Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Nick Perbix (48) celebrates with the bench after his goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs during the first period of an NHL hockey game Wednesday, April 9, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
The Olympic has ended, and it feels like a second opening night for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers. Both teams sit in the pack of Eastern Conference playoff hopefuls and know that every game now matters more than ever. The race tightens in late February, and small details can make the difference between a long spring and an early summer.
Tampa Bay enters the post Olympic schedule in a strong spot in first place in the Atlantic Division, with a record 37-14 with 78 points and a healthy goal difference that shows good two way play. Recent results before the break gave the Lightning momentum, including wins that pushed them up the conference table. Stars up and down the lineup bring high expectations in Tampa, and fans want another deep playoff run.
The Lightning’s focus after the break will center on tightening their defensive zone and staying disciplined with the puck. Their scoring remains dangerous, but the coaching staff wants cleaner exits and fewer penalties in key moments. If the goaltending stays sharp and the power play keeps producing, Tampa Bay can climb even higher and fight for home ice in the first round.
Panthers Are Looking Tired
The Florida Panthers sit a little farther down the standings at 29-25 with 61 points in 8th place but stay close enough to keep pressure on the teams above them. They hover near a wild card position, which means a strong run in March and early April can change their whole season. Florida knows that a slow start after the break would make the climb harder, so urgency will be high right away.
For the Panthers, the path forward includes getting more balanced scoring and winning tight, low scoring games. Their leaders must set the tone with smart plays in all three zones and strong special teams. A better record in one goal games could flip the standings picture quickly. If they tighten up defensively and get timely saves, a return to the playoffs stays within reach.
Fans in Tampa and Sunrise will watch the standings every night. With both teams in the same division, every head to head game counts double. The post Olympic drive feels like a new season, and both the Lightning and Panthers have a real chance to make it one to remember with a strong playoff push.
