Montreal took advantage of a stagnant Boston effort in games 5-7 to rally from a 3-1 deficit and take their series. Riding the super-hot line of Alexei Kovalev, Saku Koivu, and Richard Zednik, the Canadiens made an excellent comeback after Kovalev’s monstrous gaffe in game four.
The Lightning had no problems with the Islanders, shutting down their offense and turning them aside in five games, three of which were won in a shutout. Martin St. Louis’ explosiveness and athleticism was on full display as he demonstrated why he is the most dynamic player in the game today.
Tampa Bay is just too much for Montreal. The only hope for the Canadiens lies in keeping their top offensive line rolling. If Tampa Bay can shut that line down, look for the Lightning to make the first conference final in franchise history. Tampa Bay cruises to victory in five.
