After a dismal performance, and disappointing loss against the Buffalo Sabres, the Tampa Bay Lightning are back in action this evening with a game scheduled against the New York Rangers. At this point in the 2013 season, it’s fair to say that both the Lightning and Rangers have been underwhelming at best. Simply put – both of these teams come into tonight’s tilt with a level of desperation that should provide for a very hard fought, passionate game.

Despite being a point in front of the New York Rangers in the Eastern Conference standings, the Lightning know that this Rangers team is a superior opponent. The Lightning have already lost twice to this Rangers team, and they know full well that the Blue Shirts defend leads better than any team in the league. This is not a matchup of equals; this is a measuring stick game for the Lightning, who currently sit in a three-way tie for first place in the Southeast Division with the Carolina Hurricanes and Winnipeg Jets.

For the Lightning, tonight’s tilt provides an opportunity to snap a two game losing streak. Two games ago, the Bolts were outscored early in the first period by the Pittsburgh Penguins before rallying back with inspiring confidence in a losing effort. Last game, the Bolts laid an egg. The Sabres did everything they possibly could to give the Lightning the win, but it was not to be. The question now becomes which Lightning team we will see tonight. Will it be the inspired, confident, dangerous team that finished the Penguins game, or the lackadaisical, frustrated team that played against the Sabres? Time will tell.

The Rangers haven’t been any better than the Lightning in recent games, and have lost their last four contests. Head coach John Tortorella is visibly frustrated, his players are struggling, and the team just seems to be missing something. Considering all the talent laden throughout the Rangers roster, don’t expect this losing streak to last much longer. Rick Nash and company are far too good to be this bad for much longer.

Mathieu Garon is scheduled to get the start in net for the Lightning, signaling a shift in the Lightning coaching staff’s mentality. After a run of solid performances, Garon is finally being given the chance to lead this team. This will be his second consecutive start and, if he plays well, don’t be surprised to see him get a few more. Anders Lindback started the season well, but has struggled in recent weeks.

Another thing that bodes well for the Lightning is the fact that the offensive guns are hot. Steven Stamkos is on a six game goal scoring streak, Cory Conacher is flying on a six game point streak, and the supporting cast is doing their bit as well. If this Lightning group is going to win tonight, everyone is going to need to continue contributing to this offensive run.

Unfortunately for the Bolts, Sami Salo has been ruled out of tonight’s contest with the lower body injury he suffered in the second period of last game. As a result, the Bolts have recalled Brendan Mikkelson to slot into the lineup. Lightning head coach Guy Boucher is expected to dress seven defensemen and eleven forwards for tonight’s tilt.

All in all, tonight’s game is not going to be easy for the Lightning. As mentioned, this Rangers group is ridiculously talented. Having already beaten the Lightning twice this season, the Rangers will certainly have confidence heading into this one. The Lightning had best be ready.

As always, thanks for reading. Predictions?

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