Tampa Bay Lightning
Lightning beat writer Erik Erlendsson breaks down the Eastern Conference semifinal series between Tampa Bay and Montreal:
Forwards
LIGHTNING: Tampa Bay had its way offensively against the Canadiens with its deep group of forwards. In five meetings, 10 Lightning forwards scored at least one goal each, led by C Steven Stamkos with five. The Lightning can send any line out in any situation and feel comfortable.
CANADIENS: The Canadiens were led by 37-goal scorer Max Pacioretty, along with 20-goal scorers Tomas Plekanec, Brendan Gallagher and Alex Galchenyuk. While Tampa Bay might have more skill, Montreal might have a slight edge in the grit department with Dale Weise, Brandon Prust, Devante Smith-Pelly, Torrey Mitchell and Gallagher, who all play with an edge, especially around the net.