Lightning's Slump Tests Playoff Credentials

0:00NHL stories, making news on March 15th. The Teba Bay Lightning have hit a rough patch since the Olympic break and trade deadline. After a strong opening win, they've dropped seven of their last nine games, struggling to find their rhythm with just a month left in the regular season. Earlier this week, a poll from the Athletic Showed Experts still have high hopes. 56% of their NHL staff predict the Lightning as Stanley Cup final runner-up, with 8% picking them to win it all. They see a rematch loss to the Colorado Avalanche. Fans and analysts are giving them the benefit of the Dow for now, pointing to past comebacks like their 2021 Cup run after a slow finish. A bad week happens, but this skid tests their playoff credentials. Corey Perry has been a bright spot at 40 years old. In five games since joining, he scored two goals and added an assist, even dropping the gloves to spark the team amid offensive droughts. Meanwhile, defense remains a big worry with injuries piling up.

1:00Max Crosier is out for the season, and 35-year-old Victor Headman has looked off. They're often trailing early with no clear fix, but their offense keeps games close as they limp toward the playoffs. The Daily News Now is presented by our sponsor. Your favorite podcasts, music, or sleep sounds coming from your pillow. No earbuds, no distractions, just listen and relax. S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.