By Jake Ricker
Last night, the Lightning would start a four-game road trip in a place where they have only won three games. The Lightning put forth a good effort but would again fall short. Here is everything we noticed from the Lightning's 5-3 loss to the Minnesota Wild.
Fast Start
The Lightning have not had a good history when it comes to playing at Xcel Energy Center, but tonight, out of the gate, felt different. The Lightning played fast and efficiently, picking up 15 shots to the Wild's 6. The Lightning also picked up the game's first goal on the power play, which is something they had struggled with early in the season.
Overall, it was a solid 20 minutes, with the Lightning playing good defense and creating chances. Unfortunately, the Wild made adjustments and looked much better after the opening period. Still, If they can continue to start games like tonight, they should put themselves in great positions to win more often than not.
Power Play
The Lightning Power play finished 2/4 on the night but looked night and day compared to what we have seen before. It's no secret the Lightning power play has struggled since losing Steven Stamkos, and it is going to take some time to get back to the 30% success rate they had last season.
Tonight was a step in the right direction. It wasn't so much the personnel on the ice that made the difference but how they moved the puck. The Lightning were able to make a few quick passes and then get a shot on goal. This created more rebounds and less time for the Wild to disrupt them trying to set up a perfect play to Kucherov. If they can continue to build off this momentum, the Lightning will only get better with their 5-on-5 play already much improved.
Road Troubles
The Lightning have just three wins when playing the Wild on the road. For whatever reason, the Lightning just can't find a way to win on the road in Minnesota. With just three wins on the road it has been an impossible place to play for the Lightning.
With that said, the Lightning played a much better game overall. There were a lot of positives to build off of, and credit where credit is due. The Wild played a great game tonight and is a very good hockey team. Unfortunately for the Lightning, it looks like it will take a perfect night to get a win against the Wild on the road.
Next up for the Lightning, they will head to Winnipeg to take on the Jets. Puck drop is scheduled for 3 PM EST on Sunday.
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