Tampa Bay at Carolina

The Tampa Bay Lightning came out ready to play in their opener, dispatching Washington easily, 6-3. They then shot themselves in the foot in their game vs. the Islanders, allowing seven power-play opportunities, and it kept the offense, which sparkled against Washington, from getting any momentum going. They did manage a 3-goal third period outburst, but the damage had already been done. This team looks ready to score and have had things going offensively. The Hurricanes' new-look offense with Jordan Staal, and Alexander Semin was grounded in the opener, scoring just one time, and it may take some time for them to get in sync. They also allowed 5 goals, and the Tampa Bay offense has looked great early. Getting this Carolina team early in the season before their new stars mesh with the rest of the team is a good spot for a hot offense. Take Tampa Bay.