It's not all double-rainbows, is it? Lightning at Washington Capitals preview

WHERE: Verizon Center, Washington, District of Columbia
WHEN: 7 PM EST | | TICKETS: Check Availability
MEDIA: Sun Sports, NHL Network (cable), 970 WFLA (radio)
OPPONENT COVERAGE: Japers' Rink, Kings of Leonsis

We're past the half-way point of the NHL season, and we're in an entire new year. But right now, the first-half looks like a double rainbow right now, in comparison with the Bolts of 2012 so far.

The Lightning have all of one point in 2012 (yeah, yeah, 2012 has been a total of five-games, please don't interrupt the narrative, I'm working here). They are winless in their past five games, and are 3-5-2 since before Christmas.

Goalie inconsistency is part of the problem, defensive inconsistency is another, injuries running rampant through the roster is another. Does it all seem fitting that this bad luck is being listed on Friday the 13^th?

The Bolts head to Washington to take on the Capitals, who haven't exactly had a season of smiles, either.... But they're eight points in front of the Bolts in the standings, 2^nd place in the Southeast Division, and obviously doing something right through advertsity of coaching changes and under-performance.

The plan for tonight includes the Lightning going back to a 12-forward, 6-defender lineup. The past two games have introduced Brendan Mikkelson to the Lightning's defemsove scheme (as the team has played with 7 defenders). No telling if he gets to play tonight or Bruno Gervais.

Dwayne Roloson gets the start after making a relief appearance yesterday against the Hurrianes.

Other Previews

Tampa Bay Lightning official team preview

Tampa Bay Times

Full game coverage on SB Nation

Tickets

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