For the Tampa Bay Lightning, the All-Star break comes with good and bad feelings.
For a road weary club, the five day respite from the brutality of NHL competition is a welcome relief.
Yet in some ways, Tampa Bay doesn't want to stop playing hockey.
With the 2-0 shutout of the Toronto Maple Leafs last night, the Lightning won their fifth straight and their 10th of the last 14 games.
Sniper Steven Stamkos has taken over the race for the Rocket Richard Trophy (leading goal scorer in a season) and remains just a point behind the injured Sidney Crosby for the Art Ross (leading point producer).
Goalie Dwayne Roloson registered his third shutout in 10 games since joining the Lightning.
The Lightning have been particularly deadly in games decided by one goal, where Tampa Bay has amassed a 17-3-5 record with a 5-2 record in shootouts (including five straight shootout wins).
Making the plays in close games has been the difference in this year's squad.
"Everything we've gotten up to now," Head coach Guy Boucher told the St. Pete Times, "we've gotten because we've worked hard.
It's enab ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by JC De La Torre
Thundering To The All-Star Break: Tampa Bay Lightning Win Fifth Straight
January 26th, 2011 by JC De La Torre Leave a reply »
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