I've been watching the Lightning for a long time and I have to say I believe the team should be ashamed of that performance against the Panthers. Florida is not even on the same page as the Lightning as far as talent, so for Tampa Bay to get just 24 shots (four in the first period), allow two power play goals to the worst team in the league with the man advantage was unacceptable.

And it should be unacceptable to the team. I am really interested to see how they come out against the Red Wings. I know the previous post talked about how unfair the schedule is to the Lightning, and I still think so. But this is a game in which the team has got to muster itself. It does not want to be embarrassed at home, and given how good are the Wings, we know that can happen if Tampa bay shows up like it did against a Panthers team that was 1-5-1 coming in.

Really, this is on the players now. if you have reservations about the coaches, forget it for now. If you have doubts about personnel moves, put them out of your mind. This is mind-set now. The Lightning has the talent to compete. It has shown it. Perhaps on Thursday night we find out if they want to battle, skate and move their feet. And get some shots to the net.

It's a great test, a sixth game in nine nights against a fresh Detroit squad that's mad about Tuesday's loss. It's one of those backs-against-the-wall moments when character is called upon. It will be a great story if Tampa Bay answers. If not, it's another story entirely.