Tampa Bay Lightning
MONTREAL — May is sweeps month.
For the Lightning and their second-round playoff opponent, Montreal, the beginning of May instead offers a chance to erase memories of a sweep at the hands of the other.
And advance to the Eastern Conference finals.
With Game 1 tonight at Bell Centre, the Lightning look for payback after Montreal swept them from the postseason in the first round last year. The Canadiens, meanwhile, have a bitter taste in their mouths, as well, after Tampa Bay won all five meetings during this regular season.
Both teams know the ultimate prize is winning the series and advancing, but revenge can be an extra motivation.