By Damian Cristodero, Times Staff Writer
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Bruin killer
If the Bruins never see Simon Gagne, right, again in the postseason, it will be too soon. Gagne had the winning goal and three points and was plus-4 on Saturday, and he has six goals in eight playoff games against Boston, including two winners last season for the Flyers. "What happened last year is behind," Gagne said. "I'm playing on a different team. Boston is a different team." The result, though, seems to be the same.
Number of the day
15-5 Combined playoff record of the Lightning and Bruins when they are outshot by opponents.
Put up your dukes
When Lightning D Marc-Andre Bergeron, left, fought Bruins C Rich Peverley at the end of the first period, it was his second NHL career fight (not including preseason) and first since April 5, 2003, for the Oilers vs. Calgary's Scott Nichol. "I felt like we were off a little bit and we needed some emotion, so why not give it a try," Bergeron said about why he went after Peverley and pretty much fought him to a draw. "It's going to put me also in the game and make me feel like I'm doing something."
Three stars
RYAN MALONE: The Lightning wing played a great all-around game. He sparked the first goal with a big hit on Bruins D Zdeno Chara and set up the winner after a steal in the neutral zone.
TEDDY PURCELL: The Lightning wing scored the team's first two goals as he continues to elevate his game in the playoffs.
MIKE SMITH: The Lightning goalie once again was strong in relief of Dwayne Roloson. He had 21 saves and shut out Boston in 42:02 of play.
Notable comeback
The Lightning came back from at least two goals down in the playoffs for the second time. The first: In 1996 it trailed the Flyers 3-1 in Game 3 of the first round and won 5-4 in overtime.
Quote to note
"He's a warrior. He pays the price in so many areas. We notice it every game and every shift he plays. He inspires the team."
Lightning coach Guy Boucher, on Ryan Malone (assist, five shots, three hits)
Tickets
Wednesday's Game 6 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa is sold out. Unused team tickets might be released that day. Check with the box office at (813) 301-6600 and Ticketmaster (outlets, ticketmaster.com, toll-free 1-800-745-3000).
The series
Tied 2-2
Game 1, Lightning 5, Bruins 2: Three goals in 1:25 of the first spark Lightning.
Game 2, Bruins 6, Lightning 5: Bruins score five in the second.
Game 3, Bruins 2, Lightning 0: Bruins prevail in tight defensive game.
Game 4, Lightning 5, Bruins 3: Lightning scores five unanswered goals.
Monday: at Boston, 8, Versus, 970-AM
Wednesday: at Tampa, 8, Versus, 620-AM
Friday: at Boston, 8, Versus, 970-AM*
* If necessary