This is an 8* SPECIAL on the Lightning.

This has been a very interesting NHL Playoffs so far overall I think from both a fans perspective, and from a betting perspective as well.

The fact that the Lightning and the Rangers are in the Eastern Conference Finals isn't a huge shock though. Both teams have been among the best in the Eastern Conference throughout the regular season.

Tampa averages 3.48 goals per game this year, which ranks eighth overall, while allowing just 2.78, which ranks sixth.

New York averages just 3.05 goals per game, which ranks 17th, while allowing 2.49, which ranks second.

The Rangers needed seven tough games to advance past favored Carolina though, while Tampa has had plenty of time off after steamrolling the Panthers in four games in the last round.

For me it's as simple as the Lightning being the more rested team right now. Tampa needed seven games to get by Toronto, but it completely outmatched Florida, and that experience is going to continue to pay dividends here in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Rangers on the other hand are in unchartered territory and I say they're just completely out of gas right now.

I'm laying the reasonable price and rolling with the LIGHTNING.

Good luck, NP