Game 3: NJ in Tampa Preview

Tonight is the season opener for the Lightning. We're hosting the also struggling New Jersey Devils.

Enemy blog: Running with the Devils

The Devils are off to their worst start in 8 years, losing 2 games in a row. They have a new coach, who, is just more defensive than the last one. But they have also beaten us the last 8 times we've met.

Tonight Mike Smith will need to have a strong game against the Devils. The top line of "Lecavalier-Tanguay-instert name here" will need to start producing, because 2 points (assists) in 2 games for Lecavalier and Tanguay is terrible.

Line up stuff?

• Stephane Veilleux will be back up at Vinny's winger, with the experiment of Steven Downie moving down to the 4th line. The search for a right wing for Lecavalier and Tanguay still goes on, and with only 2 assists for the line so far, I hope that they find a good fit soon
• Kurtis Foster is practicing, but it isn't likely that he'll play, though he might be in the lineup by Saturday.
• Mike Smith will get the start again in goal tonight.

Game time: 7:30pm ET. Updates to follow as they happen.

It's official, Tanguay is a Bolt

The Lightning have on their webpage the official announcement of the signing today.

Since there's been so much speculation already it doesn't seem that big of news, but don't get me wrong, I'm really pleased with the signing. Tanguay is pretty much a point a game player, and the contract is a steal, providing that he doesn't spend half the season injured.