With the postseason in arms reach, the Lightning look to build on the physicality of their game
Washington Capitals at Tampa Bay Lightning
Puck Drop: 7:00 pm EST
Location: Amalie Arena
Where to Stream: Bally Sports Sun, ESPN+
STORYLINES
The Lightning and Capitals are playing their third and final matchup of the season tonight at AMALIE Arena.
With the postseason officially in arms reach, the Lightning will look to build on their 4-0 win over Carolina. Their response on Tuesday night was centered around their overall play on defense. They kept Carolina’s scoring chances to a minimum, won puck battles, and were successful in clearing the puck from the defensive zone. When you reflect back on the past three years of Tampa Bay Lightning hockey, defending is what has helped bring them so much success this time of year.
In addition, the Lightning stepped up the physical aspect of their game, doubling Carolina’s hit total. Mikhail Sergachev led the effort with 5 of the 28 hits for the Tampa. He’s had 14 points over his last 12 games.
They need just four points to clinch their sixth consecutive trip to the postseason and fifteenth trip overall in franchise history. The Bolts are 1-1-0 vs. the Capitals this season following a 5-1 loss Nov. 11 at Capital One Arena and a 6-3 win Nov. 13 at AMALIE Arena.