In this edition of the hotstove, we discuss whether the Tampa Bay Lightning or Florida Panthers are more likely to rebound from their slow starts.
Todd Cordell
I wouldn't be surprised if both teams end up making the playoffs but I'm going to say Florida.
Despite all the drama off the ice and their poor record of late, they've actually been playing some pretty good hockey. In their last 10 games, they are controlling ~56% of the shot attempts and ~53% of the scoring chances. They have outplayed teams but the goaltending hasn't been there -- they have a .904SV% at 5v5 in their last 10 games -- and they've been losing as a result.
When Roberto Luongo/James Reimer get back on track they should be fine.
Peter Tessier In my most humble opinion, I think Tampa has the best tools and roster to turn it around when compared to the Panthers. Now that doesn't mean the team and/or management doesn't have to do something too.
Both teams are good when looking at CA/60 with Florida being a bit better and Florida is better when looking at total Corsi %. Where the big difference is PDO- Florida is near the bottom of the league. They should rebound, right?
Why the hell am I choosing TB when Florida looks like the better bet to rebound then? I think the front office stuff has an effect. It's old-school thinking in a new age world but some things have a way of never losing their impact and unless Dale Tallon can find some stability I think the problems spill onto the ice and Tom Rowe might not be the best guy to fix it all.
James Tanner I think you'll see them both in the Playoffs. For my money, Tampa has the best roster in the NHL along with Pittsburgh and the Blues. I don't think Florida is too far behind, either.
They will both need to get healthy, but I think they'll both be fine.
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