Interim Lightning coach Rick Tocchet's first practice this morning was only 45 minutes, but it was very structured and high-energy. From breakouts to chalk talk, everything seemed organized, and you could tell the players felt the intensity, as some were left gasping for air at certain points.

Tocchet made it sound like these kinds of up-tempo workouts would be commonplace and become routine, and he hopes it could energize a group that has struggled with consistency.

Some on-ice changes you'll probably see under Tocchet are there will be shorter shifts (40 seconds or so), in hopes of more intensity per shift and heavy forechecking. 

As for the players, the few we got to talk to seemed to share the responsibility for Friday's firing of Barry Melrose. They said it's an unfortunate part of the business, and that the onus is on them now to spark a turnaround.

Said goaltender Olie Kolzig: "I guess it's easier to fire a coach than trade 20 guys. Obviously, we’re underachieving."

Said Marty St. Louis: "We're all responsible here for what's gone on…We have to look at ourselves in the mirror. Ask yourself if you're doing enough. I don’t think a lot of guys can say that right now."

As for other notes, Tocchet said the chances of Ryan Malone playing Sunday is "slim." He will make the trip but will likely get treatment.

For what it's worth, there were some different line combos at Saturday's practice.. Prospal was back with Lecavalier and St. Louis, Jokinen centered a line with Pettinger and Vrbata, and Stamkos centered a line with Roberts and Recchi.

For more on Tocchet's first day and looking ahead, check out Sunday's Times

- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com