The Tampa Bay Lightning have made the playoffs only five times in their history and twice since their Stanley Cup in 2004.
However, with new GM Steve Yzerman and several high draft picks on their team, this season could be their best since they last made the postseason in 2007. Led by Rocket Richard winner Steven Stamkos, who tied Sidney Crosby with 51 goals in 2009-10, the Lightning are in the best position they have had in a while to return to the playoffs.
They have only five 20-goal scorers from last season, but with the additions of Simon Gagne and Brett Connolly, that number is almost certain to go up at least some.
Therein lies their problem: Tampa Bay had the 24th ranked offense as well as the 27th ranked defense in the NHL last season, a combination that is certain to keep a team out of the playoffs year-in and year-out.
Dan Ellis, who will most likely be their starting goaltender in 2010-11, must play well enough in net for the Tampa Bay Lightning to win many close games. He will be the difference if the Lightning are to make a good playoff push throughout the season, especia ...
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Article written by Tyler Hobbs
NHL 2010 Outlook: Tampa Bay Lightning
August 12th, 2010 by Tyler Hobbs Leave a reply »
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