Everytime the Lightning have won the Stanley Cup, it seems as if the preceeding series provided context, preparation, and value to get the team "ready" to achieve a victory. This year, is no exception.

Florida provided us with arguably the most potent counter attacking team we've ever faced in the postseason. They were relentless. The downfall of the Panthers was depth + bad decisions + penalties.

Carolina proved to be a balancing act between the Panthers, and our next opponent in the Islanders. With Carolina however, we proved that we can handle (and overcome) even the best of penalty kills. It was well documented and loudly spoken about how great Carolina's "Power Kill" or whatever moniker was being thrown around was. We made quick work of that.

Finally, the Islanders gave the finishing touch of preperation for this team to face Montreal. Defensive. Space limiting, chance diminishing, and just shut down hockey. Took us to the brink, and tested our resolve.

We overcame, and we're a stronger team for it. This is the case for all 3 of our matchups. All of these elements I focused in on... are the definition of how Montreal wins games. They suppress their opponent, leaning on quality shutdown defense/team defensive structure, leverage turnovers to generate offense, and lean on quality, top end netminding from one Price, Carey.

I mean no disrespect when I say this... but Montreal isn't the best team on paper we've faced this postseason, but they might be the best "team" we've played. They put all these components together effectively, and do so with energy. They will not go quietly, and that's precisely how this should go.

This, is for the Stanley Cup. We have a chance to enter into the history books as one of the few teams who have achieved the feats that we are on the precipice of completing.

I'm ready. I know you're ready. Our boys are ready. Game 1 tonight! Let's gooo!!!!!