Prior to Game 5, Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Guy Boucher was mum about which goaltender he'd start. When it came down to it, he led everybody into believing that Dwayne Roloson would get the nod by not interrupting the game day routine.
Dwayne Roloson To Start Game 6 For Tampa Bay Lightning
As it turned out, Mike Smith got the start. The Lightning lost, but it wasn't Smith's fault, and now as we prepare for Game 6, another big question faced Boucher. Which goalie gets the crease this time?
Would it be Smith, the backup who held rank all season long through what some would call relative tumult in the Bolts’ crease, or would it be Roloson, the 41-year-old who’s never lost in an elimination game and who’s acquisition allowed the Lighnting to feel some level of comfort in goal this season?
Boucher has opted to go with the crafty veteran, according to reporters in Tampa Bay. There will be a lot written about this move: questions, support, etc. At the end of the day, it’s not about Roloson’s UFA future with the organization or about a vote of confidence in Smith. It’s about Boucher believing that Roloson gives his team the best chance to win a must-win game.
The coach isn’t just implying it this time. He’s saying it. Roloson is his guy, for at least one more game.
Read more on the Eastern Conference Final at our Lightning vs. Bruins series hub. Get local coverage on the Bruins at SB Nation Boston and Stanley Cup of Chowder. Get local coverage on the Lightning at Raw Charge and SB Nation Tampa Bay.
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