MAGICAL STORY: Tampa’s star leaves as he wants new chapter.
From a workmanlike perspective, Anthony Cirelli’s game-winning goal against visiting Columbus on Tuesday evening was no less than a thing of beauty. The Tampa Bay center outbattled Blue Jackets’ defenseman David Jiricek, corralled the puck and patiently put a backhander past goaltender Jet Greaves to give his team a 3-2 third-period lead in an eventual 5-2 verdict.
Not only did Cirelli become the seventh Lightning player to reach the 20-goal plateau, but it was the type of play that underscored the level of desire Tampa Bay possesses even after clinching a playoff berth. Indeed, this is the time of year when, with only a few games remaining, refining one’s game is essential before the curtain rises on the playoff derby.
“It’s making sure that we are looking after the little details in our game,” said coach Jon Cooper, following the Columbus match. “It is imperative that we do not slip.”
Perhaps falling behind by three goals after 40 minutes at Pittsburgh last Saturday and locked in a battle with a Columbus club with no chance of finishing anywhere but in the Eastern Conference basement constitutes a bit of slippage, though the Penguins have rallied to battle for a playoff spot.
Regardless, a core of two-time Stanley Cup winners led by captain Steven Stamkos understands a strong finish will ward off bad habits. While the Lightning went on a 10-1-1 roll from March 9 to April 4 to clinch a playoff spot, this is no time to let up on the gas.
“The core guys and the guys that have been brought in are well aware of the situation that we are in right now,” said Stamkos. “We want to feel as good as we can about our game these (last few matchups.)”
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