MSL returns to Tampa Bay after exodus on verge of 1000 points (NYR at TBL 7:30PM)

Martin St. Louis looks for a happy return to TB. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Martin St. Louis looks for a happy return to TB. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

“I think it’s going to be special for me tomorrow to play here. It was 14 great years,” Marty St. Louis told reporters. “I grew up here pretty much. So to come back here and play here, it’s going to be special.”

GAME 21: NEW YORK RANGERS AT TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING, AMALIE ARENA 7:30 PM

Daily Faceoff’s Goalie Matchup

NYR at TBL via Daily Faceoff

NYR at TBL via Daily Faceoff

– Note click the Daily Faceoff link throughout the day for confirmed starters

NOTES: 

RANGERS TO WATCH

MSL

MSL

1. Martin St. Louis – Just 2 points shy of a 1000, we believe he gets it tonight. It will be an emotional return, but one he looks forward to.

2. Rick Nash – I feel silly throwing a guy’s name on here with 14 goals, but if the Rangers hope to beat Bishop more than once, Nash needs to be The Beast of Broadway.

3. Henrik Lundqvist – Although he has not been officially named the starter, a game of this magnitude will certainly warrant the two best goalies to face-off. I expect a fired up Lundqvist tonight.

EYE ON THE ENEMY

1. Ryan Callahan – Much like the last time they played each other, Cally will have extra zip in his legs. He will also be trying to make a statement to his hometown crowd that his days of being a Ranger are over.

2. Anton Stralman – He will play a prominent role in trying to keep the Rangers best players in check all night. Is he up to it? Thus far he sure seems to be what the Lightning has hoped and paid for.

3. Ben Bishop – He owns the Rangers, enough said.

FULLTILT FORECAST

Back at .500 with a 10-10 record. Time to get on top.

This will be a far better game than the debacle at MSG for the Blueshirts. I expect the Rangers to play one of their absolute best games of the season.

Marty St. Louis get his two points tonight with a goal and an assist, at least. The Rangers shutout streak will end, but not their winning streak.

NYR 4- TBL 1