Lightning on Thin Ice

In the National Hockey League, the Tampa Bay Lightning are inching towards a playoff berth; however despite having the two of the top scoring threats, Vinny Lecavalier also Marty St. Louis, the Bolts are struggling in goal. This could handicapped the club's playoff hopes. Neither Holquist nor Marc Dennis have been consistent in goal. Both players, moreover, have been taking turns letting in soft goals. Tampa Bay is playing with the same consistent hustle and voracious fore checking that defined 2003 Stanley Cup champions. Yet, the hockey equivalent to basketball rebounding is stalwart goal tending, and the Lightning aren't getting it consistently. Currently, the New Islanders are receiving great net minding from Rick Depietro. Against the Rangers, he played brilliantly by stopping 56 goals. That's what turns also rans into serious playoff contenders. Tampa Bay may not be in the playoffs long without better goaltending.