The Tampa Bay Lightning and their division rivals, the Carolina Hurricanes, are set to drop the puck on a contest that has already been described as a “make or break” moment for the Bolts. With only 21 games remaining in their season and roughly 15 more wins needed to make the playoffs, the Lightning are in tough if they want to get back in this race. Like at this time last year, this season is slipping right through the Lightning’s fingers.

The Lightning come into tonight’s contest having lost three of their last four games. Despite incredible goaltending from Anders Lindback, the Bolts just couldn’t get the job done. Effort has been lacking, a killer instinct has been non-existent, and the team is practically handing points away to opposing groups. Simply put – the Lightning aren’t brewing up a recipe for success here.

Considering the struggles that have been plaguing the Lightning’s offense in recent games, a game against the Carolina Hurricanes could be just what the doctor ordered. Already this year, the Lightning are 2-0-0 against the Hurricanes, having scored nine goals in those contests. In his last contest against the Hurricanes, Steven Stamkos capped off the Lightning’s offensive charge to seal the deal on a 5-2 victory. Tonight, Stammer will be looking for goal number 200 of his career.

Mathieu Garon will get the start in goal tonight, considering his success this season against the Hurricanes. He has started in both Lightning victories this year. Tonight’s start marks his first since being injured a couple weeks ago against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Prior to his injury, Garon had been playing really well and giving the Bolts a chance to win whenever he took to the ice. You can bet that Guy Boucher is counting on more of that tonight.

Also of note is the fact that Benoit Pouliot and Vincent Lecavalier remain out of the lineup with injuries, while Tom Pyatt is questionable. If Pyatt does end up playing, he brings the Lightning so many intangibles that have been missing since his departure. He’s fast, he’s hard-working, and he wins more puck battles than he loses. Against a division rival, intangibles can go a long way.

Yesterday, the Lightning waived fourth liner Adam Hall. Today, it was announced that the Hurricanes had claimed him off the wire. It is expected that he will be in the lineup tonight against the team that cast him aside just 24 hours ago. Hall was always a hard-working player for the Lightning, and there were times when he played key minutes and a big role. Here’s wishing Hall success in his new home, and nothing but the best.

The division leading Hurricanes are leading the division for a reason, and the Lightning are going to have to be ready. Eric Staal has once again proven that he is one of the most dominant forwards in the league, Alex Semin has fit in beautifully, and the supporting cast has done its part to chip in when needed. Despite an injury to Cam Ward, the Hurricanes just keep plodding along. They’ve been impressive, dangerous, and just plain good. As mentioned, the Lightning are going to have to bring their A-game to come out with a victory.

All in all, this game is pretty much a must win for the Lightning. There’s no other conclusion that can be reasonably made.

As always, thanks for reading. Predictions?

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