Game 2 between the Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lighting of the First Round NHL Playoffs takes place tonight. The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. start time and it will be televised nationally on CNBC. Currently the odds for the game have the Tampa Bay favored at home.
Montreal picked up a 5-4 win in overtime during the opening game of this series. Anders Lindback had to make the start in between the pipes for the Lightning, the guy who wasn't successful against Montreal during the regular season.
Lightning goaltender Ben Bishop was dominant against the Canadiens this season. Tampa Bay was 3-0-1 against Monreal during the regular season but Bishop wasn't able to give it a go on Wednesday, which could have made a major difference in the contest. The loss for Lindback was only his second post season start for his career.
Montreal reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2010 and if they can get another win here tonight in Tampa Bay, they'll be feeling great about their chances to advance in this post season. Carey Price made just enough saves in Wednesday's game, but obviously didn't play up to his standards. Price surrendered the lead during the third period two times, but in the end the Canadiens still got the victory. Price tied for the third best save percentage during the regular season and made 21 saves during the game.
Steven Stamkos scored twice for the Lighting, but he acknowledged after the game that they have to play better defensively.
Dale Weise got the game-winner for Montreal. He had just six regular season tallies but was in the right spot at the right time Wednesday. A Brian Gionta shorthanded goal in the second period tied the game and was a major swaying point during the game.
Tonight, look for Tampa Bay to continue rolling out shots against Price. He faced only 25 shots in the win on Wednesday, but will probably have to make more than that tonight. Tampa Bay will play better defensively, but will Lindback have a good game in goal?
Montreal got the proverbial "steal" in Game 1 of this series. If the Lightning can't come away with a victory in tonight's game they'll be facing an 0-2 road and heading on the road, where they were 21-17-3 this season. We expect a solid effort from the Lighting tonight. They should win the game.
Free Pick: Tampa Bay 3, Montreal 2