Lightning Stay On Track

[Lightning]

With a big test against Oilers who currently sit 1st in the west the Lightning rose to the occasion and kept things rolling at 7-2-1 in their last 10 games. Hischier, Killorn and Lee all got on the score card to give the Lightning a hard fought 3-2 victory over the Oilers that saw O'Reilly get ejected for a high stick on Seth Jones. After the game O'Reilly reiterated that it wasn't intentional but we are all responsible for our sticks and he took it on himself to apologize to Seth on the ice before heading to the locker room. The Oilers responded with 2 goals from Nichushkin and Marner before Lee got the final goal of the game to seal the win. Binnington was his usual self from there on out stopping 8 shots to close out the 3rd period and win the game.

The addition of Palmeri has really seen the Lightning's power play improve as we see them climb up the Power Play ratings since his addition. Adding a little more offensive punch to the roster has made the Bolts more dangerous around the net and also allowed them to balance the roster and more evenly distribute their scoring threats. Stuck at 3rd line center the Lightning were able to shuffle some players and move Jeff Skinner to the left wing on the 2nd line where he is more comfortable and able to contribute offensively. This allows the Bolts to move player's like TJ O'Shie into a 3rd line role playing spot that he easily can do here in the latter part of his career. The key here is that the Lightning finally have solid scoring punch and depth across their top 2 Iines at forward with plenty of support from the defense over the past month. With the team currently cruising and running along at 2nd in the east, they've managed to do so despite some major injuries to Lee and Hischier. While Swayman has been struggling a little bit this month Binnington has maintained his brilliance from the crease and is often found as one of the stars of the game after the teams have left the ice, taking a quick turn for the fans at Thunderdome arena.

In what was a slow start to the season fans have been thrilled with the Lightning's play this year with the stadium at or close to capacity for every home game. Hopefully the Lightning can keep things rolling and make a splash in the playoffs this year.

Tampa