The NHL playoffs will drop the puck starting Wednesday and with the new playoff format the seedings mean little to nothing concerning the match ups. The first series we will look at is the No. 3 Tampa Bay Lightning vs. the No. 4 Montreal Canadians
Breakdown: Every single first round series looks like it could have been a conference final and credit the NHL for making this playoff format change. These teams are incredibly similar on paper and with a win against the Capitals Sunday, the Lightning claimed home ice. This will play a huge role as the atmosphere in Montreal is electric and could be crippling to a young Lightning team. This is as close a series as you will get in a playoff and it’s only the first round
Canadian to Watch: P.K. Subban
Subban was benched for his defensive struggles, but remains an offensive powerhouse for the Habs. Subban thrives on the big stage and in the spotlight that it wouldn't surprise me if the 2013 Norris Trophy winner ends up being the biggest factor in this series. Can Tampa Bay slow him down?
Lighting to Watch: Ryan Callahan
The other half of the Martin St. Louis trade, Callahan, has had more luck in Tampa than St. Louis in New York. Callahan looks right at home with Steve Stamkos and if the Lightning are going to have an extended stay in these playoffs they will need someone to preform up to Stamkos level. Callahan is a former captain who is a prime candidate to step in and just make this series his own.
Prediction: Canadians in 7
Tampa Bay would win this series if we had a guarantee Ben Bishop would not only return but would have an impact. That isn't guaranteed so give the edge to the Habs who win the closest first round matchup.
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