The Tampa Bay Lightning were big favorites to reach the second round of the NHL playoffs but they encountered a brave Columbus Blue Jackets side that didn’t show any respect and managed to sweep the Lightning.
The Blue Jackets wrote history
The Columbus Blue Jackets have made the biggest surprise of the NHL playoffs thus far as they swept Tampa Bay Lightning, making the second round of the postseason for the first time in franchise history. The Blue Jackets wrapped up the series in style in front of their own fans.
For the first time in their history, the @BlueJacketsNHL are in the Second Round. #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/RakMnFF3zO
— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2019
Atkinson on a big win
Columbus Blue Jackets’ right winger Cam Atkinson played an important part in his team’s demolition of the Tampa Bay Lightning and described how he and his teammates felt when Artemi Panarin scored an empty net goal.
Absolute SCENES in Columbus last night! 🙌 #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/JnAKKCCpiZ
— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2019
Tampa Bay sets (negative) record
The Tampa Bay Lightning are the first team in NHL history to win the Presidents’ Trophy and get swept in the first round of a best-of-seven playoff series.
The Tampa Bay Lightning are the first team in NHL history to win the Presidents' Trophy and get swept in the first round of a best-of-seven playoff series. pic.twitter.com/IzCLChTu4U
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 17, 2019
The Islanders are cruising
Another underdog in the first round of the NHL playoffs, the New York Islanders, managed to sweep the Pittsburgh Penguins and reach the second round of the postseason for the first time in three years. The Islanders allowed just three goals in the last three games with Pittsburgh.
Back in the Second Round for the first time since 2016.
Congrats, @NYIslanders! #StanleyCup pic.twitter.com/WlAdpziutu
— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2019
Lamoriello discusses his first season with the organization
New York Islanders’ general manager Lou Lamoriello must be delighted with his team’s success in the opening round of the playoffs. Here you can see his thoughts on the organization and his first year with them.
New episode of NHL Executive Suite! @NYIslanders GM Lou Lamoriello discusses his first season with the organization, growing up as a young hockey fan and more! Listen ➡️ https://t.co/Qi3OmdioLP pic.twitter.com/hZogaPP7Hr
— NHL (@NHL) April 17, 2019
