Oh, and the game is on MSG 2 (Cablevision ch. 14 or 414) here in New York and starts at 7:30; the Vancouver game also started at that late time and you remember what happened then ...
Where We Are: Hopefully not having too much fun in the sun of Florida. The Rangers have consistently played down to the level of their opponents and it will be too easy to slack off in Tampa, especially coming off of a strong home win.
Where They Are: They got their hats handed to them by the Devils on Sunday 7-3. The scary thing is that Ollie Kolzig made some utterly incredible saves and yet he still gave up five goals on 28 shots over a period and a half before being pulled. The Tampa defense was absolutely horrid and allowed 45 shots by the Jersey offense. Jersey offense. Did you ever think those two words would be put together in any other way than 'Jersey kills offense' or 'Jersey has no offense' or 'Jersey smells offensively?' Who To Watch For: Vinny04. No matter how bad the team is around him, Vinny Lecavalier remains one of the top all-around talents in the NHL. Ryan Malone, who was -4 in the Devil debacle, has always been tough on the Rangers. And Steve Stamkos is getting more ice time now that Melrose is gone and - as we saw early in the season - the kid has some serious skills.
What To Watch For: See which defenseman hurts his team more - Marek Malik or Michal Rozsival. But for the bigger picture, watch to see if the Rangers can find the motivation to show up against a terrible team with a joke of a coach. (Sorry Rick, you are almost as bad as Barry. On Sunday it appeared as though he was asking Gary Roberts for coaching advice during the game. Pathetic!)
What We'll (Hopefully) See: Scott Gomez to score a boatload of points to prove how wonderful everyone says he is. Blair Betts to score again and continue his campaign for the Selke Trophy. And most importantly, a motived Ranger team that is playing like they have something to prove.
Also Check Out: Both Lightning Strikes and Bolts Blog do well to keep up with the goings on of the Tampa team and are well written. However, neither mentions that they are giving away Vinny Lecavalier 'third jersey' tee shirts at tomorrow's game ...
As always, I recommend people check out Sam Weinman's Ranger Report for up-to-the-minute updates on our boys.
Peepin' Foes: Tampa Bay Lightning - A Force to Be Reckoned With
In the world of professional ice hockey, the Tampa Bay Lightning is a name that commands respect and admiration. Established in 1992, this franchise has transformed itself into a powerhouse within the National Hockey League (NHL). In this article, we will explore the fascinating journey of the Tampa Bay Lightning, their notable achievements, and their impact on the world of hockey.
I. The Birth of a Franchise
The Tampa Bay Lightning made their debut in the NHL during the 1992-1993 season. The team was part of the league's expansion, which aimed to introduce hockey to new markets. The Lightning brought the thrill of ice hockey to the sunny state of Florida, and they quickly gained a devoted fan base.
II. Early Struggles and Building Blocks
The Lightning's early years in the NHL were marked by struggles and challenges. Like many expansion teams, they faced difficulties in establishing themselves as contenders. However, this period laid the foundation for future success.
III. Rise to Prominence
Stanley Cup Victory: The turning point for the franchise came in the 2003-2004 season when the Lightning, led by captain Dave Andreychuk and coach John Tortorella, won their first Stanley Cup. This historic victory put them on the map as a force to be reckoned with.
Superstar Talent: The Lightning has been home to some of the most talented players in the NHL, including Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis, and Steven Stamkos. These players have consistently delivered impressive performances and contributed to the team's success.
Consistent Playoff Contenders: The Lightning's commitment to excellence has made them a regular presence in the NHL playoffs. They have consistently competed at a high level, earning respect from fans and opponents alike.
IV. The Impact of the Tampa Bay Lightning
Hockey in Non-Traditional Markets: The Lightning's success has played a pivotal role in expanding the popularity of ice hockey in regions not typically associated with the sport. They have shown that hockey can thrive in warmer climates.
Community Engagement: The franchise has been actively involved in community outreach programs, promoting the sport of hockey and supporting charitable initiatives. Their efforts have made a positive impact on the Tampa Bay area.
Inspiring Young Players: The Lightning's achievements have inspired a new generation of hockey players in Florida and beyond. Many young athletes look up to Lightning players as role models.
A Competitive Legacy: The Lightning's competitive spirit and drive for success have left an indelible mark on the NHL. They are regarded as one of the elite franchises in the league.
V. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How did the Lightning get their name?
A1: The team's name, the Tampa Bay Lightning, was chosen to reflect both the speed and power of lightning, emphasizing their commitment to being a formidable force in the NHL.
Q2: Who are some notable players in Lightning history?
A2: Notable players in Lightning history include Vincent Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos, Dave Andreychuk, and Nikita Kucherov, among others.
Q3: What is the significance of the Lightning's victory in the 2003-2004 Stanley Cup?
A3: The Lightning's victory in the 2003-2004 Stanley Cup was a historic achievement, marking their first-ever championship win. It solidified their place as a competitive and respected franchise in the NHL.
VI. Conclusion
The Tampa Bay Lightning's journey from an expansion team in a non-traditional hockey market to a dominant force in the NHL is a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport. With a storied history, a commitment to community engagement, and a roster of exceptional players, the Lightning have left an indelible mark on the world of hockey. As they continue to compete at the highest level and inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike, their legacy in the NHL remains strong and enduring.
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