Maple Leafs Rivals Report: Crossing The Atlantic
By Tim Chiasson
Feb 8, 2015; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Brian Boyle (11) and Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Ondrej Palat (18) congratulate each other after they beat the Anaheim Ducks at Amalie Arena. Tampa Bay Lightning defeated the Anaheim Ducks 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning remain in the top spot in the division, but for how long?
The Eastern Conference powerhouse team went 2-1-1 this week with victories over Dallas and Anaheim, a regulation loss to the Los Angeles Kings and an OT loss to the St. Louis Blues.
Tampa continues to battle injuries to their blueline which has led to their inclusion in trade talks as of late.
The Leafs GM Dave Nonis took in a Lightning game this week as the Leafs may have the cure – Franson/Gardiner – to what ails the Lightning.
Steven Stamkos, Tyler Johnson and Valtteri Filppula continue to lead the way for the Lightning.
Tampa Bay placed Evgeni Nabokov on waivers last week and he cleared, leading to much speculation about his future.
That speculation was confirmed today when the Lightning sent Nabokov to the San Jose Sharks for future considerations so the veteran goaltender could retire with the team who drafted him.
Next Three Opponents: Nashville Predators, St Louis Blues, San Jose Sharks
Next: Montreal Canadiens