Tampa Bay Lightning - New York Islanders Stadium: Amali Arena (Tampa)
Tampa Bay Lightning (Position 3rd Div.N.29-NP.7-US.3-H.17 Term.181-147)
Even with a home disadvantage in the first two (2) phases (with Florida and Carolina), Tampa Bay showed that Hockey is their sport and advanced to the semifinals. From the beginning of the playoffs they have shown tremendous stability and quality and show that as last year's champions they want to do the back-to-back, something that since 1993-1994, only two (2) teams from one (1) have achieved. ) time each (Pittsburgh and Detroit). In the last match, they defeated the Hurricanes 0-2 away from home in a big game where they never felt that they would get away. They hope tonight to do their job again and taking advantage of their strong headquarters, to prevail in 1ο game getting the necessary psychological boost. Known absentees Gaborik M. (E.), Nilsson A. (T.) who are missing from the beginning of the season.
New York Islanders (Position4η Div. Ν24-NP8-US7-Η. 17 Term.156-128)
Their image this year was good for the season. But not so firm to say that the "New Yorkers" will manage with a home disadvantage in two (2) rounds and against very strong teams (Pittsburgh and Boston) to advance to the semifinals. And yet they did it fairly and I take my hat off to them. I honestly did not expect it. But now again with a home disadvantage they want if they succeed if they reach something final, which they have to achieve from 1983-1984 when in the period 1980-1984 they were mediocre !! In their last game, they defeated the Bruins 6-2 and advanced emphatically to the semifinals. Their goal is to achieve one (1) victory in these two (2) first matches and for them to gain the "home advantage" as they did in the first two (2) rounds. Lee A. (E.27 assists / 12 goals / 7 assists), Dal Colle M. (E.26 assists / 1 goal / 3 assists) and Wahlstrom O. (E.49 assists / 13 goals / 11 assists) are absent again.
The "Lightnings" are terribly serious from the moment the playoffs took place, but also throughout the year. On the contrary, the "Islanders" were probably formed at the right time. From 2002 until today in a total of thirty-nine (39) games, they have lost one (1) time, back-to-back from their home opponents. Last time they lost in overtime. I do not think the scenario will be repeated at this time. Ace.
