Eastern Conference
Tampa Bay Lightning 5, Boston Bruins 2 -- The Lightning made a statement in the series opener, dominating play in the first period and winning their eighth straight playoff game. The goalie duel many predicted didn't exactly pan out as the Lightning struck early and often in the first period, scoring three goals in a 90 second span and putting the Bruins on edge for the remainder of the game. Sean Bergenheim continued his stellar playoff run with his eighth goal, and was quickly followed by scores from Teddy Purcell and Brett Clark.
Tim Thomas was excellent for the remainder of the game, but the damage had already been done. Lightning goalie Dwayne Roloson was again brilliant, stopping 31 of 33 shots as Tampa Bay coasted to take a 1-0 lead in the series and steal home ice advantage from the Bruins. Boston now faces an uphill climb against a Lightning team that looked incredibly sharp after a long layover between series.
Tampa Bay leads the series, 1-0.
Next Scheduled Game
San Jose Sharks at Vancouver Canucks, 8:00 p.m. EDT, on Versus -- The Western Conference Finals kicks off in Vancouver, as these two dynamic offenses collide in the first game in what should be a long and competitive series. The Canucks have the edge in goal, but the Sharks are deep with offensive talent and should be able to press Vancouver's blue line. The Canucks won three of four games between the two clubs during the regular season.