Preview: Anaheim Ducks at Tampa Bay Lightning

Anaheim Ducks (28-15-9) at Tampa Bay Lightning (22-24-6 50pts): GAME 52

Time: 7:30pm EST

Location: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Broadcast/Streaming: SUN, FS West

Opponent SB Nation Site: Anaheim Calling

Preview:

Recently the Lightning traded away defenseman Nikita Nesterov to Montreal for Jonathan Racine and a sixth-round pick. With his second start for the Habs on Thursday, Nesterov immediately registered a goal for the club. This really epitomized the Lightning’s season.

Throughout the season there has been growing skepticism from fans about head coach Jon Cooper’s utilization of the roster. Although some have the sentiment that Nesterov became this year’s scapegoat, we have yet to see Slater Koekkoek consistently in the lineup. Currently sitting second-to-last in the conference in front of Detroit, the Bolts might as well be trade deadline sellers at this point. With Ben Bishop a free agent and the expansion draft taking place soon, expect Yzerman to make some moves as the deadline approaches.

The Bolts played the Ducks on the first of the year, losing 1-2 in overtime. Although this was a solid game for Tampa Bay, John Gibson stood strong in net for the Ducks, stopping 28 of 29 shots for the night. Bolts forward Brayden Point might continue his two-game point streak tonight, and Syracuse call-up Jake Dotchin continues his stint in the NHL.

Effort and morale has been at a season low and recent players’ post-game interviews have been bleak.

Strong words from #TBLightning leader Brian Boyle after tonight’s 5-2 loss. More locker room reaction ahead on @WFLA. #BoltsSocial #OTTvsTBL pic.twitter.com/HT3wX6B3ze

— Paul Ryan (@WFLAPaul) February 3, 2017

But speaking of, Brian Boyle recently became the Tampa Bay Lightning’s official LGBTQ Ambassador.

Our #YouCanPlay ambassador for our Pride Night on Feb. 23 will be our own @bribrows22 ⬇️ https://t.co/NkharCStLn

— Tampa Bay Lightning (@TBLightning) February 3, 2017