Jon Cooper, the Tampa Bay Lightning coach, is looking forward to a break as his team heads home following narrow defeats in the first two games of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Florida Panthers.

After enduring another 3-2 overtime loss in Game 2, Cooper emphasized the need for his players to spend time with their families and recharge before Game 3. He believes the team has shown promise but needs to improve their performance.

Lightning vs Panthers

The series now moves to Tampa for the next two games, starting with Game 3 at Amalie Arena. The Lightning face the challenge of reversing their recent playoff struggles at home, having lost their last five playoff games at Amalie Arena, all by one-goal margins.

Captain Steven Stamkos remains optimistic, urging his teammates to focus solely on the upcoming game and take it one step at a time. Despite the 2-0 series deficit, Stamkos highlights the team’s past ability to overcome similar situations.

In preparation for Game 3, Coach Cooper considers lineup adjustments, possibly reintroducing veteran forward Conor Sheary. Cooper acknowledges the team’s resilience in the face of adversity and is confident in their ability to turn the series around.

While the Lightning have faced setbacks, they remain determined to harness their strengths and seize victory in the pivotal Game 3 matchup.