Can shot-blocker Tanev stop Lightning strikes?
THE BIG MATCHUP Nikita Kucherov versus Chris Tanev
Only Alex Ovechkin (30) had scored more goals than Nikita Kucherov (27) heading into league play Friday. The league’s top point producer (64) and Hart Trophy contender is complemented by Steven Stamkos, who was fourth in scoring with 59 points (19-40). Tampa is third in even-strength scoring and fourth in power-play percentage. It’s tough enough that the Bolts have a fast and ferocious forecheck, they also come at you from all angles. It’s why Chris Tanev, who blocked seven shots Thursday against Chicago, will have to sacrifice his body once again to keep elite players from adding to their totals.
FIVE KEYS TO THE GAME 1. All aboard the Horvat train
Bo Horvat is the engine that drives the offence because the centre drives himself. Sidelined for 18 games with an ankle fracture, he maintained an elite level of fitness. He shook off early rust upon his return, and by scoring in the last two games — especially by bolting into the offensive zone and establishing a needed net presence — he set the competitive tone. “I expected that and put pressure on myself, and so far, it’s been good,” he said.
2. Can Gaunce build on goals?
Travis Green will take a solid shutdown show from Brendan Gaunce because the Lightning average a league-high 32.4 shots per game and put up a seven spot on the Flames on Thursday. But the first two-goal NHL game by the left winger against the Blackhawks — making it just five goals in 109 career games — has suddenly added another intriguing dimension. “I couldn’t hear the fans,” said Gaunce. “I zone out right after scoring.”
3. The big-hit Gudbranson effect
One way to slow down an elite club is to hit. Erik Gudbranson had four hits Thursday — including a wipeout of Ryan Hartman — in his return from injury to set the team’s 20-hit tone. Scouts noticed. And his presence rubbed off. Sam Gagner delivered a thunderous check on Tomas Jurco, but was injured on the play, and Sven Baertschi dropped Anthony Duclair. Michael Del Zotto had a five-hit night and Alex Edler added four.
4. Boeser is making team better
Brock Boeser didn’t have a point Thursday but made a great play on Bo Horvat’s goal. The Calder Trophy contender did the dirty work behind the Blackhawks net, digging out a loose puck and threading a pass to the point, while being hounded and falling to the ice.
5. Down goes Gagner, in goes Dowd
Nic Dowd will likely draw in with Gagner sidelined and the centre certainly won’t hurt to help keep the puck away from the Lightning. Neither team is great in faceoff efficiency, but Dowd, who sat out the last two games, leads Vancouver with a 52.6 percentage.