That may be the only certainty surrounding Game 7 of the Eastern Conference finals between the Bruins and Lightning.
It’s been a series that has wiped out expectations. Goalies Tim Thomas and Dwayne Roloson have been inconsistent after dominant starts to the postseason. Two teams known for their defense have dabbled in pond hockey, racking up more goals than anyone planned.
It sets up a Game 7 nearly impossible to call.
“I’m not going to expect anything,” Lightning coach Guy Boucher said.
“Because every time we expect something the opposite happens. … I think both teams have tried to adapt to each other and surprise each other with what’s coming at them.
There is one other certainty. Somebody will be the hero. Someone will score the game-winning goal.
Our picks for the top candidate:
Tampa Bay: Simon Gagne
Playing at home, Boston will get the matchup they want, and all the Bruins’ attention will be on Martin St. Louis to make sure he doesn’t beat them like he did in Game 6. It’s the perfect opportunity for Gagne, who has three of his five playoff goals in this series, including the game-winner in Game 4.
“He’s very poised under pressure,” Boucher said of Gagne on Thursday. “Even for the big games, you don’t see any signs of nervousness. I’d say that’s his biggest asset.”
Boston: David Krejci
In Game 6, Krejci became the first Boston player since Cam Neely to register a hat trick in the playoffs, but his efforts were overshadowed by a loss. He has four game-winning goals this postseason, more than any other NHL player. After scoring just one goal in his first seven games of the playoffs, Krejci has nine in his last 10 but realizes the stakes are higher in Game 7.
“We know it’s going to be hard,” he said. “We’ve been here before so it’s nothing new for us. It’s going to be a battle tomorrow but I think we’re ready.”
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