A few thoughts on tonights game:
1) With Kucherov injured, Johnson injured, Bishop injured, it's not going to be easy.
2) We're not going to win 1-0 so attack attack attack. I can stomach losing this thing if it's 7-6 or something more than I can another 2-1 game. Our game is speed and offense, and if we go out trying to impersonate the 90's Devils, then it'll be an utter disappointment.
3) Stamkos has to step up. He takes a lot of heat on here (rightfully so) but he's the captain, and teams don't win Cups when their captain completely disappears. It's not just goal-scoring, it's his positioning and passing as well... it's all been terrible. He's got to wake up. I know there's pressure and Chicago is scheming to take him out of the game, but the Messiers, Lemieuxs, and Yzermans of the world find a way to contribute. Not that he's in their league, but that's a captains role. With the injuries, he's hands-down our most talented forward now so get it done Stammer!
4) What the hell is going on with Crawford? Is it true that he and Mrazek are leagues better than Lundqvist and Price? That just can't be so go out and SCORE SOME FREAKIN' GOALS!!!!! Shoot the puck, screen Crawford, be in position for rebounds and score dirty, score pretty, just light that guy up!
5) Is everyone else feeling like game 7 at home would be a harder game to win than tonight? We have been so disappointing at home. Complete reversal of the regular season. Let's win tonight and then I'll take my chances at home but something will have to change in the way we prepare. Maybe we should require all Lightning fans to wear Hawks sweaters for Game 7. Haha!
6) Lines need to shift. Cally and Stammer, or possibly Drouin and Stammer. Carle and Sustr can take shifts in the hotel or the concession stands but don't let them anywhere near the ice. Roll four defensemen: the same four who allow us to play offense and not spend entire shifts scrambling in our defensive zone. Coop needs to do something bold tonight. Can't play the same lineup when his usual lineup is missing valuable/healthy pieces.