Tampa Bay Lightning: Top 5 2015 Playoff Moments

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May 29, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning goalie

Ben Bishop

(30) defends the net against New York Rangers left wing

Rick Nash

(61) during the third period in game seven of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The Emergence of Ben Bishop

An afterthought in the world of elite netminders for many years, Ben Bishop burst onto the NHL scene during the 2013-14′ regular season. According to the Tampa Bay Lightning website, Bishop had a team record 37 wins to go with a 2.23 goals against average, .924 save percentage and five shutouts, making him an easy pick as one of the finalists for the Vezina Trophy given to the league’s best goaltender.

Unfortunately, his shot at the postseason ended cruelly when he injured his elbow making a diving save against the Toronto Maple Leafs mere days before the playoffs were to begin. He had also been dealing with a bad wrist which required offseason surgery so, while not ideal, the abbreviated season probably was in everyone’s best interests long term.

Finally back to 100 percent, Bishop broke his own record by notching 40 victories in the 2014-15′ season. Though lower than last seasons totals, his 2.32 GAA and .916 save percentage were respectable.

Then came the 2015 postseason. With no experience heading in, the tall Bishop elevated his game to a level that matched or exceeded his 6’7″ frame.

It began in Game 7 of Round One versus the Detroit Red Wings. With no score entering the final 20 minutes, Bishop faced an immense amount of pressure. He refused to flinch, allowing his teammates enough time to score while posting a shutout of his own.

A confidence boost to be sure, this was a turning point for Bishop and his mates on their quest to capturing the Prince of Wales Trophy and a spot in the Stanley Cup Finals.

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