Lightning Continue Winless Streak

The start of a new NHL season means that teams get a fresh start for a lot of different things.  Team’s records are wiped clean and everyone starts from 0 again.  In the Tampa Bay Lightning’s case, they also got to start the season with a completely re-tooled defence, made some key moves up front, and signed a new back-up goalie.  However, one key factor remains the same from season to season (with a few exceptions) and that is, the FANS.  These same Lightning fans have now watched their team go without a win (either at the St. Pete Times Forum or on the road) for twelve straight NHL games, as the team ended last season without a win in 9 games.  The team has continued its winless streak into this season, going 0-1-2 in their first three games.

At this point, it would be easy for fans that maybe haven’t been following the Lightning closely for the first few games, to write off the team as the same deal as last year.  However, there are several bright spots this season that weren’t there in the 2008-2009 season.  For starters, the Lightning have yet to be outshot in a game this season, something that was a chronic problem in the past.  Also, NHL sophomore Steven Stamkos looks to be continuing his hot streak from the end of last season, with 4 points and 3 games thus far.  Lightning starting goaltender Mike Smith, with the exception of the first game against Atlanta, has looked solid in net and has come up with some HUGE saves, especially in last night’s game against New Jersey.

Lighting Goalie Mike Smith makes a big save on Devil's Travis Zajac.

The brightest light for the Lightning so far though would have to be Victor Hedman.  He has 3 points in his first 3 games, was +2 last night against the Devils, and has been logging between 24 and 27 minutes a night.  This kid has a really great skill level and has tremendous vision.  These two facets of his game (and believe me, they’re not all his brings) were really exemplified against New Jersey, and Lightning fans who didn’t see the game should watch the highlights HERE.  The entire play Hedman makes which ends with a perfect pass to set-up Todd Fedoruk’s goal is particularly impressive.

All these little good things aside, the best thing the Tampa Bay Lightning can do right now is to win a game!  And this Saturday’s home game rematch against Carolina (who barely beat the Lightning on Tuesday) is the perfect opportunity to do just that!  Go Bolts!