The Backup Plan

For the first half of the game, Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Mike Smith didn’t have to work too hard against the defending Stanley Cup champs. However, for the final 30 minutes, Smith and his teammates deflected a barrage of Chicago Blackhawks shots.

Recording his first shutout of the season, the backup netminder saved 31 shots and the Lightning blocked another 21. Rookie coach Guy Boucher had a clear defensive gameplan that he was able to utilize after Vincent Lecavalier’s first period power play goal. With a slim 1-0 lead, the Lightning constantly attacked the pass receiver. Every time a Blackhawks defender made an initial pass through the neutral zone, two or three Lightning players were there to greet him.

Yet because of the Blackhawks’ quickness and slick stick handling, there were more than a few prime scoring chances. Marian Hossa, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews each attempted an unobstructed shot in the third period. Smith skillfully limited the rebounds, using legs, midsection and glove.

With just over four minutes remaining in the game, Hossa had a point blank shot from approximately 21 feet out. As Smith swallowed up the laser puck, Blackhawks fans saw the playoff race get a little too close for comfort.

Here’s a recap of the game.

Lowe-Scoring Opening Day

Opening Day was bookended by two pitching gems. As dominant and intimidating as Clayton Kershaw was in the nightcap, I’d like to recognize the all-around solid defensive performance of the Atlanta Braves.

Derek Lowe’s sinker was really moving and the cold, overcast weather helped the Braves shut out the Washington Nationals, 2-0. This was more than just some ground ball outs from the 37-year-old veteran, however.

The Braves defense was solid as usual, aided by some nifty picks by rookie Freddie Freeman at first base and a perfect Brian McCann throw to catch Rick Ankiel stealing in the 4th inning. More importantly for Braves fans, though, was the dominance of their bullpen. Manager Fredi Gonzalez has been a little unclear about how to use the young arms, but on Thursday it didn’t matter. Peter Moylan to Jonny Venters to Craig Kimbrel was a work of art. The final line for the Braves pitching staff: 9 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 9 K, and a ground ball/fly ball ratio of 12/5.

With Tommy Hanson taking the mound on Saturday, the Braves might not be craning their necks looking up at the Philadelphia Phillies as some expected.

Here’s a recap of the game.