Takeaways from 2015 Finals Game 2

Tampa jumped out to a strong start again last night, scoring the first goal.

And just like game 1, Chicago came roaring back to take a 2-1 lead.

I honestly believe that was a turning point.  Either Chicago would hold that advantage or score the next goal.  And if that happened, the Lightning probably had little chance of winning the cup.

But it didn’t.

The Lightning struck twice to take a 3-2 advantage.  Chicago would score one more before the Lightning quickly answered.

Lightning win 4-3 and the series is tied 1-1 before heading to Chicago on Monday night.

Keys to the game according to The Hockey Writers:

1. Paquette Line Getting the Best of Toews Line
After producing quite a bit in the three previous rounds, the Toews line has been relatively unproductive through the first two games.  Other than producing an assist on the Blackhawks’ third goal, the line has been pretty quiet.  One of the biggest reasons for the lack of production is 21-year-old Cedric Paquette.  Along with linemates Ryan Callahan and J.T. Brown, Paquette has welcomed the chance to go up against Toews and the top line of the Blackhawks.  So far, the Paquette line has had the advantage.  Toews praised the Paquette line’s effort so far, but seems to be as confident as ever heading into Game 3 in Chicago.  “They’re working hard. They’re playing good hockey — smart, defensive hockey.” We’ve just got to stay with it. Saad had a great chance 2-on-1 early in the game. I had a great chance where it bounced right off my stick — a great set-up by Kaner. So one of those go in and maybe you’re not asking those questions as much.”

2. Trouble in the Crease for Tampa?
Towards the end of Game 2, Tampa Bay had to turn to Andrei Vasilevskiy in replace of Ben Bishop.  Bishop had not seemingly played too poorly, so it is speculated that Bishop may have re-aggravated a previous injury.  After the game, Jon Cooper’s lips were sealed as to what may have happened to Bishop, saying “I hate to be that guy,” I know I talk way too much when I get up here, but I will not answer a question about the goaltending or what happened tonight.”  Bisohp’s availability will be in question for Game 3, but the Lightning are ready to roll regardless.  Vasilevskiy, a 20-year-old rookie, finished the game admirably, blocking all five shots that he faced against the Blackhawks in the final minutes.  He has been a pretty solid goaltender for the Lightning this year, so only time will tell if the rookie can answer the bell for the rest of the series if Bishop is unavailable.

Check out the remaining 3 key takeaways at The Hockey Writers.