DETROIT — Like Justin Abdelkader’s importance to the Red Wings, forward Ryan Callahan’s value on the Tampa Bay Lightning’s top forward line cannot be understated.
Playing much of the season alongside first-rate goal scorer Steven Stamkos, Callahan has provided much of the dirty work necessary to open up space for his linemates. With a heavy forecheck and a physical, pestering presence in the offensive zone, Callahan creates plays by being a disruptive force at both ends of the ice.
“He gets the job done,” defenseman Jonathan Ericsson said. “He plays in the gritty areas, he’s not afraid to go in there, he plays hard every night, he’s got a low center of gravity so it’s tougher for a guy like me and my size to get down there and have good body position on him.