Two goals in two minutes is not the best way to start the second period. Goal number one came on the power play – the Thrashers’ powerplay – when Zach Bogosian was unable to hold the blueline, turned the puck over, and allowed Nate Thompson to zip directly to Ondrej Pavelec, beating him blocker side. Less than two minutes later, Dana Tyrell snapped a shot over Pavelec’s blocker. Three and a half minutes later, Steven Stamkos, from his patented spot to Pavelec’s left, tipped in a rebound of a Marty St. Louis shot, and that was all she wrote for Ondrej Pavelec.
The Lightning’s fourth goal came from Martin St. Louis, who was allowed to stand unchallenged by Dustin Byfuglien, who wasn’t apparently looking behind him (and down a foot). St. Louis shoved the puck in past Mannino to make it 4-0. The fifth goal was scored by Simone Gagne.
In fairness, the following players are out tonight:
Tobias Enstrom
Andrew Ladd
Jim Slater
Evander Kane
Chris Mason
Fredrik Modin was literally grabbed and thrown in at the last minute, so he’s basically like having half a player out.