Success has been the norm for the Tampa Bay Lightning and their fan base. They have made it to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of the last seven years. There were two Stanley Cup victories, three consecutive visits in the Finals, and a 60-40 record for the Lightning throughout that time. The organization’s formula has never included losing. Over the previous seven years, every loss has been a stepping stone on the road to the victories that are sure to come.
This season felt different, as any Lightning fan who followed the club attentively might tell you. The organization is currently being pursued by the weight of an impending dynasty’s demise, much like a dogged dog follows the mailman down the street. It makes no difference if the dog is chasing in Pittsburgh, Chicago, or Los Angeles; it has caught every mailman he has laid eyes on. He has already sampled the organization’s pants leg and is now focused on Tampa Bay. However, general manager Julien BriseBois is aware of his need for more.
This does not mean that BriseBois is prepared to give up just yet. He seems to think the Florida Panthers can win one more Stanley Cup before that annoying dog gets a hold of them and won’t let go, based on his statements and actions since the Lightning were ousted in April. Following his elimination, BriseBois reaffirmed his trust in head coach Jon Cooper, indicating that Cooper is still the best candidate for the position. To improve a lackluster and erratic defense, Ryan McDonagh is back with the club. In addition, the future of the organization is hanging in the balance this summer due to Steven Stamkos’ contract.
