Opinion
4 min read

Tampa Bay Lightning's Surge to Overcome Panthers' Prowess at Amalie Arena

As the Tampa Bay Lightning prepare to face off against the Florida Panthers, fans are bracing for an intense battle at Amalie Arena. The upcoming game on April 27th is not just another mark on the calendar; it's a chance for the Lightning to showcase their resilience and strategic prowess.


Apr 21, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman (77) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the second period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with the Panthers on April 21st, the Lightning fell short by a single point, ending with a score of 2-3. Despite this narrow defeat, there were positive takeaways from that game that could signal a different outcome in their next clash. The Lightning managed to land 60 hits and block an impressive 21 shots, demonstrating their physicality and defensive capabilities.


However, one area where TB needs significant improvement is in faceoff win percentage. Winning only 46 percent of faceoffs in their previous matchup against FLA indicates room for growth in puck possession right from the drop. This will be crucial as controlling play often translates into scoring opportunities.


Apr 21, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett (9) shoots the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

The powerplay performance was one bright spot for TB during that game; they capitalized once out of two opportunities—a powerplay goal conversion rate of 50 percent. If they can draw more penalties and maintain or improve this efficiency, it could be a deciding factor in overcoming FLA's defense.


On even strength during their last meeting with FLA, TB scored once but allowed two goals against them—indicating that while they can hold their own at full strength, there is still work to do when it comes to outscoring opponents during regular play.


Apr 21, 2024; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Michael Eyssimont (23) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the second period in game one of the first round of the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back further provides additional context: In an electrifying performance against Toronto Maple Leafs on April 17th, TB dominated with six goals to four despite being outshot. Their shooting percentage stood at an outstanding 19 percent compared to Toronto’s mere ten percent—showing that when TB shooters find their mark, they do so with lethal precision.


Against Buffalo Sabres on April 15th though, TB couldn't capitalize enough despite winning over half (54 percent) of faceoffs and firing off more shots than Buffalo (33 vs. Sabres' 34). It was another close call where every shot mattered as they lost by two points (2-4).


The key takeaway here is consistency—TB has shown flashes of brilliance but needs steadiness across all aspects of play: offensive execution during powerplays and even-strength situations along with tighter control from faceoff circles.


With these insights in mind and playing before home fans thirsty for victory after recent setbacks—the stage is set for Tampa Bay Lightning not just to strike but thunder down upon Florida Panthers come game night!


Fans eager not just for redemption but also thrilling hockey action can catch this pivotal match live on Saturday night at Amalie Arena starting at 5 PM EST or tune into TBS or any other associated networks like truTV or TVAS among others listed above.

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