For the first time since 2007, the Tampa Bay Lightning are headed back to the postseason. By virtue of their 2-1 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday night, a four-year long nightmare for the organization has come to an end, and the page can officially be turned on an old era.
Tampa Bay Lightning Clinch Playoff Berth With Win Over Penguins
The four year drought... was filled with all sorts of drama - from the sale of the team, to the horrendous 2007-08 season. 2008-09 was laughable and 2009-10 had the wheels fall off at crunch time.
It’s true, and really clear now that they’re officially in the postseason: Jeff Vinik, Steve Yzerman and Guy Boucher have completely changed the course of hockey in Tampa Bay.
Now, the only thing left to solve is which seed they’ll be, although it’s looking more and more like the fifth-seed is in their fate. Then again, the act of beating the four-seeded Penguins helps their chances at grabbing home ice advantage.











