Prague Game Marks First in Back-to-Back Series


No more exhibition games, no more experiments, no more try-outs, the Tampa Bay Lightning’s 16th season starts for real on Saturday against the New York Rangers.

The two teams will meet for two games in Prague, which will conclude the European swing for both clubs.

For the Lightning, the game marks the beginning of a season of promise, capped by many changes. New ownership, a new coaching staff, and many new faces on the ice. Not the least of which is Steven Stamkos, number one selection in this year’s entry draft, starting his pro career. At the other end of the spectrum, newly acquired Gary Roberts begins his 22nd career NHL season while Mark Recchi kicks off his 25th trip around the league.

The Lightning have already faced the Rangers twice in this year’s exhibition season, and have won both contests.

The second game in this back-to-back series will also be in Prague, on October 5th. After that, the Lightning return to the St. Pete Times Forum to prepare for their home opener on October 11th, vs. the Carolina Hurricanes.