The Lightning are out of the running for the Presidents Trophy which the Detroit Red Wings have clinched. This may or may not be an excellent thing to have happen. The Presidents’ Trophy, presented to the NHL in 1985-86 by the League Board of Governors to recognize the team compiling the top regular-season record. In case of a tie, the team with the most wins, is considered cursed in some circles as only 6 of the teams that have won the award have gone on to win the Stanley Cup (’87 Oilers, ’89 Flames, ’94 Rangers, ’99 Stars, ’01 Avalanche, ’02 Red Wings). Only a third of the 18 previous winners.
So dread not Presidents’ Trophy Loss, it may very well be the Lightning’s gain.
Speaking of Trophy gains — the Lightning, by winning the season series with the Florida Panthers — have won the Nextel Cup.
Meanwhile, back at the ranch, Fredrik Modin notched his 57th point which is a career high. Martin St. Louis’ 15th short handed goal as a Bolt surpassed Rob Zamnuer for the team record.
And one more goal sets the all time single season record for goals scored for the Bolts — which is all but assured (barring over-the-top intense play by the Thrashers) on Saturday.
