1. Tampa Bay Lightning – It’s a depressing thought for us Caps fans. Tampa Bay has advanced past the second round twice in the past 2 years while the caps have that many 3rd round appearances in their history. Yet, Tampa’s success is not a surprise. A franchise that has thrived the past 2 seasons despite significant injuries, they maintain a high powered offense that doesn’t simply rely upon superstar Steven Stamkos. Nikita Kucherov scored 30 goals last year, and defenseman Victor Hedman had 37 assists. With other weapons like Tyler Johnson, heart and soul guys Ryan Callahan and Antron Stralman and big Ben Bishop making up for what some might argue is a slight weakness in defense after Hedman and Stralman this team is poised to go deep into spring once more.
Washington Capitals Season Preview: Atlantic Divison Preview
