TAMPA BAY, Fla – For many of the estimated 1,200 fans in attendance at day 2 of camp with the Tampa Bay Lightning, the mere fact that they had live hockey to watch again was satisfying enough. But for rookie head coach Guy Boucher it is a matter of instilling the effort and style of play he is looking for, and searching for daily progress.
According to the Lightings’ official website, after day one Boucher felt he was not getting a consistent effort from everyone on the ice. Sunday Boucher was happier with the effort and intensity and he also noted they still have work to do.
The highlight of both days was an intrasquad scrimmage and Sunday’s session offered fans a look at some new stars working with familiar faces. Vinny Lecavalier was lined up with Simon Gagne, and 2009 first round draft pick Carter Ashton. 2010 first round choice Brett Connolly, was working with Steven Stamkos, and Marty St. Louis. Coach Boucher was pleased with both youngsters ability to “keep up” with their respective linemates.
It was St. Louis and Stamkos that wowed the Lightning faithful with constant pressure throughout the scrimmage on seemingly every shift.
The pair connected on the first goal of the game, when Marty St. Louis centering pass deflected off the back of Stamkos skate and past goaltender Mike Smith. Both Smith and newcomer, Dan Ellis looked sharp in goal. Ellis set the tempo early when he snatched a point blank shot off the stick of Lecavlier in the first minute. Throughout the session the team demonstrated some of the hard work and “relentless” effort Boucher is looking for.
When the scrimmage ended in a 2-2 tie Coach Boucher allowed time for a shootout and it was invitee, Eric Perrin who scored the only goal to give the “Black” squad the win. Expectations are high for the Bolts this year as they look to return to the postseason and on Sunday it looked as if the formula for success seemed to be taking shape. Clearly the team seems to have the talent to compete for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoff field.
For Coach Boucher and the Lightning how quickly they can rise to the challenge of blending new faces, and a new coaching staff with returning stars may be the difference. Clearly one of the intriguing story lines as the new season begins, on Sunday we saw glimpses of the potential that is the 2010-11 Tampa Bay Lightning.
As the Bolts break camp and head out for their first preseason games they know there is not much time to prepare for the long grind ahead.
Contact the author at Comment@prohockeynews.com Editor’s Note: Joe Malta recently joined Pro Hockey News to cover the Tampa Bay Lightning.
