With only six games remaining in their 2013 season, things are winding down for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Despite the fact that the playoffs won’t be in their fortunes, the Lightning still have some business to attend to. Tonight, the Bolts are up in Winnipeg where they’ll meet the Jets for the fourth and final time this season.

For the Winnipeg Jets, tonight’s contest is of the utmost importance. Currently in ninth place in the Eastern Conference, the Jets sit two points shy of eighth place and four points shy of the Southeast Division lead. Simply put, they need wins and they need them now. From an outsider’s perspective, it’s hard not to cheer for the Jets. Seeing that team in the playoffs would bring a big smile to most of the hockey world.

With that said, the Jets should be fairly happy with their chances heading into tonight’s contest. After being embarrassed by the Lightning back in early February in an 8-3 game, the Jets came back strong and have since won two tight games against the Bolts. Given that and the fact that they’ve won three straight games, and you can bet that the Jets will come out with confidence this evening.

On the other side of things, the Lightning really don’t have much to play for other than pride. As mentioned, the playoff dream for this club has faded and it’s pretty clear that fans have moved on to thinking about the draft and free agency. Jon Cooper’s resolve and ability to inspire his group despite lifeless circumstances will be tested this evening.

One day after signing a two year contract extension worth a reported $4.6million, Ben Bishop will get the start in net for the Lightning. Since coming over from the Ottawa Senators via trade, Bishop has provided the Bolts with some much needed stability in net. Along with Anders Lindback, Bishop gives the Lightning youth, promise, and a whole lot of size in goal.

The Lightning have been struggling in recent days, so if the guys want to do something to save face before the end of this season it would behoove them to wake up and play a full sixty minutes. The giveaways and lackluster defensive play have to end tonight if the Bolts want any shot at two points. While “Sucking for Seth” might be an attractive option for some, this Lightning team has far too much pride and far too much fight left to simply roll over. The Jets are going to be ready to go, and logic would dictate that the Lightning will be looking to get back on the winning track. Fans should be in for a good hockey game.

As always, thanks for reading.

For the record, if the Lightning can’t make the playoffs, this blogger will be supporting the Jets and their quest for a post-season berth. Go Jets Go!

Join the Discussion: » 42 Comments » Post New Comment

» Brown, Paul Combine for Canada's Golden Goal at World Championship

» Senators to Select 10th Overall; What Should They Do with the Pick?

» Finding the Right Centerpiece

» Senators Team Awards Ballot

» Melnyk Speaks