Yesterday marked the anniversary of the Tampa Bay Lightning winning its first-ever Stanley Cup. It was a cornerstone night for the franchise, but even as Tampa was skating around with Lord Stanley, there was the uncomfortable backdrop of the impending lockout in the NHL.
And as it was, the 2004-05 season was canceled, stunting any momentum the Lightning may have had to defend its crown.
But what if a deal could have been reached soon, and Tampa could have had a chance to defend its title in 2004-05?
Tampa Bay Lightning: Waiting is the hardest part
On paper, Tampa was still in good shape had there been a 2004-05 season.