That trend continued against the Lightning. Arizona defended hard, played physically, limited the Lightning's time and space, and was structurally sound. Goaltender Antti Raanta only faced 20 shots and the Lightning generated only a handful of scoring chances all game.
So the Coyotes' solid performance had an impact on the outcome - and was a big reason why the Lightning looked out of synch for much of the night. But the Lightning's execution was slightly off, too. They had a few too many turnovers, particularly at the offensive blue line. Missed assignments in the defensive zone led to two of three Arizona goals. But most noticeable was the Lightning's inability to create pressure with extended offensive zone shifts. Too often they were "one-and-done" in the offensive zone. Again, Arizona's tight team defense was a factor, but the Lightning, who didn't put pucks in areas where they could use their cycle game, also bear responsibility.
Scoring goals hasn't been an issue this season for the Lightning. Neither has generating scoring chances. They've been an excellent five-on-five team all year (and own the best five-on-five goal ratio in the league). But in the last two games, they've managed just two goals - neither at even strength - and have not produced as many scoring chances as they usually do.
Next up is the showdown in Boston against the Bruins, who, in the last meeting between the clubs on March 17, became the only team to shut out the Lightning in a game this season. Obviously, the Lightning will need to be crisp in all aspects of their play.
Lightning Radio Big Moment of the Game (as selected by Phil Esposito):
Jakob Chychrun's second period PPG.
Lightning Radio Three Stars of the Game (as selected by Phil Esposito):
