The Blackhawks & Lightning Provide A Whole Lot Of Star Power
Wednesday, the Tampa Bay Lightning host the Chicago Blackhawks in Game 1 of the 2015 Stanley Cup Final. Both teams are coming off hard-fought 7-game conference finals. The Blackhawks are looking to become a dynasty by winning their third cup in the last six years (2010, 2013). The Lightning, who came into the NHL in 1992 as an expansion team, are making their second final appearance, while looking to win their second ever Stanley Cup (2004).
The Blackhawks are led by superstar RW Patrick Kane, who has had a phenomenal postseason, tallying 10 goals and 10 assists. Not to be outdone, fellow Chicago star Jonathan Toews has contributed 9 goals and 9 assists of his own.
On the Lightning side of the equation, center Tyler Johnson has been incredible during Tampa's playoff run, posting a league leading total of 12 goals, while contributing 9 assists. Center Steven Stamkos has also played extremely well to date, notching 7 goals and 10 assists for the Eastern Conference champs.
The higher seeded and younger Lightning took 3 of the 5 possible points from the Blackhawks this season. The Lightning may come in a little more fatigued, playing in 20 games this postseason, including 2 Game 7's. By comparison, the Blackhawks have played 17 total playoff games.
This has a chance to be a highly entertaining Stanley Cup Final, with a winner potentially decided in a 6th or 7th game.
