When Bishop was forced to leave game two, twice, many speculated that he was experiencing some sort of bathroom emergency. I, on the other hand, believed the issue was more injury related, because he seemed to have trouble getting up after making a save on an earlier play. The team and his coach were extremely tight-lipped about his status, and other than Jason Garrison hinting that it wasn’t illness, we really have no idea what the problem was. The talk about Bishop’s availability has pretty much taken over this series. And when he started game three, all eyes were on his every move.
(John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports)
It didn’t take a rocket scientist to see that Bishop was laboring out on the ice. He cringed several times, and was slow to get up on many occasions. It seemed crazy that he was actually in net. But, injured or not, Bishop played really well, making 36 saves and securing a 2-1 series lead for Tampa. I know the goalie situation is going to get a lot of the focus, but how about these Lightning? They are proving to be one step ahead of the experienced Chicago Blackhawks, and their depth seems to be shining a little brighter [Sportsnet]. And what about the emergence of Victor Hedman [The Hockey News]. But did Chicago let one slip away? [Deadspin]
In other news…
The Oilers have re-signed a couple of players. [Oil on Whyte]. Do they need to trade their captain now? [Edmonton Journal]
Which goalie should Ottawa hang onto? [Last Word on Sports]
Prospect Zach Werenski may opt for the CHL. [Toronto Sun]
The Minnesota Wild may not be able to buyout goalie Nicklas Backstrom. [Star Tribune]
Is Mikko Koivu available for trade? [Hockey Feed]
It looks as though the Bruins will be parting ways with Carl Soderberg. [Today’s Slap Shot]. Could Vancouver be a landing spot for him? [Canucks Army]
(Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports)
The Toronto Marlies have hired a new head coach. [Globe and Mail]
Finnish prospect Mikko Rantanen is on the Maple Leafs’ radar. [The Leafs Nation]
The Red Wings have some decisions to make in terms of trades and draft picks. [Winging it in Motown]
Joe Thornton doesn’t want to go. Might be an issue in trying to trade him. [Today’s Slap Shot]
And finally, P.K Subban played a little street hockey. [Deadspin]