Opinion
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Clash of the Titans: Calgary Flames to Test Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena

As the Tampa Bay Lightning gear up to host the Calgary Flames at Amalie Arena, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter. The recent form of the Lightning suggests that they are in a position to dominate on their home ice, and here's why.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy (88) guards his net against the Calgary Flames during the second period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game against the New Jersey Devils on February 25th, TB showcased an impressive offensive performance, netting four goals and demonstrating their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities with a shooting percentage of 15 percent. Their strength was particularly evident during even-strength play where they scored all four goals from 24 shots. This level of efficiency in converting shots into goals will be crucial when facing CGY.


Defensively, TB was just as formidable against NJD. The goaltending was impeccable with a save percentage rounding up to 100 percent and only one goal allowed out of 19 shots. This defensive solidity is something that TB can bank on going into their next game.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames center Dillon Dube (29) scores a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

However, it wasn't all smooth sailing for TB in recent outings. Against Washington Capitals on February 23rd at Amalie Arena itself, despite putting up three goals and firing off more shots than in their previous game (32), they fell short by two points. A critical area for improvement would be power plays where they failed to convert any of their opportunities into goals.


The upcoming match against CGY presents an opportunity for redemption and showcasing that home advantage truly matters for TB. With solid even-strength play and goaltending being consistent factors in recent performances, these will be key areas where TB could edge out CGY.


Jan 21, 2023; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames defenseman Chris Tanev (8) controls the puck against Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos (91) during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

On the other side of the rink stands CGY who will not make things easy for TB by any means. They have shown resilience in past games but will need more than grit to overcome a team like Tampa Bay Lightning who seem poised and ready after bouncing back strongly from any setbacks this season.


Fans should mark their calendars for March 8th when these two teams collide at Amalie Arena under the bright lights with puck drop scheduled after sunset local time. For those unable to attend in person, you can catch all the action live either online via ESPN+ or through traditional broadcast on BSSUN TV network – ensuring you don't miss a moment of what promises to be an electrifying hockey night in Tampa.

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