Struggling Offense Needs a Spark
The Tampa Bay Lightning have gotten off to a sluggish 1-2-1 start to the season, and their offense has been a major culprit. Through four games, the Lightning are averaging just 3.3 goals per game, a far cry from the high-powered attack that has made them one of the NHL's elite teams in recent years.
Star winger Nikita Kucherov and speedy forward Brandon Hagel have both struggled to find the back of the net, combining to miss 20 unblocked shot attempts so far. Even the typically reliable Victor Hedman has been off the mark, missing the net on just two shots.
Lineup Changes Could Provide a Spark
In an effort to jumpstart the offense, the Lightning have made some lineup changes ahead of their matchup with the Detroit Red Wings on Friday. The team has recalled defenseman Steven Santini and forward Scott Sabourin from their AHL affiliate in Syracuse.
Santini, 30, provides some veteran stability on the back end, while the physical Sabourin, 32, could add some much-needed grit and energy to the forward group. It remains to be seen if these tweaks will be enough to get the Lightning's attack firing on all cylinders.
Red Wings Riding High
The Lightning will have their hands full against a Detroit Red Wings team that has gotten off to a strong 3-1-0 start. The Red Wings have been led by the impressive play of goaltender Cam Talbot, who has stymied opposing offenses early on.
Detroit will be looking to continue their hot start and prove that they are a legitimate threat in the Atlantic Division. A win over the Lightning would go a long way in solidifying the Red Wings' status as an up-and-coming team in the Eastern Conference.
TL;DR
- The Tampa Bay Lightning's offense has sputtered out of the gate, averaging just 3.3 goals per game
- Key players like Nikita Kucherov and Brandon Hagel have struggled to find the back of the net
- The Lightning have made lineup changes, recalling defenseman Steven Santini and forward Scott Sabourin from the AHL
- The Lightning will face a tough test against the 3-1-0 Detroit Red Wings, who have been led by the impressive play of goaltender Cam Talbot