Apr 29, 2022; Elmont, New York, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Pat Maroon (14) plays the puck from behind the net defended by New York Islanders defenseman Ryan Pulock (6) during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports
(Reuters) - The Tampa Bay Lightning enter the NHL playoffs chasing a rare three-peat as Stanley Cup champions while the Florida Panthers hope to put the finishing touches on what has been a dominant season.
The playoffs mark the most exciting time of year for hockey fans, a gruelling two-month tournament featuring 16 teams and four best-of-seven rounds that awards those on the winning team the right to have their names etched onto the silver trophy.