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The Tampa Bay Lightning wrap up their homestand tonight against the Minnesota Wild, and on today's episode of Lightning Power Lunch, Dave Mishkin and Greg Linnelli preview the matchup, discuss the latest lineup news, and break down the changes the coaching staff is considering for a power play still searching for its first goal of the season.
Ed Encina joins the show to discuss Dennis Hildeby's first start as a member of the Lightning, why Tampa Bay is sticking with the 11-forward, 7-defenseman alignment, and what he's learned about Conor Geekie's tremendous growth and confidence heading into his third NHL season. Plus, a look at Victor Hedman's encouraging start, the impact of reducing his workload, and why the Lightning believe their defensive depth can be a major advantage all season long.
The guys also dive into the potential power play adjustments involving John Carlson and Charles-Édouard D'Astous, discuss the emergence of the Ilya Mikheyev-Pontus Holmberg-Zemgus Girgensons line, and debate the future contract outlook for Nikita Kucherov.
Topics
Lightning vs. Wild preview and Minnesota's challenging schedule
Dennis Hildeby gets his first start for Tampa Bay
Dominic James remains out and lineup notes
Ed Encina joins the show
Hildeby's opportunity and long-term upside
Why the Lightning continue using 11 forwards and 7 defensemen
Conor Geekie's growth, confidence and strong start
Victor Hedman's improving play and adjusted role
Hedman's physicality and impact on the team's identity
Power play changes featuring John Carlson and Charles-Édouard D'Astous
Why the Lightning believe the power play is trending in the right direction
Mikheyev, Holmberg and Girgensons continue to impress
Around the NHL: Slow starts and special teams struggles
Nikita Kucherov contract discussion and salary cap implications
Could Conor Geekie be headed for a breakout season?
Is Jon Cooper's early-season messaging any different this year?
Lightning defensive depth and D'Astous' future
Why Hildeby's start comes at the perfect time
Does the Lightning power play need a major overhaul?
Final thoughts and Wild game preview
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