Lightning may be running out of gas vs fresher Avalanche

DENVER (AP) — It’s no secret Tampa Bay has played more hockey over the past two years than any other team in the NHL.

That may finally be taking a toll on the two-time defending champs against the Colorado Avalanche, who took a much shorter route to the Stanley Cup Final. The Avalanche now lead the best-of-seven series 2-0 going into Game 3 Monday at Tampa Bay.

The Lightning have played 67 postseason games since Aug. 1, 2020. That is the most by one team over the span of three playoffs. Players and coach Jon Cooper refuse to use that as an excuse.

Speedy Colorado Avalanche zoom to 2-0 series lead over Bolts

DENVER (AP) — The fast-flying Colorado Avalanche have zoomed out to a 2-0 series lead over Tampa Bay in the Stanley Cup Final.

Colorado is clicking on all cylinders even with its star player Nathan MacKinnon yet to score in the final. It's hardly a concern. This is whirring team that comes at you from all directions and angles. They’ve scored at least seven goals four times in this playoff run, with the latest a 7-0 rout of the Lightning in Game 2.

The Avalanche are 7-0 on the road so far in the postseason.