By Michael Wax
It's now a best-of-five, as the Lightning were blown out by the Maple Leafs 7-2 in Game 2 of their first-round matchup. Here are three things we noticed from the loss:
What Kind of Turnover?
Defense translates to offense, or at least that's how the saying goes. In this one, the Lightning couldn't generate offense cause they couldn't get out of their defensive zone. Farr too often, the Lightning gave the Leafs a grade-a chance thanks to a defensive turnover off a failed clear or breakout pass. These turnovers, coupled with missed assignments, helped the game get away from the Lightning real fast.
Giveth and Taketh Away
With the injuries to Hedman and Cernak, the Lightning needed massive games from their defensive veterans. One veteran who was all over the place, mostly in a negative way, was Ian Cole.
Cole's penalty 40 seconds into the game gave the Leafs the early power play to get their lead and dictate the pace of the entire game. Though more of a reactionary play off a bad turnover from Killorn, it reinforced an issue that reared its ugly head through the regular season: Cole's propensity to take penalties. He would take another penalty later in the third period with the game out of reach, and missed several assignments including the back check on Tavares' second goal of the game.
On a bright note, Cole's goal early in the second gave the Lightning some life after their problematic first frame. If Hedman and/or Cernak can't go in Game 3, the Lightning need Cole to perform much better.
Better Call Paul?
Aside from Ian Cole, the Lightning need a much better effort out of Nick Paul. Paul currently has eight points (and only one goal) in his last 40 games, resorting to playing physical rather than scoring. He's been at his peak when he's able to do both, and he just hasn't taken the charge either, averaging just 1.2 shots on net per game over this stretch. With no points since March 18 (14 games), the Lightning need Paul to put up some numbers.
Three Stars
Media’s three stars
1. Tavares (TOR) - 3 Goals
2. Reilly (TOR) - 4 Assists
3. Schenn (TOR) - 1 Fight
Our three stars
1. Tavares (TOR) - 3 Goals
2. Reilly (TOR) - 4 Assists
3. Marner (TOR) - 2 Goals, 1 Assist
Game three will be Saturday, April 22, at 7:00 p.m. at AMALIE Arena.
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