Rested and refreshed, Lightning ready for final stretch to keep playoff hopes alive

by Erik Erlendsson | @Erik_Erlendsson | Like us on Facebook
March 20, 2017

TAMPA, Fla. – When the Lightning last left the ice at Amalie Arena on Saturday, the team looked beaten and worn down.

After finishing off a stretch of six games in 10 days while enduring late-night travel delays getting out of Ottawa. With a patchwork lineup, the Lightning pushed hard until the end of the stretch.

But with 11 games left on the schedule and Tampa Bay chasing a playoff spot, even getting two days off between games can be a welcomed relief.

And that’s what the previous two days did for the Lightning as they head in to must-win game against Arizona on Tuesday looking refreshed and rested, not to mention a little healthier, as they reset to mindset.

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After the Saturday night loss to Washington, the Lightning stepped away from the ice on Sunday, taking part in the annual Bolts Family Carnival, interacting with fans during a charitable afternoon filled with video games, bubble boy hockey, table tennis and plenty of pictures.

”I thought is was real enjoyable and it was nice to come in to an event where, we are always surrounded by our fans but we never really get to interact with them,’’ Lightning head coach Jon Cooper said. “This was the time to interact on them and see the looks on some little kids faces and the excitement and awe when they see some of these players, they’re their idols. I just thought it was great to be around.”

It also provided a positive vibe to hear the faith the fan base still has in the team for the final playoff push.

”The fans were just giving us encouragement, they have so much belief in what we are going to do in making the playoffs,’’ Cooper said. “It was just enjoyable for me.’’

For the players, it was the opportunity to keep the gear stored in the locker room for a day, get away from the rink for not only a physical rest, but a mental break as well.

”Definitley you get a little bit of time off,’’ winger J.T. Brown said. “Even just playing video games (with fans) at the Carnival, it’s still a good rest day. But it’s good to get back to work here and get ready for an important game.’’

With 20 days left to play 11 games, any chance to rest and recover is crucial.

”It was good, the carnival was a good chance to interact with the fans, see the kids and stuff like that,’’ defenseman Victor Hedman said. “Then we had a good practice, get a little more rest to get ready for a big game.

“There are not a whole lot games left or a whole lot of points to play for, but we play teams around us. We play Boston twice, we have Toronto again, Montreal, so we know we can do it, it’s just a matter of executing.’’

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