Tag Search Results for "Lightning"
Ok, Devils and Rangers listen up. We, as northern fans, demand nothing less than a swift and orderly removal of the Lightning and Thrashers from the playoffs! Anything less is unacceptable.
Nothing against the fans in Atlanta and TB. I'm sure they are very nice people. It's just that the Cup CAN NOT spend another summer in the South East! It needs to reside in a le...
Tampa's going to SPOOK the devils tonight. 4-2 probably.
NYR vs. ATL will be as exciting as the build up was for PIT vs. OTT. Then look what happened, the upper seed played like the upper seed. Kovi and crew, do yer thang!
Buffalo -- Score lots, rack up d'em points, my pool entries are count'in on it. Just another day at the office for Vanek and co.
And then t...
Living in New York as a Lightning fan is a very interesting experience. Unless you fly down to Tampa, you're never in the majority (not even at Islander games), and you're met with such questions as "Are you [i]from [/i] Tampa?" and "Couldn't you like one of the [i]local [/i] teams?" I guess that type of question is to be expected.
So last night, my dad and I made ...
Before yesterday's atrocity, Marty Brodeur had played in 153 NHL playoff games. Out of those 153 games, he had 89 victories, and 21 shutouts. Over that time, he had a 1.88 goals against average.
We on the other hand, had Holmqvist, Denis, and Ramo. Before the game began, they had combined for all of 0 NHL playoff games, 0 wins, and 0.00 save percentage.
Very c...
Some doubted his size, others his age. Some doubted he warranted the contract he earned with an MVP season in 2004 and whether he could live up to those numbers the contract dictated.
Martin St. Louis has been doubted his entire career - some will never learn.
St. Louis scored a goal Saturday night against one of the best goalies in hockey. It wasn't just any goal. H...
The premise that I've been hoping for and building on thus far in the Canucks/Stars series is that the Canucks should have another level to play. That came through yesterday in the 3rd and OT period as the Canucks dominated the puck and offensive chances. Shots were 18 vs. 9 in those periods combined.
The Dallas Stars are just the Dallas Stars. You know what to expec...
Vincent Lecavalier, Brad Richards, and Martin St. Louis. The Tampa Bay Lightning's Big 3.
Before the series with New Jersey, one of the best defensive teams in hockey, the story regarding the Lightning was "What's Tampa Bay going to do when New Jersey shuts down their main line - where will the scoring come from?".
Funny thing happend on the way to answering that que...
> Congratulations to [url=http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?page=PlayerDetail&playerId=8449545&service=page]Scott Mellanby[/url] on a very good career. Mellanby [url=http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/story/2007/04/23/mellanby-retirement.html?ref=rss]announced his retirement[/url] after 21 seasons in the NHL. He finishes with 364 goals and 476 assists for 840 regular sea...
Well, typically it takes a little time into the off-season, usually some time after the Cup Finals for it to get started. It even may last until just around the draft...but rest assured - before we hit July - Eklund and other hockey rumor mongers will have Vincent Lecavalier wearing the sweater of the Habs, St. Louis in St. Louis and Brad Richards somewhere else.
I like...
Nemmy700 writes...
Because teams from non-traditional markets deserve better.
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
There are two types of hockey fans, those that are irked at the concept of a Southern team winning a cup (ie. Carolina, Tampa, Dallas, to name a few) and those that aren't.
As a hockey fan, I'm tired of hearing what team "deserves" to win the cup based on the amount of fans a team has, or how devoted these said fans may be. This is professional sports. The NHL, as is ...
Chris Gratton was dealt to the Tampa Bay Lightning for a 2nd round pick in 07, or 08(Florida's option) according to TSN. This deal gives the Lightning some much needed depth at center and clears 1.5 million of cap space for Florida which will further fuel rumors that they are going to make a pitch for a big name UFA.
Monty Python continues to amuse me.
However, I shall write about what every other blogger on this website is most interested in: the free agent mania that swept the hockey world yesterday. I will talk about the big deals (ie Gomez, Briere) but my focus is on the smaller names.
Briere (PHI)-This was an interesting move by Holmgren. Especially the length. After seeing Rick...
Today (Day 2) of free agency was suppose to be a day for Oiler fans to look forward to possible UFA signings. After a long day of almost all the Tier 2 UFA signed the oilers are left the same as Day 1. The day started off very strange with the deal that was suppose to be done in Nylander turning out to be nothing more then a lost deal with Nylander signing in Washington.
...
Brad Lukowich signed a 3 year deal with the Lightning as reported by TSN.com. This is Lukowich's second stint with the Lightning.
***This article is featured at newyorkislanders.com as the debut article for the innovative NYI Blog Box!!! See it there at [url]http://islanders.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=328634&page=NewsPage&service=page[/url] !!!***
All of us throughout Islander nation have been holding our collective breath waiting for a monumental signing since the opening of “Free Agency Frenzy...
The Tampa bay Lightning may not have made the big moves during the off-season but that doesn't mean they didn't make good moves. In my opinion the lightning improved on every line and on defense. the first line improves just by vinny and marty having career years. the second line improves by michael quellet and jan hlavac. quellet is a very good goal scorer and hlavac ...
Greetings, I lost my login info and couldn't figure out what it was!
But now that I have, I'm back and I'll be blogging more than ever about my favorite team, the Tampa Bay Lightning!
Despite rumors to the contrary, I called it! I knew the Lightning would not move any of the big 4. I am however, a bit disappointed that Tampa did not go out and find a solid Goaltender...
I watched Detroit and Tampa Bay today. Here are my notes from the game:
- I never got to watch much of the Lecavalier/St. Louis show last year but hopefully that will change this year with my purchase of NHL Center Ice. It is the end of the 2nd and Marty already has 2 beauty goals. Vinny didn't play but the telecast made up for it by showing all of his 52 goals last yea...
Perhaps my Islander pal B.D. Gallof will chime in on this issue, but as I simultaneously watched both the Red Wings/Lightning and Rangers/Islanders games last night, I had a passing thought that made more than a little sense (I know ... crazy ... but it does happen sometimes!)
Having lost Dan Boyle for at least the first month of the regular season and in dire need of s...
We're reaching the stretch-run; it's time for Part 5 of my 6 part series on the new jerseys. So far, we've discussed the Northeast, Northwest, Atlantic, and Central divisions. My previous blogs can be found at the following links:
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2473
http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2499
http://...
steal_your_faceoff writes...
Flyers Week Ahead: Panthers and Lightning and Bruins...oh my
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_florida_panthers_1994.jpg[/img][img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_tampa_bay_lightning_1993.jpg[/img][img]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_781.jpg[/img]...oh my
The 6-1, Atlantic Division leading Flyers take their game, from the homey confines of South Philadelphia, on the road fo...
The FlyerFly writes...
10/25- Late Defensive Gaff Dooms Flyers To 5-2 Loss In Tampa
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Through the first 8 games of the season, Kimmo Timonen has been the solid defensive presence the Flyers hoped for when he was acquired just ahead of the opening of free agency. But it's safe to say that Timonen wishes he had this one game back. A late miscue in his own zone led to an errant pass attempt to Danny Briere and a turnover that eventually ended up in the Flyer...
I knew it would come, of course ... eventually ... (and I'm not talking about the Islanders next game, though it does seem like, oh, I don't know, ABOUT SIX YEARS SINCE THEIR LAST ONE!) I digress ...
I knew that, inevitably, the first Isles/Lightning game of the year would arrive and that I may have to field all sorts of questions about my allegiance(s) once again. You ...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Sillinger's Night of 1000 Games: Isles Beat Tampa 4-0
Posted Friday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
So finally, here we are. A game. Tampa comes to town off a bad loss. Hmmm, don't they all come to town this way. Well, the Isles best be ready. Tampa comes in with defensive inconsistency and no top tier goalie. Even Holmquist is not playing. In goal is Marc Denis. But this will be far from a pushover. Ta...
Jon Jordan writes...
If He Said It, Sean Avery Deserves Everything He Gets
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Howard Berger, you have my utmost support.
Wade Belak, you do too.
If Sean Avery did, in fact, make comments directed at Jason Blake regarding his battle with cancer, bigger questions still remain.
(For the record, I have no reason to believe that he didn't make these comments, considering the source(s) on two levels ... one, it came from Mr. Berger, whose reput...
What exactly was so strange about the Rangers 2-1 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning? Well...
The shutout jinx struck again...
The Rangers finally got a goal from a forward. But you will never guess who...
And the Lightning scored twice and lost 2-1.
Confusing? Lets start from the top.
Coming into the game, the Rangers had a streak of 5 straight goals by defen...
It had to happen. After all, there were articles on how the Isles were better than predicted. Lots of revisionist pieces from the same usual suspects who slopped down the usual naive vitriol about the Isles at the start of the season. Lots of opened eyes. Lots of kudos. And then they lost two in a row after big wins versus NJ and NYR.
So the panic monkeys all pushed the...
Don't look for me - [i]I'll be hiding[/i].
Another interesting night for yours truly coming up, as I'll attend my first Isles/Lightning game since taking over the Lightning team blogger position for hockeybuzz.com. (I'll be safely tucked away in a luxury suite, borrowing one of Ek's disguises, hiding my face for a plethora of reasons. I'm a pseudo-professional, people. ...
[img]http://www.boredplanet.com/img/BlogBoxHeaderBanner.jpg[/img]
There is no amount of tweaking and humor that will seem to carry across what I thought was a defining moment to the Islander season last night. Last night's game versus the Florida Panthers was a very important barometer to the Isles fortunes. After a slide, and then a game against the Thrashers they shou...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Isles Pick Themselves Off the Floor on Saturday Night
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
So just when you think it might get worse, the Isles pull one out. Sure, it doesn't mean all is well. But it does show there is some signs of life from the waterslide lately. On Saturday night, Bill Guerin scored. Andy Hilbert scored. And Mike Sillinger, fresh of chewing Campoli's ear off, scored.
It reminds one, at least I have to speak for myself here, that despite s...
Hey all!
I just completed a guest spot with Noah Borer for The Hockey Ticket on mvn.com.
We talked Lightning and Islanders hockey, as well as some general NHL issues during what turned out to be - in my humble opinion, of course - an outstanding conversation!
Some of the things we covered:
Chris Simon
Colin Campbell's slip-up
The Isles goal scoring woes
Kyle...
As of last night, the four bottom slots in the eastern conference were held by teams in the Southeast division. Only the Carolina Hurricanes were in playoff position, and are running the risk of losing that position very quickly.
Every team in the division, with the exception of maybe Washington, is one or two pieces away from being a serious contender, but none can...
[b]The next 3 games for Colorado should prove very interesting: Car on Sat, Fla on Sun, and TB on Tues. Not only are all 4 teams, including Col, slumping (or are just down-right awful right now) but I believe Col has the potential to make a trade with any of these three teams.
From Col's end there are few untouchables and the names going remain Liles, Svatos, one of ou...
Well wow...not much to say about last nights horrible performance against the lightning, nothing was working, no matter what line combo Paddock put out, there just seemed to be zero chemistry. Im not sure what happens to this team when playing a bottom end team, they just completely no show...Now I know the injury situation makes it tough (take the top 2 scorers out from a...
What has gotten into Johan Holmqvist as of late? Back to back shutouts against the high-powered Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators? On the road?
Maybe one can credit the addition of Kari Ramo into the equation. No longer can Holmer expect mediocrity in the form of Marc Denis to be competing for his job. Kari is young, hungry and wants it, something that Denis had n...
The Rangers Rolled over the other night and let Carolina take the game. The officiating opened the gate for the storm and missed a boarding call on Gomez. Then the reffs called Shanny for a lazy (give me a break call) . Oh well, the Rangers should have used this as motivation and ran with it. Instead the team got small and let the speed of the Canes take over.
I...
It's definitely seemed quiet in Blackhawk Nation of late.
After Wednesday's pathetic 6-3 loss to an even more-injured (than the Hawks) Avalanche club, the Blackhawks have settled in Silicon Valley for tonight's tilt against the Sharks and another two day rest following that.
But some things have changed. The scathing remarks from Denis Savard have become quite positi...
Greeting Hockey Fans,
So Oil Country I have some questions for you in regards to this team. I hope to get some response, as I am curious for other opinions on some issues I have heard being discussed. So here's a couple questions with a few talking points for your enjoyment or displeasure.
1. If he was available, would waive his NTC, and could be had for a reasonable...
In case you haven't heard, oft-suspended Islanders forward Chris Simon is back practicing with the team as of yesterday, is eligible to return February 21st against Tampa and will do so immediately, according to coach Ted Nolan:
[i]"I can't see why he wouldn't get right back in the lineup. Other guys get injured and then get right back in. I don't see this as any differ...
In the "Salary Cap" world of today's NHL, all teams must configure their rosters to fit within the Cap currently set at $50.3M USD. And this system encourages a bargaining chip - the no trade clause.
While general managers employ this for different reasons, it ends up having the same effect. Some will use it to pursue players in the free agent frenzy to assure them of s...
Isles shutout the Lightning, extending the win streak to 6. Simon returns to boos, and the Isles seem surprised? Let's give them a reality check . . .
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/greaselightning.jpg[/img]
There several stories to come out of last night's big win over Tampa. The obvious one is that our streak is now 6 wins. Another is that despite these last cou...
Like all trades, yesterday's Lightning/Stars swap primarily involving Brad Richards and Mike Smith will need some time before any fair evaluation can truly be made. Bolts GM Jay Feaster is putting himself on the line in bringing in yet another goalie to fill the seemingly "unfillable" void left when Nikolai Khabibulin departed after capturing the Stanley Cup in 2004. Many ...
Hey Pens Fans,
The return of Sidney Crosby has been much anticipated and it went well. Also, Ryan Whitney was back in the lineup tonight, as well. Talbot had the Pens' first goal which came late in the third to make it 1-0. Dupuis and Crosby had the assists. At the end of the game, Malkin netted an empty-netter from Talbot to make it 2-0. Fleury was in goal stopping ...
The Flyers have Danny Briere officially listed as day to day with the right shoulder sprain suffered when he crashed into the boards in the 2nd period Sunday against the Rangers....
But after seeing Briere myself after Tuesday nights game and talking to a couple of people close to the situation, I feel confident to say Briere will definitely NOT dress tomorrow night agai...
Pics
http://www.flickr.com/photos/neat1325/sets/72157604063921785/
Shout out to everyone:
Thank you Candy for coming to the game
HI Dek and David so funny you guys were behind us. What are the odds?
Brooke and Karen that was so fun
Theresa and Her brother a pleasure as always awesome you got the Upshall puck
Kristin good observations and thanks for l...
[b]In yet another Jekyll and Hyde performance [/b]this afternoon, the Blue Jackets offense did the damage in a 5-3 win over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Not a misprint. The NHL's worst offensive team exploded for five goals and broke a listless streak (0-31) on the power play with Jason Chimera's game winner with 3:44 left. Nikolai Zherdev fired a one-timer through the legs...
B.D. Gallof writes...
Monday Morning Playoff Burger and Blues. Hold the Burger.
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Last week, the Isles went to MSG and brought back a hard fought win. It was probably their biggest win of the season due to the timing, rivalry and issues on their plate. It was a win in which we hoped would be the impetus to changing the gut-wrenching inconsistent mess they turned into mid-season.
Well, on Saturday night, they managed their biggest loss against a team ...
It's frustration versus disappointment tonight at the St. Pete Times Forum. Or is it disappointment versus frustration? (Disappointment versus disappointment? Frustration versus frustration?) It's difficult to tell, exactly, which franchise has more of which, though we can be certain that both the New York Islanders and the Tampa Bay Lightning will carry with them a hefty ...
There are a few reasons this incarnation of the Islanders for the 2007-2008 season failed. It has little to do with buying out Yashin and not going over-the-top to retain Blake. Though, if the Isles had just gone up one more year, he might have been retained. The thought that Blake is over-the-hill and ineffectual now in Toronto is just premature. When TO swept in, evident...
So much for the Lightning's problem of not being able to close out games!
As the Islanders closed the gap to 5-3 with 9:38 to go last night, I wondered if we were in for another late game collapse. Many others, I'm sure, feared the same. Goals by Vinny Lecavalier (completing a hat trick), Michel Ouellet and Jason Ward quickly - and by quickly I mean in a span of 42 seco...
After watching tonight's 7-4 win over Tampa Bay, I am convinced of one thing:
The Buffalo Sabres are schizophrenic.
The Sabres managed just two - that's right, two - shots on goal while giving up a pair of second-period goals to one of the worst teams in the league (last in the Eastern Conference with 66 points, or 15 points behind the Sabres). They left the ice fo...
Ok.
Ovechkin hit 60 goals with 6 games left.
Cool.
Now we can all relax. He's juiced the most he possibly could have out of this season.
C'mon, am I right??
Nope!
So, heres how I look at it. Ovechkin is the top scorer since the lockout. He's the best goal scorer, statistically, since Mario Lemieux put up 69 goals in 1995-96. But thats only so far. Could, hypothetical...
Jon Jordan writes...
The Coaching Carousel Could Soon Hit Full Spin Cycle
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
***This is a reprint of today's entry from my main page Lightning blog.***
Ron Wilson's ousting as head coach of the San Jose Sharks makes him the latest name to be added to the ever-growing list of NHL coaching candidates. Technically, there are six vacancies at present - Atlanta, Colorado, Florida, Ottawa, San Jose and Toronto - with three other intriguing situations ...
Here's a switch from traditional thinking - A Canadian team that will accept missing the play-offs this year and a Florida team that MUST win or face potentially franchise threatening woes.
The set-up is there to see some deals done with the salary cap as a factor for both teams, but with needs on both sides that might see a decent fit.
Tampa has continually been loo...
ESPN analyst Barry Melrose will be introduced as the Tampa Bay Lightning's new head coach at a news conference Tuesday.
Melrose has been an ESPN analyst full-time since 1996. He had previously worked as a studio analyst for ESPN's Emmy Award-winning 1994 Stanley Cup playoff coverage and for ESPN and ESPN2 during the 1995 Stanley Cup playoffs.
Melrose was the he...
steal_your_faceoff writes...
The Mullet returns...7th Sign of the Apocalypse??
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/Barrycopy.jpg?t=1214272516[/img]
Isn't Barry Melrose, and his wind tunnel tested hairdo, returning behind the bench one of the 7 signs of the impending Apocalypse? I mean, it has to be right after locusts and rivers of blood, right?
I'm not quite sure of chapter and verse, but I swore I once read something akin to...
TSN.ca is reporting that Ryan Malone has agreed to terms on a contract for $31.5 million over 7 years, including between $7 and 8 million for each of the first two years. I would say nice move by the Lightning, but they are definately overpaying for the first two years. I understand that he would probably be valuable to any team in the NHL, but $8 million is too much. T...
The Ricky Deez one man show! This looks like it will be a rough one. If we add Weight it will be great (was that like "if the glove doesn't fit".....?). He is a vet presence that will help Neilsen develop and it would give us a secondary threat down the middle. Bailey with Comrie and 2 others a few years from now, we will need someone else over the next couple to step in. ...
After all of the pissing and moaning by Sharks fans (myself included) on July 1st and 2nd for Doug Wilson "sitting on his hands," the last 24 hours have provided PLENTY of change in the Silicon Valley.
First Rob Blake was signed to a 1-year, $5 million deal yesterday. A couple hours later, rumors were rampant that this would not deter Doug Wilson from further pursuing ...
http://flyerflies.com/blog/?p=171
Al Strachan of FoxSports.com has published a blistering criteria of the NHL's current financial status today, declaring that the NHL is still destroying itself from the inside out. This comes in the wake of a disappointingly bloated 2008 free agent market in which a number of high and mid-level players seemed to get far more in their n...
As the days towards the regular season draw closer and closer (three months away I know, I'm just comforting myself) the final rosters of many teams are set to go. When the off-season began, GM's around the league were busy re-shaping their rosters, and with that many teams will impose a bigger threat than last season.
I will begin with the [b][i]Eastern Conference[/i][...
I'm going to begin by saying I'm quite excited for the upcoming season and I really like the moves made by Jim Rutherford to retool the team and it's defence. The Canes have a new look, a few solid prospects, and this is the first season that I can remember where the primary news about the Hurricanes is not about the financial situation.
That said, how different are the...
Jerry Maguire.
Dan Boyle. Brian McCabe. Alexander Radulov. Nikita Filatov. Tommy Salo. Mike Milbury.
Brett Favre.
http://www.latimes.com/sports/printedition/la-sp-farmer12-2008jul12,0,38150.story
As a new Packers fan I don't have the long term idolization most do, so Favre comes off kinda spoiled here when he says they didn't try hard enough to talk h...
Happy Saturday Morning
http://flyerflies.com/blog/?cat=109
Cheers
This has been quite the off-season for the Ottawa Senators and Andrej Meszaros.
After the Sens completely tanked the regular season and barely put up a fight in round 1 of the playoffs, possibly their top RFA refuses to sign a long-term contract with the club, pushing for as much money as possible.
Now the Ottawa Senators have shipped Andrej Meszaros to the Tampa B...
So you tuned in to see Stamkos and he only plays 6 minutes, huh? Well, this is why:
I hate to admit it, but he looks a little scared out there. Maybe not scared, but timid. You cant always have the puck in open ice, flying through the neutral zone. He hasn't won battles against the boards, he makes nervous decisions with the puck in his own end, he gets knocked off the ...
antdvda writes...
How Strong are the Lightning as a Franchise and Fanbase?
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
This is going to be a test. A test of loyalty. A test of commitment. And a test of dedication. Since the Bolts were first born here in Tampa Florida, they have always been the second sports team in town. Now with the emergence of the Rays and their fairytale rise to the top, and the success of the South Florida Bulls Football team in a college football crazed state, the Li...
The Sabres are back in action tonight against the Tampa Bay Lightning. They are looking to rebound from their pathetic perfomance aginst the Senators.
How the Teams Stack Up:
[b]Power Play[/b]
Buffalo: 21.6% - 7th in the league
Tampa Bay: 10.8% - 29th in the league
[b]Penalty Kill[/b]
Buffalo: 90.2% - 4th in the league
Tampa Bay: 84.3% - 11th in the league
...
After a stressful week (and another stressful week coming up), I was ALL SET for this game. I got back to my apartment at 4pm, made some food, drank some wine, and put on my Miller tshirt. Yes, I'm a bit of a hockey geek, but I look forward to Sabres games, especially like tonight when I was able to catch the whole game.
Things couldn't be better. I listen to the pre...
[img]http://assets.espn.go.com/media/apphoto/e8cb78eb-64ba-4e5c-8061-30eefcb75f94.jpg[/img]
Chris Drury scored two power play goals and a shorthanded tally to power the Eastern Conference leading Rangers past Tampa Bay for the third time this season.
New York's power play has been ineffective for most of the season, operating at only 13.5% - including last night's 3 ...
After signing a 11-year, $85-million contract extension with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Lecavalier believed he would be happy in Tampa Bay for the rest of his career.
However, everything changed later during the summer as Barry Melrose became the new head coach of the Lightning after a 13-year hiatus away from an NHL bench.
After yesterday's loss to the Red Wings, the ...
The Tampa bay Lightning have fired Barry Melrose because of a bunch of overpaid, whining, pretty boys who didn't like being called out for making EXTREME amounts of money and being LAZY.
This is a sad day for hockey. Melrose demanded his players skate hard every shift. He stated that they are an incredibly talented team, but that gets you nothing if you don't work har...
Before I even begin talking about the Sabres: THE BUFFALO BILLS WON THE MAC CHAMPIONSHIP, BEATING THE UNDEFEATED BALL STATE TEAM!!!
It is seriously the most uplifting story I've read in the longest time.
[url]http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/college/2008/12/06/2008-12-06_university_of_buffalo_goes_to_bowl_after.html[/url]
[i]Willie Evans was the starting halfback...
There is speculation-a-plenty around the league lately, as is the usual case in the days approaching the trade deadline.
With this at the fore-front of most discussions in NHL circles, I figured I'd put together a general compilation of what I figure each team will be doing between now and the deadline.
I figure I'll do this in segments, starting with the top-heavy S...
It could have been predicted that Jarome Iginla would get his 400th goal and pass Theoren Fleury to become the Flames' all-time points leader at 831 points tonight. What could not have been predicted, however, was that Iginla's four point night would not be enough to beat the lowly Lightning; that he would be outscored by Mark Recchi, of all people, that Jim Vandermeer wou...
So, here we are. The draft is coming up, and the Blues sit with a plethora of capable defensemen, and not so much offensive pure scoring depth. I think we can all agree one more potent scorer would put this team over the top. Tampa Bay sits at the #2 pick, and are seeking some high caliber defensemen in exchange for the #2 (or Lecavalier, for that matter).
The Island...
The artist formerly known as "The Long Distance Islander" relocated to the main page as your Tampa Bay Lightning correspondent over two years ago.
Please see my work there: http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?blogger_id=90
JJ
I know it is still early in the off-season, there are still lots of UFA signings and trades to be made plus all of the RFA’s need to be dealt with, but I thought it was still a good time to work on the “Off-Season Progress Reports for every team. I am only going to include the impact additions and subtractions. Today I start with the Eastern Conference, South Eastern D...
Having ended the first seaso nof their glorious control of the Tampa Lightning , in nothing but inglorious failure . Koules and Barrie have it appears seen the light in how to rectify the many failings of thier team .
In the 07-08 offseason , the then brand new Lightning owners , decided upon a hands on approach to hockey , and sought to buy up or trade for every pos...
It feels good to talk about how well run the Redwings are as an organization. You'll find no shortage of praise for Ken Holland or Brian Burke and the like. It's much more fun to rip apart the organizations that just don't seem to get it. So in the spirit of being cruel (summer is tough on a hockey fanatic), here are the Top 5 Worst run NHL franchises.
#5 - NY Ranger...
Continuing my series of scouting reports on goaltenders who have yet to make the NHL, I have decided to do Erie Otters starting goaltender Jaroslav Janus. Janus was drafted in the sixth round, 162nd overall in this past NHL entry draft, taken by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Many people know him because of his sensational performance at the 2009 World Junior Championships. He w...
Not unlike Arthur Miller's famous 1949 script, "The Death of a Salesman", many an NHL prospect has failed to taste success and so falls by the wayside!
The summer month of August certainly drains the life out of most talk hockey!
Come September we will be gearing up for prospect tourneys, training camps, and pre-season!
An earlier start to the regular season du...
So, after a summer of waiting on the sidelines, Alex Tanguay has finally signed, with the Tampa Bay Lightning and I think that is a GREAT move for them.
When Gary Bettman said, at the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, that he had a trade to announce and that it was Tanguay to Montreal for a 1st and 2nd round pick, I was ecstatic! Tanguay has always been a solid contributor to wh...
WarHero writes...
Game Day - 07/11/09: Mtl - vs - Tbl - Let the Battle Begin!
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Habs are fresh off their first road win since October 3rd, a shootout over the Boston Bruins, thanks to some brilliant goal tending from Carey Price while the Lighting are fresh off an overtime loss to the Ottawa Senators. Montreal has had trouble finding the net recently due to a sever lack of secondary scoring while Steven Stamkos just keeps filling it. Add in the re...
Rob McGowan writes...
Isles Fall to Lightning, DP Makes It Through 40 Minutes
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Last night the Islanders lost 4-0 to a team that had played the night before and did not return until very early Saturday morning after their flight back from New Jersey. It was also a showdown of Victor Hedman vs. John Tavares, two draft picks that that will be debated for many years to come.
It would only be fitting for Hedman to score his first NHL goal when he woul...
Jean Charest, Premier of Quebec, said this week that after talking with Gary Bettman, he is confident NHL hockey will return to Quebec City. “It is going to happen,” said the Premier, citing plans to build a new arena to lure the NHL back to Quebec’s capital city.
Cela est une grande idée Jean. But here’s why it ain’t gonna happen.
1. Population of Quebec ...
Kamal Panesar writes...
Daily Habs Links - Post-game, Plekanec, Panthers Game Day
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Plekanec is overtime hero, Price's strong play, Habs beat lightning...read all about it:
http://www.HabsAddict.com
Don't forget to check out the Habs To The Top Mid-Season Report Card:
http://www.habsaddict.com/2009/12/habs-mid-season-grades.html
Agree, disagree? Let me know! Happy New Year all!
The Flames fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning in overtime tonight by a score of 2-1. A hurtful reminder of the last time Calgary lost 2-1 in the St. Pete Times Forum. For those who do not know, it was game 7 of the 2004 Stanley Cup Final, a loss that Flames fans will not soon forget.
Two goals by Ruslan Fedotenko was all the Lightning needed that night, as the Flames ran ...
Rob McGowan writes...
Live Blog From Nassau Coliseum: Isles vs. Lightning
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
For anyone who is watching the Isles/Lightning matinee tilt that is at Nassau Coliseum today, I have been live blogging from the NYI Blog Box in Section 201. Head over to The Checking Line.
The direct link is as follows: http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/live-blog-nassau-coliseum-isles-vs-lightning
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
h...
Don in St. Pete writes...
New Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik backing words with action!
Posted Friday | Comments 0
New Tampa Bay Lightning Owner Jeff Vinik has consistently mentioned his desire to build a "World Class" organization in Tampa. His actions suggest loudly, that he's not kidding. For the past 2 seasons, Lightning news has more often than not been more appropriate for a Supermarket Rag than the Hockey News. Vinik has successfully reversed those days in Tampa Bay in a big ...
[IMG]http://i32.tinypic.com/14t6jnr.jpg[/IMG]
While it wasn't Maverick, Ice Man, and Goose (not to mention Kelly McGillis--talk about your young guns), a good time was had by the 2,200 and change inside the SPTimes Forum last Wednesday for the Lightning "Young Guns" event.
What a great idea. Showcase new talent, generate a bit of revenue, and stir up the faithful....
HockeyBay writes...
Tampa Bay Lightning Blogs, So many yet so few who care...
Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]
Tampa Bay Lightning Blogs, So many...
Lightning Strikes!
Raw Charge
Lightning Shout!
JoeBoltsFan
Bolt Prospects
Boltsmag
LightningHockeyBlog
boltsblog
thehockeybay
BenchedWhale whatever
yada yada yada...
But does anyone really read them? In a NON traditional NHL market and unsupportive community ( Go Gators etc. ) it is funny how so many blogs are ...
Is it too early to anoint Steve Yzerman as GM of the Year? [img]http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-Gy8Dx2EjPY/THTAK4ErpfI/AAAAAAAAARE/9T2NqBHNQAg/s1600/yzerman19.jpg[/img]
Well of course it is. It's far too early. [i](edit for clarity)[/i] We haven’t even dropped the puck on the 2010-11 NHL season yet; hell, training camp hasn’t even opened yet. But that isn’t going to sto...
Just some quick thoughts on the Flames and some of the players.
As for the team itself I think they have to be happy with the result overall yesterday. Tampa Bay dressed a roster that will be close to what they open the regular season with, yet they were clearly outplayed by the Flames and their rookie-laden roster for most of the night. The power-play, although suc...
Why Tampa Bay will make the playoffs.
Over the past couple seasons, Tampa has been a team waiting to take their skill into April. Tons of offensive firepower, a defence with a blend of youthful speed as well as a veteran presence to solidify the blueline. They've been questionable in goal since they won the cup in 04, but Ellis is a more than suitable replacement for th...
Tampa pre-season: It's true! It exists!
If it weren't for news articles and a few highlight clips, it wouldn't be hard to argue the existence of Tampa's preseason. The Bolts are faring well however, with a 2-1-1 record until now. They have a home and home against the state rival Panthers, a team who seems to have hit rock bottom, but are ready to build. They really have...
Stamkos on pace for a stinkin' 164 goals, 246 points.
Steve Downie? On pace for a lousy season, with 82 goals, 82 assists.
Vinny and Moore are lined up for a measly 82 goals.
A handful of other guys are on pace to have 82 points as well. Bunch of bums.
Anything less from these guys is totally unacceptable. If they fall from this pace, I swear I'll never live ...
When my fantasy hockey league started this season, I forgot about the draft. The autodraft picked up Stamkos for me, and never before have I been happier with technology, until it used my second pick to draft Spezza, and then my third to pick up Hank Lundqvist. I was quickly reminded of why I dislike most technology. Give me radio and a TV with only NHL Centre Ice, and I'm...
It would be hard to find another game this season that was as well played from start to finish by the Penguins.
True, the Lightning played last night...and are missing key guys named Lecavalier, Gagne and Downey...but even so, the Penguins have been in similar situations recently and they have lost games like this...games they should have won.
Tonight they got good, ...
Greetings and salutations, Lightning fans!! Let me start by saying what a priviledge it is to be writing for all of you on possibly hockey's most popular website. First and foremost let me give you a little background on where I come from and my association with the Tampa area. My name is Ian Cunningham and I have been working within the hockey media for a few years now....
Drafted 1st overall in the 2008 draft, Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos has quickly emerged as one of the league’s top performers.
The talk has been all about Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby over the last few years, but now it is time to consider Stamkos as well.
He’s too good to ignore. Stamkos has is proving that last year’s 51 goals was no fluk...
TORONTO (Nov. 29) Tampa Bay Lightning General Manager Steve Yzerman was handing out Bauer skates, gloves, and helmets to children at Thorncliffe Neighbourhood Centre in Toronto today. Yzerman, along with Lightning standout Steven Stamkos, have been named ambassadors to the grassroots hockey program RBC Play Hockey. The program is a multi-year commitment that will see $1 ...
Nabokov's dad said that his son wants to play for Tampa. Yes there are hurdles to overcome and they seem difficult; but with the "magic" Yzerman has done for this team, I have no doubt he could successfully tackle this. Nabokov hasn't proven that he can carry a team all the way through the playoffs, but there was so much said about Khabibulin not being able to either, that...
Check out my latest post at The Checking Line as I take a look at Garth Snow's recent move of trading Dwayne Roloson to the Tampa Bay Lightning
http://thecheckingline.com/blog/rob-mcgowan/new-york-islanders/roloson-dealt-tampa
Register and leave comments!
-Rob McGowan
Follow me on Twitter!
http://twitter.com/IslesRM
The New York Islanders have became a little younger as Islanders GM Garth Snow sent veteran goaltender Dwayne Roloson to Tampa Bay for 22 year old D-man Ty Wishart.
This deal provides the Lightning with some goaltending stability which the club very much needs. So far Tampa Bay has gone with Mike Smith and Dan Ellis, both of whom have not been able to claim the number o...
A hat-trick by Thomas Vanek would prove to be the difference as the Buffalo Sabres ended the Tampa Bay Lightning’s hopes for a South East division title with a 4-2 victory.
The Sabres started the game off as planned as they applied tremendous pressure on the visiting Tampa Bay Lightning. The chances piled up early and none better than when Stafford picked up a juicy r...
The Penguins are [b]TOAST[/b].
I'm as big a fan as anyone...and I desperately want them to win Game 7 on Wednesday night...but my gut tells me this series is [b]OVER[/b].
After watching them get outscored 12-4 and outplayed by almost the same amount in games 5 and 6, there is nothing I see that tells me this team will win game 7.
Without Sid and Geno...with a rece...
Most people will look back at the 2010-11 Penguins season and think the season was a success.
Given the well documented injuries to Crosby, Malkin and other important players on this team (Staal missing the first ½ of the season) I would have to agree that finishing the regular season with one of the highest point totals in the team’s history was a true success. I do...
In the 2009-2010 season, Tampa Bay Lightning was having a hard time. After their magical cup run in 03-04 they just never found their magic again. Making it once to the playoffs but losing in the first round, then missing the playoffs for the next three seasons. Finishing in last, 2nd last, and 6th last in the following three seasons. Something had to be done. Owner...
For a few weeks now many Penguin fans have been discussing and debating the possible return of Jaromir Jagr to the Penguins.
Some people don't see the point in signing a 39 year old who hasn't played in the NHL for 3 seasons to a $3M contract (word on the street).
I look at the recent signing of Brooks Laich to a 6 year, $27M contract by the Washington Capitals as mo...
There are only two days until the Free Agency period begins and one of the most highly touted players in hockey is yet to be signed. Tonight at 5 pm ET marks the time where teams may begin negotiating with other clubs’ RFA’s, although offer sheets cannot be officially submitted until Friday. Until this week, I was extremely hesitant regarding the idea that Steven Stamk...
LIGHTNING AGREE TO TERMS WITH FORWARD STEVEN STAMKOS
Leading Goal-Scorer Returns to Bolts with Five-Year Contract
TAMPA BAY – The Tampa Bay Lightning have agreed to terms with restricted free agent Steven Stamkos on a five-year contract today, vice president and general manager Steve Yzerman announced.
“Steven is extremely important to this franchise an...
IanCunninghamTB writes...
2011-12 Campaign Could Be Most Important in Bolts History
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
After a season which many observers would label as overachieving, the Bolts now find themselves in the unenviable forum of heightened expectations. Coming within one victory of the Stanley Cup Finals has many hockey fans in the Sunshine State envisioning a return to glory for Vinny and Co. While this is well within the realm of possibility, members of the Eastern Confere...
IanCunninghamTB writes...
Lightning Hit The Ice in Brandon This Weekend
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
by Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
The Tampa Bay Lightning Training Camp is officially under way!! After a day full of physicals and off-ice assessments, the team will travel to the Brandon Ice Sports Forum for their typical on-ice sessions and Blue/White games.
The on-ice workouts begin at 10 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday. As always, the practices an...
IanCunninghamTB writes...
Lightning Play in Orlando; On Jerseys and Gilroy
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
September 22, 2011--The Tampa Bay Lightning are off to a slow start in the 2011 pre-season, dropping back-to-back decisions to the St. Louis Blues, 3-1 and 4-3. The two teams played a home and home set of games, with the latter taking place in Orlando's New Amway Center, home of the Orlando Magic. It was the first hockey game...
by Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
There has been an abundant amount of speculation the past week or so regarding the Tampa Bay Lightning’s goaltending situation. Namely, that a change is needed to keep the hockey club competitive with increasingly difficult Eastern Conference squads. The NHL Standings as of November 1st read more like science fiction com...
Since nobody has posted any Tampa Bay Lightning content in a long time I figured I would take a crack at covering the team and the current rumors around them.
Starting with Eklund's rumor yesterday tying the Lightning to the recently demoted Linus Omark.
Omark has incredible offensive upside tallying 27 pts in 57 career NHL games (yet he is a minus 18), but many for...
With a number of teams struggling between the pipes I thought it would be fun to take a look at the goaltender market. I will look at each potentially available goaltender and the possibilities of them being moved this season. First up in a series of articles is...
Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames
We start off in Calgary where the Flames are struggling mightily and ...
After a tumultuous start to his New York Islanders career Nabokov showed up to training camp this year and have proved that he is still capable of being a strong NHL goaltender.
Couple that with the emergence last season of Al Montoya and the forever under contract Rick DiPietro and the Islanders have three goaltenders that could be the team’s starter.
If the Islan...
by Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
Three games into November, the Tampa Bay Lightning have managed to secure four of a possible six points, capped off by a thrilling come from behind shootout victory in Florida. Although the Bolts surrendered three points to division rivals Carolina and Florida, the focus at this point in the season is on gathering points, r...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Will Brett Connolly Be Released to Canada's WJC Team?
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported that the Lightning may be interested in loaning Brett Connolly to Canada’s World Junior Championship squad this coming December. If you’re team Canada, why wouldn’t you want Connolly? He has all the intangibles necessary to be a great WJC player. For example, let’s take a look at some of the great WJC leaders for Canada in the past ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Addressing the Lightning and Goaltending Rumors
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
It’s pretty clear that the Lighting are going to have a few deficiencies in a couple of years. Heck, some of those holes are starting to shine through right now. The team needs more depth, better defense and most importantly a strong, young goaltender moving forward.
Dwayne Roloson is not going to be the guy to carry this team through Steven Stamkos’ prime and gui...
Michael_Stuart writes...
The Evolution of Steven Stamkos as an Even Strength Force
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
When Steven Stamkos rips his one-timer from the half boards, fans cheer; the puck is travelling so quickly that is always has a chance to score. Since his NHL career started, Stamkos has been labeled a bit of a one dimensional player by some. Well, this season, Stamkos is turning himself into an even strength force.
Consider last season when 17 of Stamkos’ 45 goals ...
Is this group better than a 10th place team? You bet it is. This season hasn’t started off as planned for the high powered Lightning. Whether mired in goaltending issues, defensive woes or a 1-3-1 “scandal” or sorts, the Lightning have yet to get on a nice run. Like a lot of teams, consistency seems to be the main issue here; specifically, defensive consistency.
...
The Lightning are now past the quarter mark of their relatively young season. With some new faces and other changes, it was important to give the team time to gel before giving them a “report card” or sorts. In this blog, I’ll take a look at forwards, defense, goaltending while giving an honest and blunt opinion on the team moving forward.
[b]The Forwards[/b]
...
The 1-3-1 trap has been used in hockey for decades. While it’s not the most exciting thing to watch, it shuts opponents down and does indeed give the trappers a chance to win. Guy Boucher knows that.
The ugly incident in the Philadelphia game had the entire league talking about the 1-3-1 trap and how Tampa was “ruining the game” and it was “their fault” an...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Yzerman Returns to Detroit as Bolts Challenge Wings
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Lightning continue their mini road-trip tonight against the Detroit Red Wings. This is a real test for the team as it attempts to bounce back from the deflating Minnesota loss. The storyline for this game is intriguing as the Lightning have been unable to beat the Wings in the two teams’ last five meetings.
The wings are red (no pun intended) hot right now as ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Breaking News: Lightning Re-Sign Hedman to 5 Year Pact
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Here with a quick update. The Lightning have signed Victor Hedman to a 5 year $20million contract extension. Hedman, who is second on the team in ice time this season, has struggled offensively this season. Though, the talent is there and it should only be a matter of time before points start to come.
[b]My Thoughts on the Deal:[/b]
With this being the last year o...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts Lose to Wings at the Joe in Emotional Game
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Despite losing having lost tonight’s game, the Lightning shouldn’t be feeling too down on themselves. For me, tonight’s contest had a really positive atmosphere starting with the video tribute to Steve Yzerman and the standing ovation given to him. You could practically feel the raw emotion coming from all parties at the Joe. This guy is a legend.
The Red Wings...
by Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
The Tampa Bay Lightning recorded a record of 6-7 in the month of November, dropping three spots to eleventh in the fifteen team Eastern Conference. In the process, Tampa surrendered eleven of a possible eighteen points available to Eastern Conference opponents, including six points to three teams that were below the Bolts i...
With the Lightning off for a couple of days, I have time to sit back and enjoy some other hockey games. That being said, there’s always chatter and things going on in the Lightning world so I do my best to keep my readers posted. Here are some news and notes on the Lightning to begin December.
- Guy Boucher is really trying to push speed. An article posted today in...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Why Bolts Must Get Into Bobby Ryan Trade Discussions
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Someone on TSN had a great quote a couple days ago about Bobby Ryan. He said “if you have a guy who 29 other teams want, don’t trade him.” To a certain extent, that’s very true. But all indications have pointed towards the fact that Ducks GM Bob Murray is indeed listening to offers with some intent of shipping off the budding young superstar.
Here at Hockey...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Breaking News: Lightning Make Minor Trade with Panthers
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers have made a small trade.
[b]To Florida[/b]
James Wright (F)
Michael Vernace (D)
[b]To Tampa[/b]
Mike Kostka (D)
Evan Oberg (D)
In Oberg the Lightning are getting a developing D-man who has NHL potential. He didn't exactly struggle in Vancouver but his trade was necessary for the Canucks to bring in Chris Higgins....
Michael_Stuart writes...
10 Bold Predictions for Rangers vs. Lightning Game
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Last time John Tortorella and Brad Richards were at the St. Pete Times Forum it was a very happy time for the Lightning. Fresh off winning the Stanley Cup and heading into the lock-out, things looked good for the franchise moving forward. That was until the dreaded SALARY CAP…..ugh…..took hold of this team and forced Jay Feaster to rip the team apart. Richards was o...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Lose to Rangers: My Prediction Round Up
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Well, the Ranger game is now over and I suppose it’s time to go over my downright dreadful predictions. Without further ado, my post-game recap.
1. Lightning dominate the game but the score is close until the final buzzer. The Rangers are red hot but the Lightning have all the intangibles necessary to beat this team. The final score? 5-4 Lightning. [b]Okay, so I didn...
By Ian Cunningham
[email protected]
A 5-1 drubbing at the hands of the league’s lowest scoring team, the New York Islanders, has left the Lightning coaching staff shaking their heads in disbelief. Is this the same team that stymied opponents routinely down the stretch and in the post-season last year? While the personnel have not turned over to any great d...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Simply Embarassing: Lightning Drop 5th Straight to Islanders
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Simply embarrassing. To be honest, that’s the only way I can really sum up the last few games for the Lightning. When this little 3 games in 4 nights started, I said that three wins were very possible and that two was the absolute minimum. Well, the Lightning came out and delivered exactly 0 wins.
Losing to the Rangers? Okay that’s fine. Losing to the Senators...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Beat Rangers to End Losing Streak - Mixed Bag
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
So who would have thought that the second Marty St. Louis gets injured, the Lightning win a game? Show of hands? Well safe to say that I wasn’t expecting the result we got tonight. The game was an interesting display of emotion from two teams with high expectations on them. Lots of penalties and a different game than I was expecting.
After 5 straight losses, the L...
When the Tampa Bay Lighting came into lower Manhattan to face the New York Rangers, they were expecting a war. But when Artem Anisimov scored a shorthanded goal in the second period, things got a little too literal for Vincent Lecavalier and company.
After a few seconds of celebrating with his arms in the air, Anisimov turned toward the Lightning end of the ice, preten...
Michael_Stuart writes...
The 1-3-1 Returns: Flyers Take on Bolts at Wells Fargo
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The game we’ve all been waiting for. It’s game day for the Philadelphia Flyers and Tampa Bay Lightning. Normally, this would just be another game, but tonight, things are different. Tonight marks the first match-up for these two teams since the whole 1-3-1 incident.
It will be interesting to see what Peter Laviolette does tonight in his own barn. My guess? Ab...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Fall to Flyers: The Slot Looks Like a Drive-Thru
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I’d be lying if I told you that I don’t think the Flyers are a good team. They have offensive depth, solid goaltending and arguably the most complete forward in the game (Claude Giroux). I know I’ll get a lot of heat from Crosby fans for saying that, but I really like Giroux’s game. He didn’t burst onto the scene like Sidney did, but man is he ever good. Even...
So apparently the game plan was lost in the mail on its way from New York to Philadelphia and then from Philly back to Tampa. Not to worry though, things are going to be fine soon enough. Okay, so that may be a little bit of an optimistic view on things. This post-game wrap up is all about one thing; one VERY big thing.
I have lowered my expectations for this team ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Talk: Defensemen to Target in Free Agent Frenzy
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
So what is the biggest problem with the Lightning right now? Is it offense, goaltending, defense? Pick your poison if you will. There is room for improvement in all positions. Tonight, we’ll take a look at some of the free agent defenseman available at year’s end to see who I feel would fit in with the Lightning moving forward. You know things are bad with the tea...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Flames/Bolts Preview + A Little "What If?" Scenario
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
It’s game day for the Lightning as the Calgary Flames come to town for the only meeting of the year between these two teams. When I look at both teams, I see disasters. Neither team is playing well right now. That being said, at least the Lightning have a future. We have young, talented players who should be able to carry this team for a really long time. In Calgary...
[img]http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/1564/eruption5.jpg[/img]
Welcome Back!
Tonight's game is the first game that Jay Feaster will get the play against his former team the Tampa Lightning. It was in 2008 that Jay Feaster decided to resign from his position as GM of the Lightning and he will be looking for the win. As much as I wish I could say this team would be m...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts Squeeze By Flames Thanks to Dominant Second Period
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Was that offense I saw? Wow, how nice it is to see the Lightning score goals and get solid performances from a lot of key sources. It’s like my entire Christmas wish list was answered in one night. Thanks Santa! Alright, so the goals may not have been the prettiest what with all the deflections and all, but a win is a win is a win and this team will take whatever it ...
For the Lightning, the future starts now. Look at the core of this team and it’s pretty obvious. What makes a winner? It’s the ability to draft well, develop players and sign key free agents at the right time. You can bet that Steve Yzerman is doing his best to model the Bolts after the Detroit Red Wings. So, since Yzerman’s own retirement from the Motor City, w...
In the words of one Charlie Sheen: “Winning!”
Could the Lightning be onto something right now? With two wins in a row, the team is finally starting to show that hunger and tenacity that we all came to know and love last season. Yes, it was only the Columbus Blue Jackets but a win is a win is a win. Every two points in this league count and these ones may go a lon...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Why the Lightning WILL make the Playoffs This Season
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Over the past few days I’ve been reading a lot of hockey coverage, listening to a lot of hockey talk, and watching a lot of hockey. Not a bad way to spend a few days if you ask me. Now, the consensus I’ve heard from most people is that the Lightning don’t have much of a shot to make the playoffs this season. I thought about of myself, and I think those people are ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Embarrassed by Sharks in San Jose: U-G-L-Y
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
That was quite possibly the most embarrassing game I’ve ever seen. In fact, embarrassing isn’t a strong enough word. The Lightning were absolutely brutal tonight in a game that I considered to be one of the very key games this season. Why, why, why? How can a team come out so flat and give up so many goals in one period. A goal every 4 minutes for the Sharks? Tha...
It’s not often that the Lightning and Avalanche get together. As I mentioned in one my other game previews, that is going to be one really nice thing about re-alignment. We will get to see all these Western teams twice a year. Not only will it help to create rivalries, but it will really help spread the game across the United States. I can’t be the only one who is ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts Lose to Avalanche in Goalie Battle + Rumor Round-Up
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
My prediction was a high scoring, offensive battle with the Lightning coming out on top. Instead, we got a low scoring chess match in which the Lightning lost. It’s high time I stop predicting Lightning wins; they never seem to come through. Let’s get to my post-game Good, Bad, Ugly analysis.
[b]The Good[/b]
The best part about tonight, despite the outcome, was ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Risky Business: Victor Hedman and Other Top-5 D-Men
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
It’s early Christmas morning and I have time on my hands. Over the past few weeks I’ve been researching a topic and coming up with stats and facts to back my point of view. As the title of this blog says, I feel like there is a downside to picking defensemen with very high draft picks. It’s a well-known fact that defenseman take longer to develop and often don’t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Flyers vs. Bolts Shaping Up to be a Great Game -- Preview
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The holiday break is already over as NHL hockey starts again tonight. It’s funny how long this holiday break feels when you don’t get to see a game for a couple days. It makes me cringe when I think about a season with the possibility of no playoffs. Thank goodness the golfing is good everywhere that time of year. A little too cynical for the holiday season? All t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Next 6 Games Vital for Lightning + My Predictions
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
For teams in the playoff picture, the stretch run starts somewhere in that last month or so of the season. For teams that are not fortunate enough to be in one of the elusive top 8 spots, the stretch is never ending. In my mind, the next weeks, which contain 6 games, are the most important weeks of the season for this Lightning club. Success is vital in these 6 games if...
Dare I say it; what a game! This tilt had a little bit of everything in it. There was a great deal of animosity, some great goals, solid goaltending from Garon and a whole bunch more. Like my game preview stated, this shaped up to be one of the best games of the year (despite the lack of chances). Of course, from the Lightning perspective, it helps that we kicked off t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
A Tale of Two Underperforming Teams: Bolts vs. Canadiens
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Canadiens come to town in what is shaping up to be a tale of two underperforming teams heading in opposite directions. The Lightning have put together a couple of really solid efforts that have us looking upwards towards greener pastures. The Canadiens are still so enigmatic that it is so hard to read. On the one had, you think that they might do something still thi...
Michael_Stuart writes...
A V for Vinny, a V for Victory: Bolts Down Habs 4-3
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Although the effort wasn’t as strong as it had been in the last two, you’ve got to like the Lightning’s comeback from 3-1 down. It was a game that had a little bit of emotion, some nice offensive play and a lot of excitement. Overall, while I wasn’t totally impressed with everything from the Bolts tonight, it was nice to see a victory after falling behind early. ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts/Canes Preview + HB Hotstove Response + Rumor Update
Posted Friday | Comments 0
It’s amazing how gratifying two wins can feel. After beating up on the Flyers and squeezing by the Canadiens, the Lightning close out this current three game home stand with a tilt against the Carolina Hurricanes. If there was ever a game the team wanted to play on home ice, this would be it. The Bolts’ problems haven’t been at the newly re-named Tampa Bay Times F...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Defeat 'Canes 5-2 on Phil Esposito Night
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Victories breed confidence and there is no doubting that this Lightning team is a confident group. Now, with 3 key wins in a row, the Lightning seem to have a sort of swagger that hasn’t been seen all season. Every two points hold so much weight in this league. There is so much parity that you need to make every game count. Right now, the Lightning are doing exactly ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Leafs vs. Bolts: Two Teams Headed in Opposite Directions
Posted Monday | Comments 0
It’s funny to consider just how far the Toronto Maple Leafs have fallen from the tree that is the cream of the crop in the NHL. What a witty little analogy that was. To start the season, everything that could go right for the Leafs, was going right for the Leafs. They were getting solid goaltending from James Reimer, timely scoring from the top line and great defensiv...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Steven Stamkos is the Most Marketable Player in the Game
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Since Sidney Crosby’s concussion and Alex Ovechkin’s fall from grace, the National Hockey League has been in dire need of a new star. The league needs a face that every fan can get excited about. What I’m about to argue will irk a lot of the hockey world. Obviously, as a Bolts fan, I’m a little bit biased. That said, I believe that Steven Stamkos is the most ma...
Tonight is the big game. Re-match from the World Junior Gold Medal game last year in Buffalo. As a Canadian, I was really cheering the Czech's on last tonight against Russia. In such a tight game, Grigori Zheldakov scored the game-winner for Russia following a power-play from the Czech's. Daniel Krejci was hit on the follow through of a Russian players stick, and stayed do...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Defeated by Leafs: Game Review + "The Issues"
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Heading into this game, everything seemed right for the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Bolts had just come off a 3-0-0 run at the Tampa Bay Times Forum (I try to plug it as much as possible just to get used to it) and were looking for a fourth straight victory in Toronto. Say what you want about tonight’s game, but it’s pretty hard to argue that, on paper, this wasn’t a ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Poised to take on Senators + Rumor Response to Ek
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
After a small trip down loser’s lane, the Lightning need to get back into the winner’s circle. Losers don’t make it too far in the National Hockey League these days. This season isn’t lost yet, despite a rather one-sided loss at the hands of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, the Lightning sit in 12th place in the east. While it doesn’t sound pretty, take no...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Anderson Shines as Sens Steal Two Points from Lightning
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Heading into the game against the Ottawa Senators, fans knew it was going to be a challenge to get the win. The Sens boast some great young players with a lot of skill up front. That said, I’m not sure people expected what we saw tonight. It was the Craig Anderson show as he singlehandedly stole this game from the Tampa Bay Lightning in heartbreaking fashion. Here’...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts in Montreal to Take on Canadiens: An Interesting Test
Posted Friday | Comments 0
Tomorrow, the Lightning are in Montreal to take on the Canadiens. If our Bolts cannot get up for this one, I will officially consider this season a write-off. It’s always exciting for this group to play in Montreal. Few teams have the French connection that the Bolts do. Guys like Marty St. Louis and Vinny Lecavalier typically put in that extra little bit to play wel...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Outwit, Outplay, Outlast: Bolts Downed by Habs in Montreal
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Outwit, Outplay, Outlast. While that may be the tagline for CBS’s popular show, Survivor, it is also exactly what the Montreal Canadiens did to the Tampa Bay Lightning last night. That loss, giving the Bolts a record of 3-3 on my little stretch, all but puts the Lightning out of contention. Unless drastic changes are made, we aren’t going to be seeing playoff hockey...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Canucks vs. Lightning Game Preview + Guy Boucher Contract
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
First and foremost I’d just like to apologize for getting this up a little late. It’s been a busy couple of days with travel and whatnot. That said, I’m here with the Bolts game preview for tonight’s tilt at the Tampa Bay Times Forum against the Western Conference powerhouse, Vancouver Canucks. Also in this blog I’ll be addressing a Guy Boucher question brough...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Canucks Beat Bolts in Showcase of Offensive Talent
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
People often say that history tends to repeat itself. After watching this game, another offensive classic, between the Vancouver Canucks and Tampa Bay Lightning, it’s hard to disagree. For the second time in two meetings, the Bolts and Canucks played a back and forth match that ended with a 5-4 decision in extra time for the visiting team. Here are my rough game notes...
At this point in the season, with the Lightning in their current rut, it’s tough to put a value on the importance of a game. Are we chasing a playoff spot, or is this season completely done? As I’ve voiced to many of you before, the onus lies on management to come out and update a fan base that is so curious. All Steve Yzerman has to do is come out and tell us that ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
A Negatively Written Rant on the Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It’s not that difficult to understand what’s going on with this Lightning group right now. After another lackluster effort, this time against the Carolina Hurricanes, the Bolts find themselves in the unenviable position of having to decide whether or not to be ‘buyers’ or ‘sellers’ at the trade deadline. With about a month and a half to go before the pivotal ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Uninspired Bolts Head to Washington Looking for Change
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Lightning are in DC tonight to take on the Washington Capitals. Despite not being the powerhouse group that haunted the league only a few short years ago, the Washington Capitals boast some great offensive weapons that shouldn’t have any problem feasting on weak defense and spotty goaltending. As Ian Esplen, the Canucks blogger here at Hockeybuzz, always says, “r...
Who needs success when resiliency that leads to failure is a perfectly good option? Once again, the Lightning started out slower than a turtle in a pivotal game. You would have thought that the team would be better prepared to take on the high flying Capitals. In my pre-game report, I mentioned that Ovechkin was a sleeping giant; I also mentioned that I’m terrible at ...
Steve Yzerman, the worst GM in the league? I don’t think so, Barry. Unfortunately, you are way off base here. In just a short amount of time with the Lightning, Yzerman has done much more than make a few roster changes; he has created a culture. It’s the culture and aura that followed him around in Detroit and with Hockey Canada. The Tampa Bay Lightning franchise ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Frustration Mounts as Malkin and Pens Defeat Bolts
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Once again the alarm clock failed to wake the Tampa Bay Lightning until it was too late. The Bolts found themselves down 2-0 fairly early in the game. It was then that the team woke up. Frustration, disappointment and fight finally made appearances for this group. We saw a team that was pissed off with losing, a team that wanted to win. However, we also saw a team tha...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Ready for Bruins? + Rumor du Jour + Your Questions
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Lightning finish off a busy couple of weeks with a visit from the big, bruising, Boston Bruins tomorrow night. It should be an interesting game between two teams who have gone in opposite directions since a meeting in last season’s Stanley Cup playoffs. I would argue that that series was largely dominated by the Lightning. Last season, when the Bolts were successf...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Strike Bruins + Rumor Round-Up + Answers
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
There’s a jam packed blog here for you folks tonight full of my post-game thoughts, a rumor update, and the answers to the questions you submitted to me. Speaking of the game, it’s really funny to think that this is the exact same team we saw play Pittsburgh just a couple nights ago. Maybe all that mumbo-jumbo I was saying about frustration really did make a differen...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Hold off Stars for 2-1 Victory + Rumors
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Lightning went into the American Airlines Center in Dallas to take on a Stars team that is one of the hardest working, energized groups in the league. Looking for their second straight victory, the Lightning took to the ice knowing what they had to do. They played with pride, emotion and strength for a good portion of the game. It was enough to lead the group to vic...
Game two of this Western Conference back-to-back road trip is tonight with the Bolts taking on the Phoenix Coyotes. As a result of the quick turnaround time, the Bolts will probably be a little bit tired in Phoenix. The key for the Bolts is to remain disciplined as they search for their 3rd win in a row. If history means anything, the Bolts come into this one having won...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Hold Off Coyotes for Huge 4-3 Victory
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Lightning won back-to-back road games for the first time this season. It was a welcome change for a team that is just trying to claw its way back into the playoff race. Tonight’s two points will go a long way in ensuring the Bolts have a chance at the post-season. Roloson was superb, the offense did what it had to and the defense held its own for the most part. I...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Poised to Make Run Down the Stretch
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
After winning 5 games in a row, the Bolts have a lot of fans, including myself, wondering if there’s a chance of seeing post-season hockey in 2012. Not only was tonight’s win important, it was also a confidence booster. Often times, the first game back from the all-star break is pivotal for a team. Hopefully that’s the case for the 2011-12 version of these Tampa B...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Look to Strike Down Jets in Thursday's Tilt
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Lightning are poised to take on the Winnipeg Jets at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on Thursday with one thing in mind, two points. Belief is starting to set in that this team could very well be a playoff bound team. As it stands right now, the Lightning sit in 11th place with 48 points while the Jets have 52 points in 10th place. That four point gap could be narrowed to...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Great Effort from Bolts isn't Enough to Ground Jets
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Six game win streaks are always nice, aren’t they? Unfortunately, the Lightning didn’t manage to get to that elusive sixth straight W. Instead, they walked out of the Tampa Bay Times Forum with one point to keep pace with “the pack”. Two would have been nice; but by no means are the Lightning out of the race. What matters right now is that the Bolts continue to...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts/Panthers Preview + Rumors + Standings Research
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The month of February is shaping up to be one of vital importance for the Tampa Bay Lightning. With 12 games until the February 27th trade deadline, the Lightning are looking at a schedule that will have a huge impact on whether or not the team makes the playoffs this season. In this blog, I’ll take a look at the Panthers game coming up on Saturday, some rumors making ...
Chalk up another two points for the boys in blue. What a story the last 7 games has been for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Now, the Lightning find themselves in a true race with some tough opponents for just a couple playoff spots. Tonight’s post-game report will have a short synopsis of the game itself and then a larger feature on individual pieces and how they relate to ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Predicting the Month of February - Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
With the trade deadline only weeks away, and the stretch run in full swing, it’s time to make some predictions. The Lightning have an off day, so today’s blog will give a brief synopsis of the month’s remaining games. Should anyone put money down on these predictions? With my track record, absolutely not. That said, with all the talk about taking things ‘one ga...
I have decided on a trade that would work pretty well
From Buffalo: From Tampa Bay:
Ryan Miller Victor Hedman
As we all know, Tampa Bay is in need of a goalie very badly. Ryan Miller is obviously someone who can pay the bill. And with Hed...
It’s always a treat when my two favorite teams get together to play a good ol’ fashioned game of hockey. That’s exactly what’s going to happen when the Los Angeles Kings come to town to take on the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday evening. For two teams that don’t see each other often, there is certainly an abundance of storylines to follow prior to puck drop. T...
After two demoralizing losses for the Tampa Bay Lightning, nobody is going to fault the odd fan or two for falling off the bandwagon here. In all likelihood, the Lightning will be sellers by the February 27th with their playoff dreams shattered, but, my name is Mr. Optimism and positivity is my game. The Bolts aren’t out of this race quite yet. They have games in hand...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Defeat Sabres in Tight Tilt + Penguins Preview
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Only in the NHL is it possible to be one of the best teams over a ten game stretch and not make up any ground. That’s exactly what’s happening to the Tampa Bay Lightning right now. 7-1-2 in their last ten, the Bolts have been playing some inspired hockey. Whether it’s players fighting for jobs, looking to get traded to a contender or just simply fighting for a pla...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Quick Lightning Update - Are the playoffs in reach?
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Sometimes, with a non-playoff team, you sit, you watch and you wonder how on earth it isn’t more competitive on a night-to-night basis? That’s exactly what happened with the Bolts tonight. With the parity in the National Hockey League, talent doesn’t necessarily mean everything. In today’s game, it’s all about work ethic and effort. In my opinion, the Bolts w...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Down Caps + The Competition + Trade Deadline
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
It’s tough to argue with results. As right now, the Lightning have narrowed the gap between themselves and the playoffs to a mere six points. There was a time at which the gap was around ten points and Bolts fans would take heat for saying that we still had a chance this year. Now, the Bolts are proving all the critics wrong.....
[b]Read the entire blog over at my...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Analyzing the Lightning Trades - Moore and Kubina
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
It’s Hockey Day in America and, you guessed it, the Lightning are not playing. After last night’s hard-fought win against the Capitals, and with a couple of days off, it’s time to take a look at the two trades the Lightning have made so far. Expect a flurry of movement as we move closer to the February 27th trade deadline; it should be mighty exciting.....
[b]Re...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Answering the Ryan Malone Conundrum: What's He Worth?
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Ryan Malone trade rumors are starting to heat up. For a player with size, soft hands and a knack for going to the net, Malone’s offensive totals should be much greater than they currently are. In fact, it could be argued that Malone’s effectiveness on the ice is at an all-time low. Since arriving in Tampa Bay from Pittsb...
It’s a quiet night in the NHL tonight with only two games on the schedule. One of those games has a huge impact on the Bolts as they move forward. The Washington Capitals are taking on the Carolina Hurricanes tonight in a game that will have huge playoff implications for many other teams. If the Capitals win, it’s another two points to make up. If the Capitals lose...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Yzerman Sends Downie to Avalanche - Quick Update
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Steve Yzerman has continued his trade tirade today with moves sending Steve Downie to Colorado in exchange for Kyle Quincey, only to send Quincy to Detroit in exchange for Detroit’s 2012 first round draft pick and Sebastien Piche. Yzerman was not finished there; he then sent forward Matt Fornataro to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Brandon Segal. Here are some q...
The Lightning finished off their homestand tonight with a HUGE victory against the Anaheim Ducks. The Bolts may not have deserved the game, but good teams find ways to win. Right now, this group finds itself only 5 points out of the playoff picture. Many questions have yet to be answered.
[b]Read the game recap over at Tampa Bay Lightning Hockey Buzz![/b]
[url]h...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts Head to Winnipeg for Game of the Season vs. Jets
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
All season, bloggers like myself have been preaching about “big games”. Well, tomorrow’s game against the Jets is the epitome of a big game. Playoff spots are on the line for the manager, ticket revenues are on the line for owners and jobs are on the line for players. This is a key time of a year; this game is shaping up to be the biggest of the season for the Tam...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Jets Dominate Lightning in Heartbreaker + Trade Rumors
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Lightning were in Winnipeg last night for a Southeast Division showdown. The team failed to show up and they got beaten as such. An inspiring comeback was not enough to save the Tampa Bay Lightning. They gave two points to their division rival and widened the gap between themselves and the playoffs. With only a 7.2% chance of making the playoffs, the Bolts need to ...
With a weekend of travel behind me, it’s time to take a look at the weekend and give a re-cap. Obviously there were two big games this weekend and thankfully the Bolts managed to pull out a win on Sunday. The Lightning are still “in” the playoff race but things are certainly getting a little more tense. Steve Yzerman has stated that he doesn’t believe he’ll be...
It's that time of year, folks. We are under 24 hours away from the NHL trade deadline. With some big names on the market, and a couple big names now off the market, there will certainly be a flurry of activity as we move towards 3 p.m EST tomorrow. Over the course of the next day or so, I will be updating this blog regularly with Lightning moves, moves that interest the...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Tampa Bay Lightning: Analyzing the Deals of the Day
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Before we get started here, I'd like to thank everyone who read, commented and participated in the interactive, live blog here at TB HB and at HockeyBuzz. It was a lot of fun chatting with you guys as the deals of the day unfolded. Despite being a rather quiet deadline day overall, the Lightning were really busy. Yzerman made some key deals that should benefit this team...
The Habs are in Tampa for a really important game tonight. The Bolts are only six points back of 8th place and, with their new look defense, you can bet they'll be ready to go. It should be a really exciting tilt as you know these two teams always get the best out of each other.
[b]There's a game preview blog over at TB HB![/b]
[url]http://tblhockeybuzz.blogspot....
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Edge Closer to Playoff Spot with Victory Over Habs
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Sometimes, the referees do everything they can to change the outcome of a game. Occasionally, that's not enough. In last night's tilt between the Montreal Canadiens and the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Bolts got absolutely shafted by the officials. Those of you who read my blogs frequently know that I am not someone who harps on the referees often. In order for me to actua...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Steal Two Points from Conference Leading Rangers
Posted Friday | Comments 0
It didn’t take long for tonight’s game against the New York Rangers to have a playoff feel added to it. If the Bolts are to make the playoffs this season, there is a great chance that their first round opponent would be the Rangers. Based on what we’ve been treated to over the course of the season series, this blogger can’t complain. The Rangers are one of the t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning in Carolina for Pivotal Tilt Against the 'Canes
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Tonight’s game is a big one. The Lightning are in Carolina to take on the Hurricanes in what is shaping up to be a very pivotal game in the race for a playoff spot. With neither the Jets nor the Capitals in action on this Saturday evening, the Lightning have a shot to move just two points back of 8th place. That’s a far cry from the distant gap that once stood betwe...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Bolts Continue Playoff Push with Comeback Victory Over Canes
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Back-to-back games are never easy for a team in the National Hockey League. After beating the Rangers on Friday, the Bolts found themselves with another daunting challenge in Carolina. Less than 24 hours later, the Bolts were tasked with taking down a Hurricanes team that had been playing very well as of late. The big guys came in tired, Garon was playing for the second...
It’s Sunday March 4th and the Bolts have a couple days off. There’s a lot of excitement surrounding this team right now as it tries to complete the once unthinkable task of making the playoffs. The games are big; the stakes are high. Every player on the roster knows that he needs to play well in order to get this team into that number 8 seed. Here’s hoping that t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Ready to Take on Senators in Key Tilt on Tuesday
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Eastern Conference standings are so tight right now; a win, tomorrow against the Ottawa Senators, is a must. At the time of writing, the Buffalo Sabres and Winnipeg Jets had not dropped the puck in their incredibly important tilt. With a Jets loss today and a Lightning win tomorrow, the Bolts would be sitting in 8th spot. That's right folks, barring the outcome of t...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Capitals Break Hearts by Defeating Bolts in Overtime
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Welcome to the National Hockey League, Dustin Tokarski. It was a big night for everyone on the ice tonight as the Tampa Bay Lightning took on the Washington Capitals. With two points up for grabs in the ever-tight Eastern Conference playoff race, the Lightning needed a good performance. Trailing the Capitals by two points heading into the tilt, the Lightning had a great...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Carolina Hurricanes Preview
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Hockey Gods were with the Tampa Bay Lightning on Friday night. Both the Florida Panthers and Winnipeg Jets failed to pick up much needed victories. If everything goes right for the Bolts tonight, they could go to bed Saturday sitting only one point back of 8th place in the Eastern Conference. On top of a Bolts win, the Capitals and Sabres would both have to lose. I...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Playoff Dreams Shattered with Brutal Loss to Canes
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
If that’s the best performance the Tampa Bay Lightning are going to be able to turn out on this home stand, fans better be prepared for a wealth of disappointment. Tonight, the Hurricanes proved that you don’t need the most talented roster to win in the National Hockey League; all it takes is a little hard work and a good system. The Bolts had their playoff hopes das...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning vs. Oilers Preview: A Victory is Needed
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Despite being all but out of the playoff race (barring a miracle), the Tampa Bay Lightning need a victory against the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday night. Unless this team wants to absolutely tank the rest of the season, which is unlikely based on the culture Yzerman and Boucher have created, a victory is imperative for confidence and getting back on the right track. Let�...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Beat Islanders: Worth Much More than Two Points
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
It’s tough to measure the impact that one win can have on an NHL franchise. Still, last night’s Lightning win against the New York Islanders should be counted as a big one. It’s not a big one because it keeps the Bolts mathematically alive in the Eastern Conference playoff race; it’s a big one because it showed heart and resiliency from a group that could have ea...
The Tampa Bay Lightning took to the ice at the MTS Centre to close the season on Saturday night. There were three key storylines to follow in what turned out to be a great end to the season.
[b]To read the full game re-cap, and many more pieces on the Tampa Bay Lightning, head over to Between the Benches.[/b]
[url]http://betweenthebenches.com/?p=1073[/url]
Thanks...
Over the course of the year, Eklund has been posting rumors that Guy Boucher may be headed to Montreal to take the head coaching job there. BTB columnist Mike Stuart takes a look at the situation and explains why he thinks Boucher will be in Tampa next year and for a long time.
[b]Check out the article over at Between the Benches![/b]
[url]http://betweenthebenches.c...
What would Calgary want? A first round draft pick would be the obvious starting point, what else that would be added to any potential trade would be totally up in the air. So in assuming that the Flames asking price is starting with a first, anything less would be not worth moving him, who’s first is most attractive? Obviously Edmonton’s but there is no way on both sid...
The Roberto Luongo era is coming to an end in Vancouver. Everything that has transpired over the past few days would indicate that Roberto Luongo is on his way out of Vancouver. Rewind the clock just two or three years ago and this notion would have been unthinkable. Now, with Cory Schneider all but dominating the Canucks’ crease, Roberto Luongo finds himself at a crossr...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Defending Steven Stamkos' Hart Trophy Nomination
Posted Monday | Comments 0
It feels like the Lightning fan base has to constantly come to the defense of its star players. After seeing the reaction to the Hart Trophy nominations, this week has been no exception. There was so much backlash towards Steven Stamkos for being nominated as “he didn’t lead the Lightning to the playoffs” – No, he didn’t. What did he do though? Well, not only did...
Goaltending rumors are everywhere right now. Speak to anyone in Toronto, Chicago, New Jersey, Los Angeles, Vancouver and here in Tampa and it becomes abundantly clear that this could well be the “summer of the goaltender” in the NHL. Names that come up often have been well documented here and by the mainstream media. You have Schneider, Luongo, Bernier, Harding, Lindba...
More and more it’s becoming abundantly clear that the Lightning will be holding onto the 10th overall pick at this year’s NHL Entry Draft in Pittsburgh. Whether you agree with the move or not, it shouldn’t come as that much of a shock when you consider that Al Murray, the Lightning’s chief amateur scout, has been quoted as saying that Steve Yzerman will be taking ...
Eklund recently posted a blog indicating that the rumors of Roberto Luongo to Tampa Bay are heating up and mentioned that the potential deal could be a Luongo for Lecavalier swap. The VL4/RL1 rumblings have been around for a few years now. Since the departure of Khabibulin, the Lightning have really struggled in the goaltending category. Roberto Luongo’s history in Flori...
The Mens’ World Hockey Championships are well underway in Europe. Despite not having the same reputation as Olympic hockey over here in North America, the WHC does provide fans with a great look at some international talent. To be asked to play in this event is, and always will be, a great honor for players. Team Canada, this year, has iced a very strong roster from t...
With the off-season for the Lightning in full-swing, it can be tough for bloggers like myself to pick up on storylines to write about. Still, the last couple of days have brought fans a couple of key tidbits to pick up on. First of all, there are conflicting reports coming out of Sweden regarding Mattias Ohlund and his desire to retire. Secondly, the Tampa Tribune is re...
Michael_Stuart writes...
A Plea to Fans of the Lightning and the Canucks
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Amidst reports of Mattias Ohlund retiring and Roberto Luongo being on the trading block, I have a plea for the Vancouver Canucks and their fans to read, and take in. Call me sentimental, call me old-fashioned, but this could work out incredibly well for both sides. Tampa Bay Lightning fans had great reason to be happy when the Bolts signed Mattias Ohlund a couple years a...
With the off-season in full swing and not a lot going on prior to the draft and free agency, bloggers like me don’t have a lot to talk about. So, in an attempt to generate some interest I’ve reached out to my Twitter followers for blog suggestions. Today, courtesy of @AlexMacLean4 and @_ConnorAndrews – I’ll be taking a look at two topics of conversation. First u...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Goaltending Woes: Is Andrei Vasilevski the Answer?
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
When the 2011-12 season concluded for the Tampa Bay Lightning, it was incredibly apparent that the team lacked a true number one goaltender. Dwayne Roloson looked over-the-hill, Mathieu Garon served as a good back-up and Dustin Tokarski simply seemed too raw to make an impact at the NHL level. Last season's failures are well documented and they all come down to the same ...
Michael_Stuart writes...
Lightning Draft Andrei Vasilevski and Slater Koekkoek
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
After a rather uneventful evening at the Tampa Bay Lightning draft table, the organization has come to acquire two very talented youngsters. Of course, the selections which took place at 10th overall and 19th overall were met with some controversy but as a whole, fans should be very happy with what transpired today! Get my thoughts on what happened with the Lightning ove...
This is pre-Phoenix, but I think the Edmonton game was a sign the Kings are headed back to last season's form/pattern. They've shook the cobwebs I mean the suds of the party/offseason off and are ready to be stingy on D and in net. The forwards can't score, yet, and that is how the Kings got it going last year. Great D and netminding, anemic offense.
Clifford is everyth...
This is pre-Phoenix, but I think the Edmonton game was a sign the Kings are headed back to last season's form/pattern. They've shook the cobwebs I mean the suds of the party/offseason off and are ready to be stingy on D and in net. The forwards can't score, yet, and that is how the Kings got it going last year. Great D and netminding, anemic offense.
Clifford is everyth...
Well, it's early, perhaps too early to be writing this, but where would the fun be if we didn't jump in and make some observations at this point? As I wrote just prior to the season, the short season could result in some surprising results, for both individual players and for teams, both good and bad. As examples, I stated that some teams who would normally be a lock to be...
I know that there’s a lot of buzz surrounding the Sabres right now. Personally, I’m a little miffed by this. However, I can understand why Sabres fans are very excited with the upcoming games. There’s thoughts of adding to the Sabres win streak with their next 3 opponents. They may even hit the season high win streak of 4 games! Sabres fans are starting to get excite...
[b]Ilya Bryzgalov, 33 - Philadelphia[/b]
Contract: $51.0m/9yrs
Buyout: $23.0m/14yrs
This contract is the definition of what the power of having a union can do for you. For most people who are fired or let go they are lucky to get severance and even if they do, that severance is almost nothing to kick back on and retire early with. Meet Ilya Bryzgalov.
The epitome o...
Hey I have some more moves that could help the Oilers be a playoff team this coming year.
I'm still hoping for a [b]Ales Hemsky[/b] for [b]Matt Matin[/b] trade, seems like a great fit for both teams. Skilled second line winger and set up man for a third line ball of hate, both teams fill a need.
[b]Ryan Malone[/b] 33 6-4 225 LW/RW 4.5 million cap hit signed until 14/...
Tonight, the Sabres actually held the lead for almost a full 30 seconds as time dwindled away in the 3rd period after a nice 4 way passing play that ended with Vanek depositing the Foligno pass for a 2-1 score late.
Within 25 seconds, it was back to business as usual.
Vanek, instead of attempting to hold the puck in off the offensive zone faceoff, instead did nothing...
Sorry I haven't posted a game recap for a while. A combination of a busy life combined with most of the last several games starting early means that I haven't watched as much Ducks hockey as I would like. Having lost 5 in a row (including to Tampa last week), the Ducks were looking to get back in the win column and avenge the prior loss. Also, an injury update and a trade ...
Samoht1000 writes...
Offseason: What should be done for the Tampa Bay Lightning?
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
With an unfortunate elimination in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Tampa Bay Lightning have a bright future ahead of them, and have much to build on.
Looking back at the playoffs, it was no surprise that with a young, inexperiences team, the Lightning would have a tough opponent in the Montreal Canadiens. Although I did believe that the Lightning could...
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Last year’s newly formed Atlantic division was headlined by the 2012-13 Eastern Conference Champion Boston Bruins and the finally-turned-east Detroit Red Wings. The Bruins did in fact lead the pack but trailing right behind was the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens. The Red Wings were able to inch into the playoffs l...
Last night, the Winnipeg Jets lost another game to Steve Stamkos and the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-2. An all too familiar result for the Jets and their fans as they continue to struggle out of the gates this season. This loss however, was especially frustrating as the Jets out-shot outhit and essentially outplayed the Bolts for most of the game. So who's to blame for this unl...
Last season, the Tampa Bay Lightning and Colorado Avalanche were near identical in almost every aspect. They both had a top three pick at the 2013 NHL draft, Colorado selecting Nathan MacKinnon from the Halifax Mooseheads number one overall and Tampa Bay taking Jonathan Droiun (MacKinnon’s line mate) also from the Halifax Mooseheads.
Both teams went out and made a tr...
AarifDeen writes...
MacKinnon scores a hat trick as Avs hold on to beat Tampa
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
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For the first time in almost five years the Pepsi Center crowd was treated to a hat trick by a Colorado Avalanche player. Nathan MacKinnon, just 19 years, 174 days old, scored his first career three-goal game in the NHL to break out of a 14 game scoring drought. It was the youngest Avalanche hat trick in tea...
Reddevil45 writes...
TB Lightning against Detroit Red Wings: Series Prediction
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
On one team there is a big question mark on who should be their starting goaltender and the other it is a no brainer. The Detroit Red Wings have put playoff rookie Petr Mrazek (.918Sv%, 2.38GAA) in net for game 1 of the season instead of veteran Jimmy Howard (.910Sv%, 2.44GAA). In the Tampa Bay Lightning net it won’t be difficult to decide who to play. Ben Bishop (.916Sv...
Reddevil45 writes...
Montreal Canadiens against TB Lightning: Series Prediction
Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Montreal Canadiens face the Tampa Bay Lightning in the second round. The last time these two met was in last year’s Stanley Cup 1st round where The Canadiens swept the Lightning. When they met Ben Bishop missed the series due to a dislocated elbow, which proved to be one of the main reasons for them getting swept. Bishop didn’t play at his best in the 1st six games...
Reddevil45 writes...
NY Rangers against TB Lightning: Series Prediction
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Eastern Conference Finals pits the Tampa Bay Lightning against the New York Rangers who have made the Conference Finals for the third time in four years. This series will put many former players against each other. Ryan Callahan, who is a game time decision after his emergency appendectomy a few games ago, Martin St .Louis, Anton Stralman and Brian Boyle face their old...
There are two paths the Sabres could take this offseason, and which one of the two is correct is up to the individual.
Path A is one of immediacy which consists of the Sabres looking to upgrade their top 6, specifically the right win position, ASAP. There are targets the team could make outside the almost endlessly mentioned obvious candidate who shall not be named to s...
In this article I will outline the top three teams' in the Eastern Conference entering the 2015-16 season. There's some moves still to be made, but I believe that the majority of the blockbuster deals are completed.
5. New York Islanders: ( 47-28-7 : 101 Points)
The Islanders finished the 2014-15 season with a first round elimination at the hands of the Washington...
rebel_deucer writes...
2015-2016 Early Playoff Predictions & Cup Champ
Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
For the fun as the season has had several changes here are my early predictions.
NHL Atlantic Division:
rn1: Tampa Bayrn
2: Montrealrn
3: Detroitrn
4: Floridarn
5: Bostonrn
6: Ottawarn
7: Buffalorn
8: Torontorn
I predict a dog fight between Montreal and Tampa, Tampa will emergeduring the season, with Detroit not far behind as the quality is still there despite ne...
[code]Tampa Bay Lightning backup goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy, 21, underwent a successful vascular surgery on Thursday, September 3, General Manager Steve Yzerman announced this morning. The surgery where performed to remove a blood clot from near his left collarbone and was successfully handled at the Tampa General Hospital, but will keep Vasylevskiy sidelined for 2-3 mo...
rangerdanger94 writes...
Hockeybuzz Fanstove: Who will win the Eastern Conference?
Posted Monday | Comments 0
Welcome to the first edition of the Hockeybuzz Fanstove.
This series, inspired by the successful Hockeybuzz Hotstove, will share the views of regular posters.
For our first question, we will tackle the Hotstove’s most recent question: who will win the Eastern Conference?
[b]mdw7413[/b]
I think it will be a toss-up between the Rangers, Bolts and Penguins if th...
In this article, I will outline which teams I believe will ice the top special team's index's this upcoming season. For those who are unsure what a special team index is; It is a number developed by adding both the PK% and the PP% of a specific team. As a reference point, last season the St. Louis Blues had the best index at 106, while the Sabres posted the worst index a...
We are 30 games into the 2015-2016 season, sitting on a record of 14-13-03, placing them as 6th in their division and 11th in their conference. In comparison to their record this past season which was 19-08-03 placing them near the top of the league.
What is the reasoning for this? Could the team still be healing from wounds sustained during the trip to the cup final...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 32- Tampa Bay Lightning v Columbus Blue Jackets
Posted Monday | Comments 0
When in need, you need a spark. Or in tonight's case, a bolt. Tonight, the Lightning travel to Columbus to play the Blue Jackets. The Jackets last played Saturday and suffered an overtime loss to the Islanders. The Bolts last played Saturday and suffered a regulation loss to the Capitals. Both teams are starting back to back match ups- Columbus plays in Dallas tomorrow...
Monday Dec. 14 The Bolts headed into Columbus to take on the similarly slumping Jackets after a 2-1 regulation loss Saturday night.
The Bolts have had their share of poor luck with injuries and at some point it's expected that the luck has to play in their favor. And on multiple instances that is what they got down around their net.
5 minutes in the luck starts as we...
2013 was a big draft, with plenty of names, including Nate MacKinnon, Alex Barkov, and Seth Jones around the league; and Alex Wennberg, Kerby Rychel, and Marko Dano in Columbus. This was a great draft with plenty of first rounders making it to the NHL. Now, there are two guys that have not cracked their roster yet, and are looking for new addresses as a result. With bo...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 69- Columbus Blue Jackets v Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Sunday | Comments 0
An early afternoon tilt for the Blue Jackets where they take on the Bolts. The Bolts appear to be a lock for the playoffs, but have lost twice to the Flyers recently. Revenge might be on their minds. The Jackets have made life for Detroit and Pittsburgh difficult, but not the Flyers.
Projected Lineups
Columbus Blue Jackets
Bonne Jenner - Brandon Dubinsky- Cam Atk...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Post-Game No. 69- Blanked By Bolts; Tampa Sweeps Cbus
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The home stand of the Blue Jackets continues with another loss, and this time it was to the Tampa Bay Lightning. The final score of the contest was a 4-0 shutout.
Tampa Bay got their goals in the final 40 minutes, and two by the captain. Steve Stamkos' first goal came 5:25 into the second period, and it was his 30th of the season; Nikita Kucherov (player to watch) had ...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ- Punch May Penalize Prout (But How Many Games??)
Posted Monday | Comments 0
The league is looking into an incident between Dalton Prout and Nikita Kucherov in the second period.
Midway through the second period, Ben Bishop (TBL Goalie) went behind his net to grab the puck, and CBJ captain Nick Foligno tripped him from behind leading to a scrum. Andrej Sustr and Nikita Kucherov were the first two to go after Foligno, and Prout came barreling in...
The Iceman writes...
Lack of scoring, killer instinct among what dooms Isles
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Frustrating, soul crushing, disappointing are just a few words that can be used to describe the feeling among all in Islander country after a 2-1 overtime loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning in game 4 of this eastern conference semi-final matchup. The lightning now have a commanding 3-1 lead in this best of 7 series with a chance to close it out Sunday back in Tampa Bay. The I...
Tbuck1102 writes...
Brayden Point and Dryden Hunt; a rivalry for years to come
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Two Western Hockey League teammates that led their team in scoring this past season and their futures as NHL rivals.
Brayden Point has gained a lot of attention since being selected 79th overall in the 2014 NHL entry draft by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Point was called a "hidden gem" by many around the hockey community after he burst onto the prospect scene in 2013-14 wh...
The Tampa Bay Lighting have some depth on their team, especially when it comes to goaltending.
With 7:35 to go in the opening period of Game One of the Eastern Conference Final, Lightning's starting goalie, Ben Bishop got injured.
In fact, Bishop had to be carried off the ice on a stretcher.
I thought that the Lightning's luck had ran out. I mean, the team have b...
Is Steven Stamkos going to be a New York Islander come July 1st? Well if you have a copy of the latest NHL video game, then yes he will be. It's time to address this rumor going around in regards to the one who will be the top UFA this summer. Well, more like bury this rumor that for whatever reason won't go away.
It began not long ago by Eklund, the annonyms one who r...
With both Steven Stamkos, Ben Bishop on the sidelines, I wonder how long Tampa is going to be competitive?
There's been rumours about Stamkos returning to the lineup before the third round is over, but he's not back yet.
The scary part is that Pittsburgh has a good chance of winning the cup and Phil Kessel winning the Conn Smyth Trophy. To a Toronto Maple Leaf fan, ...
I think the Tampa Bay Lightning will re-sign Steven Stamkos. he's their best player in my opinion, and they can be a great team without him, but can they get past the Penguins in this series?
I don't know.
Months ago, I wrote about Yzerman's conundrum in terms of the Drouin situation. I said his choice was to stick to principle or to cave into his demand, expressing doubt that he would stick to his principles.
But he did, and to my surprise, it all paid off.
Yzerman is not out of the water since he has a Stamkos issue to worry about, but now that the Drouin situatio...
Where are all the Lightning blogs? Has every lightning fan that was once a part of this community left for another website? which one ? I want to come too! THIS SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 21- Columbus Blue Jackets v Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Blue Jackets welcome the Bolts to the Nationwide Arena tonight. These two teams last played on Black Friday, and revenge might be on the mind of Tampa Bay.
The Lightning are a very explosive team, even with the loss of Steven Stamkos. The dynamic forward sustained a long term injury in a matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. They are also without former Blue Jacke...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 21- Columbus Blue Jackets v Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Blue Jackets welcome the Bolts to the Nationwide Arena tonight. These two teams last played on Black Friday, and revenge might be on the mind of Tampa Bay.
The Lightning are a very explosive team, even with the loss of Steven Stamkos. The dynamic forward sustained a long term injury in a matchup against the Detroit Red Wings. They are also without former Blue Jacke...
The Columbus Blue Jackets scored five straight goals to defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning by the final score of 5-1.
In the first period, the Blue Jackets opened the scoring off a snap shot from William Karlsson. Wild Bill sniped the puck on the blocker side of Andrei Vaslievisky for the goal. For Karlsson, it was his second goal of the season. Josh Anderson and Ryan Murr...
Zak MacMillan writes...
CBJ Game No. 41: Columbus Blue Jackets @ Tampa Bay Lightning
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Columbus Blue Jackets continue their Southern road trip with back to back matchups in Florida. First, the struggling Tampa Bay Lightning.
Tonight is a special night for the Bolts as they retire a legendary player for the franchise in Martin St. Louis. Number 26 will be raised to the rafters. The un drafted winger played most of his career with the Lightning, and wa...
The Calgary Flames marched into Tampa Bay looking to rebound from a disappointing loss to the Nashville Predators a few nights ago. A game in which while they weren’t awful, they weren’t good enough to win. They had some good looks, but with .1 seconds left let the Predators tied up the game. Overtime they went, and the Flames dropped the game. Perhaps they deserved a ...
So, it has come to this : some rando forum member writing Lightning blogs because HB refuses to have an official Lightning team blogger. My name is Mike G., but let's roll with "Galactic Stone" for now.
Some quick background on your new blogger : I am 52 years old, married for 23 years to my wife Tina, and when I am not watching/posting about hockey, I am a full-time m...