The Tampa Bay Lightning were once again eliminated from playoff contention in the first round. This year, however, they were swept by their Florida rival, the Panthers, in only five games.
The Bolts' pilot ranted about how the league's calls were soft on goaltender interferences after the Lightning were denied numerous opportunities throughout their five playoff games. With nothing to lose, Cooper did not hold back and lost his cool:
After winning back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021, the flame no longer burns for the Lightning. With an aging core, Steven Stamkos, hitting free agency this summer, it may be time for a drastic change in Tampa Bay. After a stellar regular season, Nikita Kucherov is bound to be amongst the Art Ross nominees for league MVP. Could the Bolts capitalize on his value and use him to reset the franchise?
