. The Lightning, on the other hand, are stopping 82.5% of opposition power plays — 15th in the NHL.