Opinion
3 min read

Clash of Titans at Amalie Arena: Lightning to Strike the Avalanche

As the Tampa Bay Lightning prepare to face off against the Colorado Avalanche at Amalie Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a high-voltage encounter. The upcoming game on February 16th is not just another mark on the calendar; it's a testament to Tampa Bay's recent form and their electrifying presence on home ice.


Nov 27, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy (88) during the second period against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The Lightning have been nothing short of spectacular in their recent outings, showcasing a blend of resilience and firepower that has left opponents scrambling. Their last game against the Washington Capitals was a nail-biter that went all the way to a shootout, with TBL emerging victorious by a slim margin—2 points to 1. This win was underpinned by an impressive display of goaltending, as they saved all but one of 34 shots, maintaining an impeccable save percentage.


But it wasn't just about defense; TBL's offense has been firing on all cylinders too. In their clash with Vegas Golden Knights just before Christmas, they lit up Amalie Arena with 5 goals from 36 shots—a shooting percentage that would strike fear into any goaltender. Their powerplay clicked efficiently as well, converting twice out of four opportunities.


Nov 27, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Colorado Avalanche center Ryan Johansen (12) hits Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Tanner Jeannot (84) in the first period at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Even more impressive was their dominant performance over St. Louis Blues where they hammered in six goals and skated circles around them with an overwhelming shooting percentage and winning goal accolade.


The Avalanche will certainly pose a challenge for TBL; however, based on recent performances and statistics alone, there is every reason for optimism among Lightning fans. The team’s ability to capitalize on powerplay opportunities could be pivotal against COL who will need to be wary of giving away penalties against such an efficient unit.


Nov 27, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Michael Eyssimont (23) shoots the puck in the first period against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

COL comes into this game aware that they're stepping into the Thunderdome—Amalie Arena—where TBL has shown time and again that they can dictate play both defensively and offensively. While respect is due for COL’s own skill set and competitive spirit, it would take something extraordinary to dampen Tampa Bay’s charge given their current momentum.


As we count down towards puck drop at Amalie Arena in Tampa FL (zip code: 33602), fans should mark their calendars for February 16th when this thrilling encounter takes place under the bright lights—and potentially thunderous cheers—from home supporters. For those unable or unwilling to brave what promises to be an electric atmosphere live can catch all action nationally via ESPN+ or locally through BSSUN channel 653 or ALT channel 681 depending upon your allegiance.

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