Game #53

Anaheim Ducks @ Tampa Bay Lightning

Saturday, February 4th, 2016 4:00 PM PST

Amalie Arena

TV: PRIME, SUN

Radio: AM 830, AnaheimDucks.com

Your Enemy: Raw Charge

The Ducks look to regroup tonight against a depleted Lightning team after falling victim to Florida’s recent reinforcements last night. Despite Gibson’s 35 saves, the Ducks couldn’t slow down the return of Barkov and Huberdeau.

After leaving midway through the second period with a lower body injury last night, Sami Vatanen is still considered questionable for tonight’s matchup. This spells bad news for the Ducks if he’s not able to go, and even worse news if that means another dose of a Bieksa - Holzer pairing. As such, Shea Theodore has been recalled from San Diego.

The Ducks have faltered as of late, having lost three of their last five after starting last month 8-1-1. They’ve also lost the last four second half of back to back games. With an already depleted D core, the Ducks will need to dig a little deeper for extra energy against a notoriously fast Tampa Bay squad.

The Lightning desperately need to stop the bleeding having dropped six of their last 7 games. They’ve recalled Swiss native Joel Vermin for tonight’s game trying to shake things up a bit.

The Lightning look to avoid dropping four straight at home for the first time since 2014, and they have history on their side. For as much crap as we give the Flames, the Ducks haven’t won in regulation in Tampa since 2006. Certainly the absense of Steven Stamkos helps in this situation, but even without him in the past, the Lightning have always been an issue for the Ducks.

Tonight’s game will potentially be delayed a few minutes as the Lightning are holding a special “Heart Health Awareness” Night.

LETS GO DUCKS!!!