Lightning's Slump Tests Playoff Credentials

NHL stories, making news on March 15th.

The Teba Bay Lightning have hit a rough patch since the Olympic break and trade deadline.

After a strong opening win, they've dropped seven of their last nine games, struggling

to find their rhythm with just a month left in the regular season.

Earlier this week, a poll from the Athletic Showed Experts still have high hopes.

56% of their NHL staff predict the Lightning as Stanley Cup final runner-up, with 8% picking

them to win it all.

They see a rematch loss to the Colorado Avalanche.

Fans and analysts are giving them the benefit of the Dow for now, pointing to past comebacks

like their 2021 Cup run after a slow finish.

A bad week happens, but this skid tests their playoff credentials.

Corey Perry has been a bright spot at 40 years old.

In five games since joining, he scored two goals and added an assist, even dropping

the gloves to spark the team amid offensive droughts.

Meanwhile, defense remains a big worry with injuries piling up.

Max Crosier is out for the season, and 35-year-old Victor Headman has looked off.

They're often trailing early with no clear fix, but their offense keeps games close as

they limp toward the playoffs.

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